How to Maximize Rewards in the First 10 Days of Ramadan

 However, the first 10 days of Ramadan, also known as the first ashra of Ramadan are particularly special as they set the tone for the rest of the month. The first Ashra is called the days of mercy where Muslims seek Allah’s mercy through praying, forgiving others, and charity. Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

“When the month of Ramadan begins, the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.” Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1899

In this blog, we will discuss how we can maximize rewards in the first 10 days and build a deeper connection with Allah. 

1. Understanding the Significance of the First 10 Days

Ramadan is traditionally divided into three parts: the first ten days of mercy, the middle ten days of forgiveness, and the final ten days of salvation. The first ten days, known as the Days of Mercy, are a time when Allah’s mercy and blessings are especially abundant. These days offer a unique opportunity to seek Allah’s mercy by engaging in acts of worship, charity, and good deeds. During this period, Muslims are encouraged to focus on increasing their spiritual practices to gain Allah’s favor, which can set a positive momentum for the rest of the month.

Maximizing rewards in the first 10 days helps to purify the heart, build consistency, and develop a strong foundation of faith that can continue through the entire month.

2. Strengthening Your Connection with Allah

One of the ways to maximize rewards in the holy month of Ramadan is by building a deep connection with Allah. When you are sincere in your prayers and your intentions are pure, Allah rewards you more than you can imagine. Everything that you do should be done to seek Allah’s pleasure. This sincerity turns everyday actions into acts of worship. 

One way to build a deep connection with Allah is through salah and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). Offering Tahajud and Duha is highly rewarding so Muslims should not miss these prayers, especially in the first 10 days of Ramadan. Don’t consider offering your salah as a task rather make sure your heart is fully immersed in the worship of Allah so He is pleased with you and rewards you.

3. Increasing Recitation and Reflection on the Qur’an

Ramadan is the month of the Qur'an, and there is no better time to delve into the holy words of Allah. The Qur'an is a source of guidance, comfort, and healing. Spend additional time reading and reflecting on the Qur'an during the first 10 days of Ramadan. Make achievable goals like reading a Juz (a section of the Qur'an) a day or concentrating on particular surahs.

It's not about memorizing the words, but about reflecting on and thinking about the meanings. Listen to tafseer e quraan to enhance your knowledge. When you recite with reflection, the rewards are much more, and you make your heart open to the knowledge that Allah has given.

4. Engaging in Sincere Du’a (Supplication)

Du'a or supplication is perhaps the most efficacious action of worship. During Ramadan, particularly in the initial 10 days, sincerely dua for mercy, direction, and grace. Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the breaking of the fast)  are particularly auspicious times for making dua, as they are filled with spiritual significance.

Write down your duas, and make them specific to your own needs and desires. You can request mercy, forgiveness, and strength to uphold your faith during Ramadan. Du'a is a personal dialogue with Allah, and these prayers are not only acts of worship but also means of strengthening your relationship with Him.

5.  Practicing Generosity and Charity (Sadaqah)

Charity is among the most satisfying acts during Ramadan. The first 10 days present a wonderful chance for you to exercise kindness and raise your level of generosity. Sadaqah (charity) is not just about donating money; it can include offering food, clothes, or time to people in need. Every small act of kindness counts, and Allah rewards these efforts generously throughout Ramadan.

Particularly, Sadaqah Jariyah can result in rewards that last even after your death. Sadaqah Jariyah takes the form of supporting education, building wells, or assisting a long-term philanthropic initiative. As you seek to help those in need, you earn rewards that multiply throughout the month..

6. Controlling the Tongue and Strengthening Character

Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it’s also about controlling negative behaviors. During the first 10 days of Ramadan, take special care to avoid gossip, lying, or backbiting (ghibah). This is the time to purify your character and avoid any actions that would diminish the rewards of fasting.

Instead, focus on practicing patience, kindness, and gratitude. When you control your tongue and speak only good words, your actions will reflect the purity of your intentions. Encourage others to do good, spread positivity, and remind yourself of the importance of staying humble and grateful throughout this blessed month.

7. Fasting with Awareness and Purpose

Fasting in Ramadan goes beyond refraining from food and drink. The true essence of fasting is to develop self-discipline and spiritual purification. Make a conscious effort to fast with awareness of Allah’s presence. Purify your intentions before every fast, focusing solely on seeking Allah’s pleasure. Use the fast as an opportunity to refrain not only from physical sustenance but also from negative behaviors, such as anger and impatience.

The first 10 days are an excellent time to reflect on the spiritual benefits of fasting and its role in transforming you into a better version of yourself.

8. Building a Routine for Consistency

Ramadan is a month of consistency in worship. To make the most of the first 10 days, create a structured daily routine that includes time for prayer, Qur’an recitation, dhikr, charity, and reflection. Set clear goals for yourself and track your progress, whether it’s through a journal or an app designed for Ramadan.

By having a clear plan, you are more likely to stay on track and build momentum. Consistency is key, and by setting small, achievable goals in the first 10 days, you can ensure that your devotion to Allah remains strong throughout the entire month.

Conclusion

The first 10 days of Ramadan are a precious opportunity to maximize rewards and set the spiritual tone for the entire month. By focusing on mercy, increasing acts of worship, and engaging in good deeds, you can experience significant spiritual growth and earn Allah’s blessings. Stay consistent, involve your family, and remember that every small effort counts in the eyes of Allah. May this Ramadan bring peace, mercy, and guidance to you and your loved ones.