The Significance of the Second Ashrah of Ramadan

The reason for this division is so that Muslims can grow spiritually. 

• The first Ashra is of mercy. 

• In the second Ashra, Muslims seek forgiveness from Allah Almighty. 

• The third Ashra is for preparing Muslims for Judgement Day through reflection and sincerity. 

These 10 days of Ramadan are like a call to action. They motivate us to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. By understanding these ashraat, all Muslims can deepen their worship in the holy month of Ramadan. 

Transitioning from Mercy to Forgiveness

The shift from the first to the second Ashra marks a deeper spiritual commitment. After seeking mercy, Muslims focus on personal growth. Key practices include:

• Increase istighfar (supplications for forgiveness) daily.

• Review past actions and ask Allah for cleansing from sins.

• Blend gratitude for mercy with humility in seeking forgiveness.

Dua for the Second Ashra 

The special dua for the second Ashra is; 

أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهَ رَبِّي مِنْ كُلِّ ذَنْبٍ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ

Transliteration: Astaghfirullah Rabbi min kulli dhambin wa atubu ilaih
English Translation: “I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, from every sin and I repent to Him.”

Ways to Seek Forgiveness During the Second Ashra

1. Sincere Repentance (Taubah)

Sincere remorse creates the path to ask Allah for pardon. It consists of specific features for sincere repentance. Sincere Taubah is the way to ask for Allah’s forgiveness. It consists of the following elements; 

1. You acknowledge that you have committed a sin 

2. You feel remorse and regret for committing it 

3. You decide never to engage in wrongful behavior again

4. You pray and make sincere dua to Allah to forgive you 

2. Increased Worship and Ibadah

It is highly rewarding to engage in extra acts of worship during these 10 days. You can do so by;

• Performing additional nawafil such as Tahajjud. There is a very high reward for people who offer Tahajjud. One should not miss it in Ramadan and seek forgiveness after this namaz as much as they can. 

• Reciting more Quran is another way to increase worship. Try to read it with Tarjama and Tafseer so you understand the meaning behind it. 

• Making Constant Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) 

3. Giving Charity (Sadaqah and Zakat) 

What’s a better way to seek Allah’s forgiveness than helping the less fortunate? 

Helping needy people is known as one of the best ways to earn Allah's blessings. The Prophet (PBUH) said:

Performing acts of charity cancels out sins similarly how water puts out fires. (Tirmidhi)

It doesn’t matter how much you give to people, it only matters that you try to help people in the best capacity you can. If your intention is pure, Allah will reward you.  

You can help people by;

• Donating money or food to those who show up at our doorstep 

• Providing Iftar to those who are fasting 

• Giving zakat (obligatory)

4. Strengthening Relationships and Forgiving Others

Allah extends his blessings through his mercy towards every person who displays compassion for others. People should use this time to repair damaged bonds, ask for forgiveness if they have done anything wrong, and let go of grudges. 

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

"Be merciful to others, and you will receive mercy. Forgive others, and Allah will forgive you." (Musnad Ahmad)

Conclusion

The Second Ashra of Ramadan is a golden chance for all believers to ask for forgiveness, make amends for past errors, and strengthen their faith. Through sincere repentance, increased acts of worship, charity, and good deeds, one can be sure that they fully benefit from this blessed time.

May Allah enable us to ask His forgiveness, cleanse our hearts, and be in the last Ashra with a reinvigorated sense of commitment. Ameen!