Muslims view Dhul Hijjah as one of the holiest months in the Islamic lunar calendar. It is the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, marking the end of the year. The holy month of Dhul Hijjah contains profound spiritual value as Muslims perform various acts of worship and devote themselves to reflection while showing religious devotion.
This month is primarily celebrated for Hajj – one of the five pillars of Islam, which brings Muslims from all over the world to perform the holy pilgrimage at Mecca.
This sacred month of Dhul Hijjah also affords the believers of Islam worldwide the chance to perform fasting, pray and make charitable donations and virtuous actions, especially during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. During these ten sacred days Muslims find the opportunity to collect extensive blessings and approach Allah (SWT) better than at any other time.
In this detailed blog, we will discuss the meaning and importance of Dhul Hijjah. We will also be covering other important aspects of this sacred month like the importance of fasting, duas to be recited and so on. Without any further ado, let’s begin!
What is the Meaning of Dhul Hijjah?
The name “Dhul Hijjah” translates to “The Month of Hajj” in Arabic. The name Dhul Hijjah is derived from Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims must conduct at least once during their life if their health and wealth permit them to do so.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family stood as commendable examples of obedience, sacrifice and submission during the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah, which to this day, remains a month to express devotion and renewal of faith for Muslims globally.
What are the 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are amongst the most blessed times of the year. The significance of these days has been emphasised by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in numerous hadiths. For example;
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days” (Sahih Bukhari)
During these ten days, Muslims should amplify their rituals of worship, seek forgiveness and perform religious acts. The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah stands out as the “Day of Arafah” because, during this day, the Muslim pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafah while performing Hajj to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
There are also increased rewards for fasting during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said;
“One fast during these days is equal to the fasting of one complete year, and the worship of one night during this period is equal to the worship in the Laylatul Qadr” (Tirmidhi).
The whole month of Dhul Hijjah is sacred with many important events taking place during the first ten days. The annual holy pilgrimage of Hajj, along with Eid ul-Adha and the day of Arafah, marks the most important religious activities taking place during the month.
What are the Importance of Dhul Hijjah?
As mentioned earlier, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are often referred to as the best ten days of the year. They are considered to be a second chance after Ramadan to renew one’s faith and indulge in increased acts of worship and devotion. The month of Dhul Hijjah is also important for the following reasons;
- Hajj Pilgrimage – The most important event taking place in this month is the holy pilgrimage of Hajj. Dhul Hijjah is almost synonymous with Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars. During this time, millions of muslims from all over the world gather in the holy city of Mecca to perform this sacred ritual.
- Day of Arafah – This blessed day is a part of the rituals performed within the holy pilgrimage of Hajj. On the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims gather together on Mount Arafah in complete devotion and supplication to Allah (SWT).
- Eid al-Adha – The tenth day of Dhul Hijjah marks the festival of sacrifice known as Eid al-Adha as Muslims commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s act of sacrificing his son Ismail (AS). The celebration among Muslims involves conducting the sacrifice of an animal while distributing the meat to support the poor.
- Spiritual Renewal – During the initial ten days, Muslims have the opportunity to strengthen their religious connection, seek forgiveness and increase noble deeds.
- Increased Rewards – During the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah, it is believed that the rewards for good deeds are multiplied.
Also Read:- What is Riaz -ul – Jannah
Dhul Hijjah Fasting
During the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, it is highly recommended to fast, especially on the 9th day – the day of Arafah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year” (Sahih Muslim)
Although fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah is not obligatory, it is Sunnah practice that results in immense spiritual benefits. By fasting during Dhul Hijjah, and especially on the day of Arafah, you are not only sacrificing food, drink and sleep, but you are truly securing the benefits of these blessed days.
Benefits of Fasting During the 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah
The significance of fasting during this month is immense. Here are some of the benefits of fasting during the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah;
- Forgiveness of Sins – Through fasting during the first 9 days of this sacred month, particularly during the Day of Arafah, one obtains forgiveness for their sins.
- Increased Rewards – The rewards for good deeds like fasting and supplication are multiplied during this blessed month.
- Spiritual Purification – The act of fasting aids Muslims in purifying their spirits by building self-control and increasing acts of worship while deepening their bond with the almighty.
- Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – Fasting during these days is a sunnah of Propher Muhammad (PBUH).
“Whatever the Messenger has given you – take, and what he has forbidden you – refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.”
Quran | Surah Al-Hasr: 59:7
Duas for Dhul Hijjah
Making various dua according to the occasion during the month of Dhul Hijjah is highly recommended. Here are some of the most important duas to recite;
General Dua for Forgiveness – “Astaghfir ullah-alladhi la ilaha illa Huwal-Haiyul-Qayyumu, wa atubu ilaihi”
(I seek the forgiveness of Allah, the Magnificent, besides whom there is no deity, the Living, the Sustainer, and I repent to Him)
Dua for the Day of Arafah – “La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ala kulli shay’in qadir”
(There is no deity except Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs sovereignty and all praise, and He is over all things omnipotent)
Dua for Increased Good Deeds – “Allaahumma ‘innee as’aluka fi’lal-khayraat wa tarkal-munkaraat.”
(O Allah, I ask You for the ability to do good deeds and to abandon evil deeds)
Final Thoughts
Dhul Hijjah stands as a sacred month which provides Muslims with access to deepen their devotion to Allah by performing spiritual acts of worship and sacrifice and showing their devotion.
All through the initial ten days of the month, believers experience increased blessings where they have a chance to seek forgiveness, increase good deeds, reap multiplied rewards and renew their faith by deepening their connection to the amighty.
Muslims are supposed to make the most of this holy time through prayers, fasting, charitable acts and making dua. By doing so, they can reap the rewards of this blessed month and strengthen their connection with Allah (SWT).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do you spend 10 days in Dhul Hijjah?
- The initial 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are considered to be the most important days of this sacred month. Here is how you can spend these days;
- Increase Worship
- Fast during the first nine days
- Give to Charity
- Perform Good Deeds
- Make Dua
- Celebrate Eid al-Adha
Q. When is Dhul Hijjah?
A. According to the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhul Hijjah is the twelfth month of the year. The timing of this month varies each year in the Gregorian calendar as the Islamic calendar is based on moon cycles.
Q. When is Dhul Hijjah 2025?
A. In 2025, Dhul Hijjah is predicted to start on May 27th and end around June 25th, based on moon sighting. The very important day of Arafah is predicted to occur on June 4th, while Eid al-Adha follows it on June 5th, according to current estimations
Q. Can I fast on Eid al-Adha?
A. Muslims are forbidden from fasting during Eid al-Adha. It is a day of celebration, and everyone is encouraged to enjoy the festivities, perform the Eid prayer, and partake in the sacrificial meal.
Q. Is it mandatory to fast during Dhul Hijjah?
A. While fasting for the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah is not obligatory as with the Ramadan days it is strongly suggested according to Islamic teachings because these days are highly blessed days during the entire year. The practice of fasting during these days is also a sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).