Dhul Hijjah is the final month in the Islamic calendar and holds immense significance, particularly the first ten days.
"By the dawn; And [by] the ten nights."
Quran 89:2
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." [Bukhari]
These days are a blessing from Allah SWT, not only for those who embark on the pilgrimage to the sacred land of Makkah to perform Hajj (May Allah grant us all the blessing of performing Hajj), but also for Muslims around the globe. We can all reap the benefits by filling these days with abundant good deeds and elevating our spirituality.
These days are a hidden treasure, a means to strengthen our connection with the Almighty Allah.
You can start by:
- Reciting the Holy Quran, the word of Allah.
- Engaging in Dhikr, such as saying "Alhamdulillah," "La ilaha illallah," and "Subhanallah."
- Performing extra Nawafil prayers, especially Tahajjud.
- Seeking forgiveness through Istighfar.
- Giving charity.
- Spreading kind words.
- Offering numerous prayers for yourself, family, friends, and all Muslims.
- Avoiding sins and repenting for any wrongdoing.
- And most importantly, do not forget to fast from the 1st to the 9th day of these blessed days.
The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the day of Arafah. It is recommended to fast on this day as narrated in the following Hadith:
The Prophet said: "Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past one and the coming one." [Muslim]
Arafah is the day when Allah SWT perfected His religion for all of us and completed His favor and blessings upon us.
"This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion." Quran 5:3