As the moon rises higher in the blessed month of Ramadan, a gentle transformation takes place in the hearts of believers. The early days of mercy give way to the middle 10 days — known as the Second Ashra — the Days of Forgiveness (Maghfirah).
These days carry a profound invitation: to seek Allah’s forgiveness with humility, to cleanse the soul of past mistakes, and to emerge renewed in faith and purpose. Across homes, mosques, and hearts, Muslims everywhere turn inward — reflecting, repenting, and reconnecting with their Creator.
The Spiritual Essence of the Second Ashra
Forgiveness lies at the heart of Islam, and during these 10 days, it becomes the believer’s central pursuit. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The middle ten days of Ramadan are for forgiveness from Allah.”
This reminder is both comforting and awakening. It calls upon every believer to look inward, to admit shortcomings, and to turn to Allah — who is Al-Ghafoor, the Most Forgiving, and Ar-Raheem, the Most Merciful.
In this Ashra, forgiveness is not just about words whispered in prayer; it is about transformation — a conscious effort to become better, kinder, and more grateful.
The Practice of Repentance (Tawbah)
Repentance, or Tawbah, is one of the most beautiful gifts Allah has bestowed upon humanity. It is the bridge between sin and salvation, between regret and peace.
In these middle 10 days, Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness sincerely. True repentance involves four steps:
- Recognising the sin — acknowledging what was wrong.
- Feeling remorse — genuinely regretting the mistake.
- Asking forgiveness — turning to Allah in humility.
- Resolving not to repeat it — striving for change.
When done sincerely, repentance washes the heart clean — leaving behind clarity, peace, and closeness to Allah.
In Azad Kashmir, where hardship often shapes daily life, repentance also manifests as gratitude. Families who receive support — a food parcel, clean water, or medicine — often raise their hands in prayer, asking forgiveness not for what they lack, but for moments of impatience or doubt. Their humility is a lesson in faith and resilience.
Deepening Worship Through Taraweeh and Qur’an
During the middle 10 days, many Muslims strengthen their nightly worship through Taraweeh prayers — a cherished Ramadan tradition that rejuvenates the soul. These prayers, performed after Isha, offer moments of serenity and reflection under the soft glow of mosque lights.
For those reciting or listening to the Qur’an, the experience becomes deeply intimate. Each verse brings guidance and reassurance — a reminder that forgiveness is always within reach. As believers stand shoulder to shoulder, reciting words revealed more than 1,400 years ago, they feel both humbled and elevated — united in their longing for Allah’s mercy.
For those in the UK who cannot attend nightly prayers, this spirit continues at home — through Qur’an recitation, dua, and giving. Every act of worship, big or small, draws one closer to divine forgiveness.
