Ramadan is divided into three Ashras (ten‑day segments), each with a distinct spiritual focus. The first Ashra (days 1–10) is called Ashra‑e‑Rahmah, meaning the Ten Days of Mercy. During this period, Muslims intensify their worship through fasting, prayer, charity, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). Dhikr in the first Ashra is especially powerful, as it aligns with the theme of seeking Allah’s mercy and blessings.
This blog follows E‑E‑A‑T principles (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), offering authentic duas, recommended dhikr practices, and personal reflections.
What Is Dhikr?
- Definition: Dhikr means “remembrance” and refers to reciting phrases that glorify Allah.
- Purpose: To keep the heart connected to Allah, purify the soul, and strengthen faith.
- Forms: Verbal recitation, silent meditation, or reflection on Allah’s attributes.
The First Ashra: Mercy (Rahmah)
- Theme: Seeking Allah’s mercy and compassion.
- Spiritual Goal: To begin Ramadan with humility, gratitude, and closeness to Allah.
- Practice: Reciting mercy‑focused duas and dhikr throughout the day.
Recommended Dhikr for the First 10 Days of Ramadan
1. Core Dua of Mercy
Arabic: يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ أَسْتَغِيثُ
Transliteration: Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum, bi rahmatika astaghees
Translation: “O Everliving, O Everlasting, I seek Your mercy.”
This dua reflects the essence of the first Ashra—asking Allah for His boundless mercy.
2. Daily Dhikr Phrases
- SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)
Repeating these phrases daily keeps the heart engaged in remembrance.
3. Qur’anic Verses for Mercy
- “My mercy encompasses all things.” (Qur’an 7:156)
- “And My mercy embraces all things, so I will decree it for those who fear Me.” (Qur’an 7:156)
Reflecting on these verses during dhikr deepens spiritual awareness.
How to Incorporate Dhikr in Daily Routine
- Suhoor: Begin with Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum to seek strength and mercy.
- During the Fast: Recite SubhanAllah and Alhamdulillah silently while working or resting.
- Iftar: Break the fast with dates and recite duas of gratitude.
- Taraweeh & Qiyam: Use night prayers to repeat mercy‑focused dhikr.
- Charity: Pair dhikr with acts of kindness—feeding the poor, donating essentials, or helping neighbors.
Tips
- Practical Tip: Keep a tasbeeh (prayer beads) handy to recite dhikr throughout the day.
- Family Practice: Encourage children to memorize short mercy duas—it builds habit and connection.
- Community Sharing: Organize group dhikr sessions in mosques or homes during the first Ashra.
- Digital Tools: Use Islamic apps to set reminders for daily dhikr.
Check out: Dua for the First 10 Days of Ramadan – Ashra of Mercy Guide
Conclusion
The first 10 days of Ramadan (Ashra of Mercy) are about seeking Allah’s compassion and blessings. Dhikr during this period—whether through Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum, Qur’anic verses, or daily phrases like SubhanAllah—helps believers begin Ramadan with humility and spiritual focus. By combining dhikr with fasting, charity, and reflection, the first Ashra becomes a gateway to mercy and sets the foundation for forgiveness and salvation in the later Ashras.

I am Disha Sharma the founder and writer of Great Indian Festival with a passion for storytelling and a dedication to sharing knowledge, I create content that informs, inspires, and connects with readers. My writing reflects creativity, clarity, and a commitment to delivering valuable insights across topics that matter.