Introduction: The Islamic calendar is adorned with sacred months, and among them, the month of Dhul Hijjah holds a significant place. This blessed month, which marks the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, brings with it a multitude of virtues and opportunities for spiritual growth. Particularly, the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah hold immense significance in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the virtues of these remarkable days and explore how they can enrich our lives.
The Meaning of Dhul Hijjah
The word "Dhul Hijjah" translates to "Month of Pilgrimage." During this month, Muslims perform Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam. Hajj involves traveling to Makkah in Saudi Arabia to fulfill this religious obligation. Every Muslim who is of age and physically, financially, and spiritually able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
However, even for Muslims not performing Hajj, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah offer numerous ways to benefit spiritually. Here are ten actions anyone can undertake during this blessed period to maximize their rewards.
Fasting the First 9 Days of Dhul Hijjah
Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah is a Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. Fasting is one of the best acts of worship, as reported by the Prophet ﷺ, where Allah says, “All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except fasting, which is for Me and I shall reward (the fasting person) for it” (Sahih Al-Bukhari).
Even if one cannot fast all nine days, fasting on the 9th day, the Day of Arafah, brings immense rewards. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah absolves the sins for two years, the previous year and the coming year” (Sahih Muslim).
Increasing Daily Prayers (Salah)
During these blessed days, perfecting and increasing the practice of Salah is essential. If you haven’t been praying the five obligatory prayers (Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha) on time, now is the time to start. Praying together with friends and family is highly rewarded, as the Prophet ﷺ said, “Salat in congregation is twenty-seven times more meritorious than a Salat performed individually” (Bukhari and Muslim).
Additionally, taking this time to start praying Sunnah and Nafl (voluntary) prayers and incorporating Tahajjud (night prayer) can bring further blessings.
Divine Favor and Reward: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are described as the best and most blessed days of the year. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." Engaging in acts of worship and good deeds during this period holds immense significance and brings forth abundant rewards from the Divine.
Day of Arafah: The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, known as the Day of Arafah, stands as the pinnacle of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. While pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafah, Muslims around the world fast, supplicate, and engage in acts of worship. The Day of Arafah is a moment of intense mercy and forgiveness, as it is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year."
Voluntary Fasting: Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, especially the Day of Arafah, is highly recommended. These fasts offer a unique opportunity to seek Allah's pleasure and draw closer to Him. It is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijjah)."
Dhikr (Remembering Allah SWT)
Making Dhikr is a powerful act of worship that can be done anytime. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized reciting Tahleel, Takbeer, and Tahmeed during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, saying, “There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days. So recite a great deal of tahleel, takbeer, and tahmeed during them” (Ahmad).
The meanings are as follows:
- Tahmeed: Al-hamdu Lillah (All praises be to God)
- Tahleel: Laa ilaha ill-Allah (There is no god but Allah)
- Tasbeeh: Subhaan-Allah (Glory be to God)
Charity and Good Deeds: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah present an ideal opportunity to engage in acts of charity and goodness. Muslims are encouraged to give in charity, whether it be financial assistance, helping the less fortunate, or simply being kind and generous to others. These acts of benevolence hold immense rewards and help purify the soul.
Increased Prayers and Recitation of the Qur'an: Devoting oneself to extra prayers, including the night prayers (Tahajjud) and the sunnah prayers, brings immense spiritual rewards. Moreover, reciting and reflecting upon the Qur'an during these blessed days allows Muslims to strengthen their relationship with Allah and seek guidance from His words.
Hajj and Its Spiritual Lessons: For those fortunate enough to perform the pilgrimage of Hajj during these days, it is a journey of a lifetime. Hajj is a profound spiritual experience that reinforces the unity of Muslims, purifies the soul, and instills a deep sense of humility and submission to Allah. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate purpose of life and the transient nature of worldly pursuits.
Sacrifice and Eid-ul-Adha: The 10th day of Dhul Hijjah marks the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. This day commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim as (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, as an act of obedience to Allah. Muslims around the world participate in the ritual sacrifice of an animal, symbolizing their willingness to submit to Allah's commands. This act of sacrifice teaches humility, gratitude, and the importance of selflessness.
Celebrating Eid
Eid al-Adha is a celebration filled with joy, blessings, and connection with loved ones. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah. Follow the Sunnah acts of Eid, including taking ghusl (bath), putting on perfume, and performing the Eid prayer.
These first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a golden opportunity for Muslims to enhance their spirituality and secure immense rewards. By engaging in these recommended acts of worship, believers can make the most of this blessed period.
Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah provide a prime opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah. Muslims are encouraged to reflect upon their actions, seek forgiveness for their shortcomings, and make sincere efforts to rectify their behavior. Repentance during these days holds great significance and allows for spiritual purification and renewal.
Increased Supplication and Du'a: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are a time of heightened spirituality, during which Muslims are encouraged to engage in abundant supplication and du'a (personal prayers). These days are blessed with an atmosphere of mercy and acceptance, making it an ideal time to beseech Allah for guidance, blessings, and forgiveness. It is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "The best of supplications is the supplication on the Day of Arafah."
Strengthening Family and Community Bonds: The period of Dhul Hijjah, including the first 10 days, encourages Muslims to strengthen their family and community bonds. It is a time when families come together for acts of worship, such as congregational prayers and the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations. Engaging in acts of kindness, visiting relatives, and extending support to the community fosters a sense of unity, love, and compassion.
Reflection and Contemplation: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah serve as a valuable opportunity for self-reflection and contemplation. Muslims are encouraged to reflect upon their purpose in life, their relationship with Allah, and their journey towards self-improvement. Taking time for introspection, evaluating one's actions, and setting spiritual goals for the upcoming year can lead to personal growth and increased mindfulness.
Spreading the Message of Islam: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah present an opportune time for Muslims to share the beauty and teachings of Islam with others. By embodying the values of Islam in our words and actions, we can positively impact those around us. Engaging in dialogue, dispelling misconceptions, and inviting others to explore the principles of Islam are acts of virtue during these blessed days.
Conclusion: The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah encompass a multitude of virtues that can profoundly impact our spiritual journey. By embracing acts of worship, repentance, charity, supplication, and reflection, we can reap the immense rewards and blessings offered during this sacred time. Let us utilize this opportunity to draw closer to Allah, strengthen our faith, and strive for righteousness in all aspects of our lives.
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah offer a priceless opportunity for Muslims to deepen their faith, seek forgiveness, and earn abundant rewards. By engaging in acts of worship, such as fasting, remembrance of Allah, charity, and extra prayers, we can rejuvenate our souls and strengthen our connection with the Divine. Everyone from Hikmah Boutique pray to Allah (swt) to allow all of us to seize the virtues of these blessed days, and may they serve as a reminder to Worship Him Alone and follow the blessed footsteps of Prophet Muhammad(pbuh) for positive change and spiritual growth in our lives.