Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds a special place in our Deen. It's a time filled with immense barakah and opportunities for us to draw closer to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى). Let's explore the blessings of Dhul Hijjah, from the first 10 days to Yawmul Arafah, Yawmul Eid, and the Days of Tashreeq.
The First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are considered some of the most blessed days in our Islamic calendar. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days" (Bukhari).
Why Are These Days Special?
- Increased Ibadah: During these days, we should increase our Salah, Dhikr, and other acts of worship.
- Qurbani: We perform the act of Qurbani, remembering the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام) and his son Ismail (عليه السلام).
- Hajj: These days coincide with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the pillars of our Deen, undertaken by millions of our brothers and sisters.
Tips for Maximizing the First 10 Days:
- Fasting: It's highly recommended to fast during these days, especially on the 9th, which is the Day of Arafah.
- Dhikr: Frequently say "SubhanAllah," "Alhamdulillah," "Allahu Akbar," and "La ilaha illallah."
- Sadaqah: Give in charity, as it's greatly rewarded during these blessed days.
Yawmul Arafah (The Day of Arafah)
Yawmul Arafah, the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, is one of the most significant days for us. On this day, Hujjaj gather on the plain of Arafah, making dua and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
Significance of Yawmul Arafah:
- Day of Forgiveness: It's a day when Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) forgives sins and frees people from the Hellfire.
- Hajj Completion: Standing at Arafah is the pinnacle of Hajj. Without it, Hajj is incomplete.
- Fasting for Non-Hujjaj: Those not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year" (Muslim).
Yawmul Eid (Eid al-Adha)
Yawmul Eid, or Eid al-Adha, is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. It's known as the "Festival of Sacrifice" and honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (عليه السلام) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى).
Celebrating Eid al-Adha:
- Qurbani: We perform the sacrifice of an animal and distribute the meat to family, friends, and those in need.
- Eid Salah: We gather for a special Salah and Khutbah.
- Celebration: It's a time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving gifts.
The Days of Tashreeq
The Days of Tashreeq are the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. These days follow Eid al-Adha and are marked by continued acts of worship.
What Are the Days of Tashreeq?
- Extended Celebration: We continue to celebrate and engage in acts of worship.
- Takbeer: We recite the Takbeer after each Salah: "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Walillahil Hamd."
- Qurbani Extension: If we haven't performed Qurbani on the 10th, it can still be done during these days.
Dhul Hijjah as a Sacred Month
Dhul Hijjah is one of the four sacred months in Islam, as mentioned in the Quran: "Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred" (Quran 9:36).
Why Is Dhul Hijjah Sacred?
- Prohibition of Fighting: Engaging in warfare is prohibited, emphasizing peace and reflection.
- Increased Worship: We're encouraged to increase our acts of worship and refrain from sinful behavior.
- Historical Significance: Many significant events in our history occurred during this month, including the completion of the Hajj by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Final Thoughts
Dhul Hijjah is a month filled with profound importance in our Deen. From the first 10 days to Yawmul Arafah and Eid al-Adha, it's a time for us to deepen our Iman and strengthen our relationship with Allah (سبحانه وتعالى). Taking advantage of Dhul Hijjah allows us to seek Allah’s mercy and blessings in abundance.
