Introduction
The first ashra (first ten days) of Ramadan is known as the Ashra of Mercy (Rehmah). It is a time when Allah’s mercy descends abundantly, and the gates of paradise are opened wide. But how can we truly experience this mercy? The answer lies in connecting with the Quran—the very book that is the source of all guidance and mercy.
Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى says in the Quran:
“Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most just and right.”
(Surah Al-Isra, Verse 9)
The first ashra is the perfect time to begin your Quran journey with strong intentions and achievable goals. This guide will help you set realistic Quran reading targets, complete your first Juz (Para), and develop the beautiful practice of reflection (Tadabbur) on Allah’s words.
Why Set Quran Reading Goals for the First Ashra?
1. The Month of the Quran
Ramadan and the Quran are inseparably linked. Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى says:
“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 185)
The first ashra sets the tone for the entire month. Starting strong with Quran reading ensures that the remaining twenty days are built on a solid foundation.
2. Mercy Descends with Quran Recitation
The Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“No people gather in a house of the houses of Allah, reciting the Book of Allah and studying it among themselves, except that tranquility descends upon them, mercy envelops them, the angels surround them, and Allah mentions them among those with Him.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2699)
During the first ashra—the Ashra of Mercy—what better way to attract Allah’s mercy than through reciting His book?
3. Building Momentum
The first ten days create momentum for the rest of Ramadan. If you start strong with Quran reading, you will naturally continue through the second ashra (Forgiveness) and third ashra (Salvation from Hellfire).
Your Primary Goal: Complete the First Juz (Para) in 10 Days
What is a Juz (Para)?
The Quran is divided into 30 equal parts called Juz (plural: Ajza) or Para in Urdu/Hindi. Each Juz is approximately 20 pages long in a standard Quran.
Why Start with the First Juz?
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Manageable Target | 20 pages over 10 days = just 2 pages per day |
| Builds Confidence | Completing first Juz motivates you to continue |
| Spiritual Foundation | First Juz contains Surah Al-Fatihah and Surah Al-Baqarah’s beginning |
| Mercy Connection | First Juz discusses Allah’s mercy extensively |
Daily Breakdown for Completing First Juz
| Day | Pages to Read | Cumulative Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 2 pages (1-2) | 2 pages completed |
| Day 2 | 2 pages (3-4) | 4 pages completed |
| Day 3 | 2 pages (5-6) | 6 pages completed |
| Day 4 | 2 pages (7-8) | 8 pages completed |
| Day 5 | 2 pages (9-10) | 10 pages completed |
| Day 6 | 2 pages (11-12) | 12 pages completed |
| Day 7 | 2 pages (13-14) | 14 pages completed |
| Day 8 | 2 pages (15-16) | 16 pages completed |
| Day 9 | 2 pages (17-18) | 18 pages completed |
| Day 10 | 2 pages (19-20) | 20 pages completed ✅ |
Total: 20 pages = First Juz Completed! 🎉
Alternative Goals for Different Levels
Not everyone reads at the same pace. Here are alternative goals:
For Beginners (Learning to Read)
| Level | Daily Goal | 10-Day Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Arabic letters | 10-15 minutes daily | Recognize all letters with confidence |
| Reading slowly | 1 page per day | Complete 10 pages (half Juz) |
| Building fluency | 3-4 pages per day | Complete 30-40 pages (1.5 to 2 Juz) |
For Intermediate Readers
| Level | Daily Goal | 10-Day Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Comfortable reader | 2-3 pages daily | Complete 1 Juz |
| Good reader with Tajweed | 5 pages daily | Complete 2.5 Juz |
| Advanced reader | 1 Juz daily | Complete 10 Juz (1/3 of Quran) |
For Hafiz / Memorizers
| Goal Type | Daily Target | 10-Day Target |
|---|---|---|
| New memorization (Sabaq) | 3-5 lines | 1-2 pages memorized |
| Revision (Sabaqi) | 5-10 pages | 50-100 pages revised |
| Full revision (Manzil) | 1-2 Juz | 10-20 Juz revised |
The Gift of Tadabbur: Reflecting on the Verses
What is Tadabbur?
Tadabbur means deep reflection, contemplation, and pondering over the meaning of Quranic verses. It is not just reading the words, but allowing them to penetrate your heart.
Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى commands us:
“Then do they not reflect upon the Quran? If it had been from other than Allah, they would have found within it much contradiction.”
(Surah An-Nisa, Verse 82)
Why Tadabbur Matters in First Ashra
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Mercy Connection | Reflecting on verses about mercy deepens your experience of first ashra |
| Heartfelt Recitation | Understanding increases khushu (concentration) |
| Lasting Impact | Reflected verses stay in your heart longer |
| Actionable Guidance | Reflection leads to action and positive change |
Simple Tadabbur Tips for First Ashra
1. Read Translation Alongside Arabic
Don’t just recite Arabic without understanding. Keep a Quran with Urdu/English translation.
2. Focus on Key Themes in First Juz
The first Juz (Surah Al-Fatihah and beginning of Surah Al-Baqarah) contains beautiful themes:
| Surah/Verse | Theme for Reflection |
|---|---|
| Surah Al-Fatihah (1:1-7) | Allah’s mercy, guidance, and the straight path |
| Surah Al-Baqarah (2:1-5) | Qualities of the righteous who receive guidance |
| Surah Al-Baqarah (2:21-22) | Allah’s blessings and our purpose in worship |
| Surah Al-Baqarah (2:30-39) | Story of Adam and Allah’s endless mercy |
| Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152-157) | Patience and Allah’s presence with the patient |
3. One Verse, Deep Reflection
Instead of rushing through many verses, choose one verse daily and:
- Read its translation
- Read a brief Tafseer (commentary)
- Ask yourself: What is Allah telling me through this verse?
