Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is divided into three distinct stages, each carrying its own spiritual significance. The first ten days (Ashra) are marked by Allah’s mercy (Rahmah), while the second ten days are dedicated to seeking His forgiveness (Maghfirah).

As we journey through this transformative period, we are given an unparalleled opportunity to cleanse our hearts, seek divine pardon, and prepare ourselves for the last ten nights—home to Laylatul Qadr, the most blessed night in the year.

In this blog, we explore how to reap the immense rewards of the second Ashra of Ramadan and maximize our worship in the last ten nights, especially during Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power).

The Second Ashra: Seeking Allah’s Forgiveness (Maghfirah)

As we enter the second phase of Ramadan, Allah ﷻ opens the gates of forgiveness for those who sincerely seek it. The Quran reminds us of His infinite mercy:

“Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” – [Quran 39:53]

During these ten days, we should focus on repentance (Tawbah) and seeking Allah’s forgiveness for our past mistakes. True repentance involves:

Self-reflection: Acknowledging our shortcomings and sincerely regretting them.

Sincere Tawbah: Asking Allah ﷻ for forgiveness with a commitment to avoiding the same sins in the future.

Increased Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness): Consistently reciting Astaghfirullah throughout the day.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“One who repents from sin is like one who never sinned.” – [Ibn Majah]

A powerful du’a to seek forgiveness during this Ashra is:

أسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ رَبي مِنْ كُلِ ذَنبٍ وَأتُوبُ إلَيهِ

“I ask forgiveness of my sins from Allah who is my Lord and I turn towards Him.”

Recite this du’a in your morning and evening supplications, and particularly during moments when prayers are most accepted—such as the last third of the night, between the Adhan and Iqamah, and while fasting.

A muslim man in sujood (prostration)

The Last Ten Nights: The Pursuit of Laylatul Qadr

The final ten nights of Ramadan are the most sacred, as they hold Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, which is described in the Quran as:

“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” [Quran 97:3]

This means that any good deed performed on this night is rewarded as if it were performed consistently for over 83 years. SubhanAllah!

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and sincerity, shall have all their past sins forgiven.” – [Bukhari & Muslim]

How to Maximize the Rewards of Laylatul Qadr

Since the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, the Prophet ﷺ advised us to seek it on the odd nights of the last ten days (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights). Here’s how we can make the most of these sacred nights:

Engage in Abundant Du’a

One of the most recommended supplications for Laylatul Qadr is:

اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني

“O Allah, You are the Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.” – [Tirmidhi]

Use these nights to sincerely pray for yourself, your loved ones, the oppressed, and all of humanity.

Perform Extra Prayers (Tahajjud & Qiyam-ul-Layl)

Standing in prayer during Laylatul Qadr can lead to immense blessings. Make an effort to perform Tahajjud (night prayer) and recite the Quran with deep reflection. Even offering two extra Nafl (voluntary) rakats with sincerity can bring immense rewards.

Engage in Continuous Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)

Keep your tongue moist with dhikr by reciting:

SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)

Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)

Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)

La ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah)

Give Sadaqah (Charity) Generously

Charity given on Laylatul Qadr is multiplied beyond measure. Even a small act, such as feeding the hungry or donating to a charitable cause, can bring the reward of a lifetime of giving. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” – [Tirmidhi]

Read and Reflect on the Qur’an

Since Laylatul Qadr marks the night the Qur’an was revealed, take time to read and reflect on its verses. Even if you recite a few pages with sincerity, it holds great reward.

The Power of a Single Night

Allah ﷻ beautifully describes the importance of Laylatul Qadr in the Qur’an.

“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.” – [Quran 97:1-5]

On this night, Allah’s mercy and blessings descend upon the earth. The angels, led by Jibreel (Gabriel) AS, fill the heavens and earth with divine peace.

Since its exact date remains unknown, it’s best to worship throughout the last ten nights with full dedication.

Conclusion

Ramadan is a journey of spiritual renewal, and the second Ashra reminds us to seek Allah’s forgiveness with sincerity. As we approach the last ten nights, we should increase our devotion, prayers, and charity in pursuit of Laylatul Qadr, the most powerful night of the year.

May Allah ﷻ grant us the ability to repent sincerely, seek His mercy, and experience the immense blessings of Laylatul Qadr. May our prayers be accepted, and may we emerge from Ramadan spiritually renewed.

Ameen.