What is Dhul Hijjah?
The First Ten days of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar, are considered the best ten days of the year for Muslims, even more so than the last ten days of Ramadan. Indeed, Sunan Ibn Majah states that ‘there are no days in which virtuous acts are more precious to Allah than these ten days.'
On the Day of Arafah, the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah 632, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) delivered his final sermon on Mount Arafat, and it was on this day that Allah (SWT) completed His favor and perfected the religion of Islam. Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is performed by millions of Muslims worldwide during this time.
Although we may not be able to perform Hajj this year, there are still plenty of ways to reap the rewards of these blessed ten days by engaging in voluntary fasting, worship, charitable giving, and offering Qurbani.
These ten days offer another opportunity to accumulate tremendous rewards, have our iniquities forgiven, and reach holiness, Insha Allah.
In a month of risen spirituality, we witness two grand occasions – all in affection to Allah (SWT). In addition to Hajj, Dhul Hijjah also marks Eid-Al-Adha, one of the holiest days on the Islamic calendar. On this day, every one of us, who is capable, offers Qurbani, just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) did in dedication to Allah (SWT) and to support vulnerable communities in need.
WHY IS DHUL HIJJAH IMPORTANT?
Within Islam, several verses and ahadith highlight the Benefits of Dhul Hijjah and its first ten days as the holiest days of the year.
In the Quran, Allah (SWT) promises an assurance by these first ten days by stating:
'By the morning and by the ten-night.' (Al-Fajr 89:1-2)
When Allah (SWT), the creator of the universe and everything in it, swears an oath by something, it shows how important and beneficial they are to us as His creations.
Correspondingly, on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, the Day of Arafah, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) acquired this verse:
'This day I have perfected for you your religion and concluded My blessing upon you and have authorized for you Islam as religion.' (Quran 5:3)