Ramadan Second Ashra Dua: Seeking Forgiveness in the Middle Ten Days of Blessings

 

Introduction

Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is divided into three Ashras (ten-day segments), each holding unique spiritual significance. The second Ashra, spanning from the 11th to the 20th of Ramadan, is known as the Ashra of Forgiveness (Maghfirah). It is during these blessed days that Muslims fervently seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for their past sins while striving to purify their souls.

In this article, we will explore the importance of the second Ashra, its significance, recommended duas, and how one can maximize their worship during these crucial ten days.

The Significance of the Second Ashra

While the first Ashra focuses on mercy, the second Ashra emphasizes the necessity of seeking forgiveness (Maghfirah). Allah’s doors of mercy remain wide open, and He promises to forgive those who sincerely repent. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

The second Ashra serves as a bridge between the mercy-filled first ten days and the salvation-focused final Ashra. It is a time to reflect on our mistakes, seek Allah’s pardon, and cleanse our hearts before the final days of Ramadan approach.

Dua for the Second Ashra (Maghfirah)

A powerful and well-known dua for seeking forgiveness during this Ashra is:

اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْلِي ذُنُوبِي يَا غَفُورُ يَا رَحِيمُ

Transliteration: Allahumma ighfir li dhunubi ya Ghafooru ya Raheem.

Translation: O Allah, forgive my sins, O Most Forgiving, O Most Merciful.

This supplication embodies the essence of the second Ashra, where we seek Allah’s pardon, recognizing our shortcomings, and committing to betterment in our spiritual journey.

Ways to Maximize Worship in the Second Ashra

To truly benefit from these sacred days, one should increase their acts of devotion and implement the following practices:

1. Sincere Repentance (Tawbah)

Ramadan is a time to return to Allah with sincerity. Repentance requires deep reflection and a firm commitment to abstain from sinful acts. Follow these steps for a sincere repentance:

  • Acknowledge your sins and mistakes.

  • Feel genuine regret for past wrongdoings.

  • Make a firm intention never to repeat the sins.

  • Seek Allah’s forgiveness with sincerity.

  • Compensate for past sins by doing good deeds.

2. Increase Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness)

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) constantly sought forgiveness, even though he was sinless. We should follow his example by frequently reciting:

أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهَ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ

Transliteration: Astaghfirullah wa atubu ilayh.

Translation: I seek forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance.

Reciting this 100 times daily can help cleanse one’s heart and soul.

3. Engage in Extra Prayers (Nafl Salah)

Apart from the obligatory five daily prayers, offering extra voluntary prayers such as Tahajjud (night prayer) and Salat-ul-Tawbah (prayer of repentance) can bring immense blessings.

4. Recite and Reflect on the Quran

The Quran was revealed during Ramadan, making it the ideal time to engage in its recitation and reflection. Aim to read more than usual and ponder upon its meanings. Surah Al-Mulk and Surah Al-Ikhlas are particularly recommended for seeking Allah’s mercy.

5. Give in Charity (Sadaqah & Zakat)

Charity is a means of erasing sins and gaining immense rewards. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Charity extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)

Donate to those in need, support orphanages, and feed the hungry to attain Allah’s forgiveness.

6. Improve Character and Relationships

Ramadan is not just about individual worship but also about being a better person. Make amends with those you may have wronged, seek forgiveness from others, and be kind and patient in your interactions.

7. Perform I’tikaf (Spiritual Seclusion)

If possible, dedicate time for I’tikaf in the masjid, especially as the third Ashra approaches. This practice allows one to disconnect from worldly distractions and fully immerse in worship.

The Connection Between Forgiveness and Salvation

The second Ashra leads into the third Ashra, which is focused on salvation from Hellfire. Seeking forgiveness now paves the way for divine mercy in the final ten days, ensuring a spiritually enriching Ramadan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“Allah is more pleased with the repentance of a servant than one who finds his lost camel in a desert.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Allah’s mercy is boundless, and He readily forgives those who turn to Him sincerely.

Conclusion

The second Ashra of Ramadan is a golden opportunity for believers to seek Allah’s forgiveness and cleanse their hearts of sins. By making sincere repentance, increasing acts of worship, and strengthening our connection with Allah, we can ensure that we are truly benefiting from these blessed days.

Let us strive to make the most of this Ashra, continuously seeking Maghfirah (forgiveness) and preparing ourselves for the final days of Ramadan. May Allah accept our prayers, forgive our sins, and grant us the strength to continue our spiritual journey. Ameen!

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