Dua for First 10 Days of Ramadan | Seek Allah’s Mercy

Ramadan is a month divided into three distinct phases, each carrying its own divine virtues. The first ten days are known as the days of Rahmah (Mercy), a time when Allah’s compassion and kindness are showered upon believers in abundance.

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) described Ramadan as follows:

“It (Ramadan) is the month, the first part of which brings Allah’s Mercy, the middle of which brings Allah’s forgiveness, and the last part of which brings emancipation from the Hellfire.” (Baihaqi, Shu'ab al-Iman)

This narration emphasizes that the initial days of Ramadan are an opportunity to immerse oneself in divine mercy. It is a period when hearts are softened, prayers are readily accepted, and the gates of divine benevolence are open wide. Seeking Allah’s mercy through dua, good deeds, and sincere repentance becomes paramount in this phase.

The Recommended Dua for the First 10 Days

One of the most well-known supplications for the first ten days of Ramadan is:

اللهمَّ ارْحَمْنِي
"Allahumma arhamni."
(O Allah, have mercy upon me.)

This short yet profound dua encapsulates the essence of the first ten days. It is a heartfelt plea for Allah’s mercy, which encompasses all aspects of life—spiritual, emotional, and physical.

Another comprehensive supplication frequently recited is:

اللهمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَعَافِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي
"Allahummaghfir li warhamni, wahdini, wa‘afini, warzuqni."
(O Allah, forgive me, have mercy upon me, guide me, grant me well-being, and provide for me.) (Muslim 2697)

This dua encompasses all essential aspects of a believer’s needs—seeking mercy, forgiveness, guidance, health, and sustenance. It aligns perfectly with the divine attributes emphasized in the first ten days of Ramadan.

Practical Ways to Maximize the First 10 Days

Simply reciting a dua is not enough; one must also cultivate a mindset and lifestyle that welcomes Allah’s mercy. Here are key ways to make the most of these blessed days:

1. Increase in Acts of Compassion and Charity

Mercy is best sought by embodying it. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy upon you." (Tirmidhi 1924)

During these first ten days, small acts of kindness—feeding the hungry, helping the needy, forgiving others—become means of attracting divine mercy.

2. Engaging in Extra Prayers and Quran Recitation

The Quran was revealed as an ultimate mercy to humanity. Increasing recitation, understanding, and reflection upon its verses during Ramadan invites divine blessings. Additionally, extra voluntary prayers (Nafl) and the night prayers (Taraweeh) are powerful ways to draw closer to Allah.

3. Developing a Habit of Constant Supplication

Dua is one of the most powerful ways to seek Allah’s mercy. Beyond the recommended supplications, believers should pour out their hearts in private prayers, seeking forgiveness and divine grace. The Prophet (peace be upon him) assured:

"Your Lord is Most Generous and Shy. If His servant raises his hands to Him, He feels shy to return them empty." (Tirmidhi 3556)

Ramadan is an invitation to seek, and in these first ten days, one must fervently ask for Allah’s endless mercy.