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The month of Dhul Hijjah is one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar, marking a time of increased spirituality and devotion to Allah (SWT).

This sacred month witnesses two of Islam's most significant events: the Hajj and Eid ul-Adha. Many might not know that the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the best days of the year, even surpassing the days of Ramadan in virtue.

The pilgrimage to Mecca, one of Islam's five pillars, occurs this month. Muslims worldwide gather to perform the rites of Hajj, culminating in the Day of Arafah.

This festival, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismael (AS). It is a time for Muslims to perform Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, to help and provide for those in need.

After Ramadan, we might feel we could have done more, and the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah offer another opportunity to achieve this.

According to scholars, the days Allah swears by in Surah Al-Fajr (89:1-2) are the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah,

"By the dawn; And [by] the ten nights."

Consider these Acts of Worship

• Fasting:

  • The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Fasting the day of Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past and the coming."(Muslim)

• Remembrance and Prayer:

  • Re-establish your connection with your Creator.

• Charity and Good Deeds:

  • Giving charity, honoring parents, maintaining family ties, and other righteous deeds are highly encouraged. This is also a time to pay Zakat and Sadaqah, helping those in need.

Perform an animal sacrifice to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion and provide for the needy. Ensure the sacrifice is done after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah.

For those intending to perform Qurbani, it is recommended that they avoid cutting hair and nails from the start of Dhul Hijjah until after the sacrifice.

Dhul Hijjah is a sacred month loved by Allah. It offers immense rewards for those who engage in righteous deeds and worship.

Whether through fasting, prayer, charity, or remembrance, every act of devotion brings us closer to Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

Let us embrace Dhul Hijjah's blessings, follow the Prophets'ﷺ example, and strive to make the most of these ten best days.