The End of Ramadan First Ashra: A time for Reflection and Renewal

We have made transition into the next phase of Ramadan, called Ashra e Maghfirat. However, we should not forget of what we have been through in the first Ashra. It is essential for spiritual accomplishments to reflect on how we spent the ten days of divine mercy, where the doors of the heaven are wide open, and the blessings of Allah Almighty shower upon those who repent, worship, and engage in good deeds. 

The main Questions before us at the End of the First Ashra:

The first Ashra of Ramadan is like a foundation for the rest of the month, even the entire year. Therefore, reflecting on the concluding period is must for success in the second Ashra, and so on. As such, it is incumbent upon us to pause and reflect on this sacred phase by holding ourselves accountable while asking ourselves: 

1. Have we sincerely sought the mercy of Allah through prayer and repentance? 
2. Have we shown mercy and kindness to our family, friends, and other less fortunate?
3. Have we made an effort to strengthen our relationship with the holy Quran and increase our acts of worship?

Reflecting on Ramadan First Ashra Prepare Us for the Next Phase:

Reflection on these first ten days of Ramadan is important for us in many respects. It is a period of divine mercy, where the believers can seek the compassion of Allah and engage in acts of kindness to deepen their spiritual connection through prayer and fasting. It allows them to assess their spiritual progress and prepare them for the next phase by carrying the spirit of mercy and the lessons thereof forward, as the end of the Ashra of Mercy does not mean that Allah’s mercy ceases. His mercy is boundless and continues through Ramadan and even beyond it. However, this period serves as a compelling reminder that we must internalize the essence of mercy in our daily lives as such:

· Show Mercy to Others: Just as we seek Allah’s mercy, we must also be merciful to others. Forgiveness, patience, and kindness should define our interactions.

· Continue Acts of Worship: The momentum of increased prayers, Quran recitation, and charity should not stop. Instead, it should intensify as we move toward the next Ashra.

· Seek Lifelong Mercy: While these ten days emphasize mercy, our efforts to seek Allah’s forgiveness and compassion should continue throughout our lives.

Duas for the first Ashra:

‌وَقُل رَّبِّ اغْفِرْ وَارْحَمْ وَأَنتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِينَ

‌“O! My Lord forgives and have Mercy and You are the Best of Merciful” [Quran 23:118]

يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ أَسْتَغيثُ

Oh Everliving, The Everlasting, I seek Your help through Your mercy.

اللهم ارحمني يا ارحم الراحمين

"O Allah, have mercy on me, O Most Merciful of the merciful."

During this period, the Muslims recite one or all of these duas. The supplications remind them that Allah's mercy is vast and all-encompassing no matter how many mistakes they have made.

Conclusion:

The end of the Ashra of Mercy marks not only a transition in Ramadan, but it is also an opportunity for renewal. It is an appropriate time to take stock of our spiritual progress, continue our acts of devotion, and prepare for the deeper self-purification that lies ahead. May Allah Almighty’s mercy remain with us throughout Ramadan and beyond, guiding us toward righteousness and peace. Let us step into the next phase of Ramadan with hearts full of hope, humility, and a renewed commitment to seeking Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.