Ramadan is traditionally divided into how many Ashras (ten-day periods)?

The correct answer is Three. The holy month of Ramadan consists of 29 or 30 days and is traditionally divided into three Ashras, each lasting approximately ten days. Each Ashra holds a distinct spiritual focus and significance.

The Three Ashras of Ramadan

• First Ashra (Days 1–10) — Mercy (Rahmah): The first ten days are dedicated to seeking Allah's mercy. Muslims intensify their prayers and supplications, asking for divine compassion and forgiveness.
• Second Ashra (Days 11–20) — Forgiveness (Maghfirah): The middle ten days focus on seeking forgiveness for past sins. Believers are encouraged to engage in sincere repentance (Tawbah) and seek Allah's pardon.
• Third Ashra (Days 21–30) — Salvation from Hellfire (Nijat): The final ten days are devoted to seeking refuge from the fire of Hell. This period includes Laylat al‑Qadr (the Night of Power), which is better than a thousand months. Many Muslims increase their spiritual devotion, including I'tikaf (seclusion in the mosque).
• Why Not Other Numbers?: The division into three is a tradition based on the hadith that describes Ramadan's beginning as mercy, its middle as forgiveness, and its end as emancipation from Hell. There are not one, two, or four Ashras.

Thus, Ramadan is traditionally divided into three Ashras (ten-day periods).