- How can I apply this in my life today?
4. Keep a Quran Reflection Journal
Create a simple table in your notebook:
| Day | Verse Read | Key Message | How to Apply Today |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Surah Fatihah (1:1) | Allah is Merciful | Start everything with Bismillah |
| Day 2 | Surah Baqarah (2:2) | Quran is guidance for righteous | Read with intention to improve |
| Day 3 | Surah Baqarah (2:21) | Worship Allah who created us | Pray with presence of heart |
Practical Tips for Starting Strong
1. Choose Your Best Time
Find the time when you are most alert and focused:
| Time | Advantage |
|---|---|
| After Fajr | Mind fresh, no distractions, blessed time |
| Before Iftar | Dua accepted, focused recitation |
| After Isha | Calm environment, before Tarawih |
| During Tahajjud | Most blessed time, deep connection |
2. Create a Dedicated Space
Set up a clean, quiet corner with:
- Quran and translation
- Prayer mat
- Notebook and pen
- Good lighting
- No phone distractions
3. Start Small, Stay Consistent
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“The most beloved of deeds to Allah are those that are most consistent, even if they are small.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6464)
Better to read 2 pages daily with reflection than 20 pages once and then stop.
4. Use Technology Wisely
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Quran apps | Read anytime, anywhere |
| Audio recitation | Improve Tajweed, listen while commuting |
| Translation apps | Understand meaning easily |
| Progress trackers | Stay motivated |
10-Day Quran Reading Tracker for First Ashra
Print or copy this table to track your progress:
| Day | Pages to Read | Completed? | Verse for Tadabbur | Reflection Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 2 pages (1-2) | ☐ | Surah Fatihah (1:1-7) | |
| Day 2 | 2 pages (3-4) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:1-5) | |
| Day 3 | 2 pages (5-6) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:21-22) | |
| Day 4 | 2 pages (7-8) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:30-35) | |
| Day 5 | 2 pages (9-10) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:36-39) | |
| Day 6 | 2 pages (11-12) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:43-46) | |
| Day 7 | 2 pages (13-14) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:62-66) | |
| Day 8 | 2 pages (15-16) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:74-77) | |
| Day 9 | 2 pages (17-18) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:83-86) | |
| Day 10 | 2 pages (19-20) | ☐ | Surah Baqarah (2:97-101) |
Final Check: ☐ I have completed the first Juz! 🎉
Inspiring Stories: Those Who Started Strong
Story 1: The Busy Mother
Umm Abdullah, a mother of three young children, thought she would never find time to read Quran in Ramadan. She set a small goal: read 1 page after Fajr while her children slept. By day 10, she had completed 10 pages. By the end of Ramadan, she had finished 3 Juz!
Lesson: Start small, stay consistent.
Story 2: The Revert’s Journey
Ahmed, who embraced Islam just six months before Ramadan, could barely read Arabic. He set a goal: learn 5 new letters daily and practice reciting short surahs. By the end of first ashra, he could read Surah Al-Fatihah fluently.
Lesson: Your goal should match your level. Progress, not perfection.
Story 3: The Hafiz’s Revision
Bilal memorized the Quran five years ago but had forgotten much. He committed to revising 2 Juz daily during first ashra. By day 10, he had revised 20 Juz and regained confidence.
Lesson: First ashra is perfect for revision and strengthening.
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Lack of time | Wake up 15 minutes earlier for Fajr |
| Difficulty understanding | Read translation alongside Arabic |
| Lack of concentration | Start with 5 minutes of sincere dua |
| Feeling overwhelmed | Break into smaller goals (2 pages daily) |
| Forgetting to read | Set phone alarm, keep Quran visible |
| No motivation | Remember: First ashra is mercy season! |
Dua for Starting Quran Reading
Before beginning your Quran recitation, recite this dua:
Arabic:
رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِي صَدْرِي وَيَسِّرْ لِي أَمْرِي
Transliteration:
Rabbish rahli sadri wa yassir li amri
Translation:
“My Lord, expand for me my chest and ease for me my task.”
(Surah Taha, Verses 25-26)
Summary: Your First Ashra Quran Action Plan
Goal 1: Set Your Target
- Beginner: 1 page daily → 10 pages in 10 days
- Intermediate: 2 pages daily → 1 Juz in 10 days
- Advanced: 5+ pages daily → 2.5+ Juz in 10 days
Goal 2: Read with Translation
- Choose one verse daily for deep reflection
- Keep a journal for your reflections
- Ask: How does this verse apply to my life?
Goal 3: Create a Routine
- Fixed time (preferably after Fajr)
- Dedicated Quran space
- No distractions
Goal 4: Track Your Progress
- Use the tracker table above
- Celebrate small wins
- Adjust goals if needed
Goal 5: Make Dua for Acceptance
After completing your daily recitation, ask Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى to accept your efforts and grant you mercy in this blessed ashra.
Prayer for Completion
O Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى, Lord of the worlds, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. We ask You by Your mercy that encompasses all things to bless us in this first ashra of Ramadan. Help us to recite Your Book with understanding, to reflect on Your verses with sincerity, and to implement Your guidance in our lives.
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
“Our Lord, give us in this world good, and in the Hereafter good, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 201)Ameen, Yaa Rabbil Aalameen.
Also Read:
[Ramadan First Ashra Dua and Ramadan First 10 Days Checklist] – Complete mercy guide with Rabbighfir warham dua and free interactive tracker.
Share Your Goal
Comment below: What is your Quran reading goal for this first ashra?
- Complete 1 Juz
- Complete 2 Juz
- Complete 5 Juz
- Complete 10 Juz
- Memorize 1 page
- Other: _________
Let’s inspire each other!
