First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah: Virtues, Worship & Blessings
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the most sacred and blessed period in the entire Islamic calendar. These sacred days hold unparalleled blessings, offering every believer a golden chance to multiply their good deeds and draw closer to Allah SWT. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized their exceptional status, declaring that righteous actions performed during this period are more beloved to Allah than deeds done at any other time of the year.
This comprehensive guide will explore the spiritual significance, recommended acts of worship, and practical ways to maximize blessings during this holy period. Whether you’re preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage, planning your Qurbani sacrifice, or seeking to strengthen your connection with Allah through fasting and prayer, you’ll discover everything needed to make these precious days truly transformative for your faith journey.
Understanding the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah and Their Sacred Importance
Dhul Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holding exceptional importance among Muslims worldwide. The Islamic lunar calendar holds profound significance for Muslims around the globe, marking periods of worship, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage. This blessed month serves as the season of Hajj pilgrimage and stands among the four sacred months designated by Allah SWT.
Allah Subhanu Wa Ta’Ala has designated Dhul Hijjah among the four most honored and sanctified months in the Islamic calendar. The month derives its name from the Arabic word “Hijjah,” meaning pilgrimage, as millions of Muslims travel to Makkah during this period to fulfill their religious obligation. The spiritual atmosphere during this time creates an unmatched opportunity for believers to strengthen their relationship with their Creator.
What Makes the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah Exceptionally Virtuous?
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah hold extraordinary status in Islamic tradition, surpassing even the blessed days of Ramadan in virtue. In the Quran, Allah SWT swears an oath by these first 10 days, as told in Surah Al-Fajr saying: “By the dawn and by the ten nights.” When the Almighty swears by something, it signifies tremendous importance and benefit for humanity.
When the Almighty Creator swears by something in the Holy Quran, it signifies tremendous importance and immense benefit for mankind as His beloved creation. This divine emphasis highlights why Muslims should prioritize worship and righteous deeds during this sacred window of time.
Spiritual Significance and Rewards
During the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims have the unique opportunity to engage in the most significant and rewarding acts of worship throughout the entire year. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged his companions to increase their devotion during this period, promising immense rewards from Allah SWT.
The primary reason these blessed days stand distinguished in excellence is the remarkable convergence of Islam’s greatest acts of worship within this single period, including salawat (prayers), siyam (fasting), sadaqah (charity), and the Hajj pilgrimage, salawat (prayers), siyam (fasting), sadaqah (charity) and the Hajj (pilgrimage).” This unique combination makes these days unparalleled in spiritual opportunity.
Recommended Acts of Worship During These Blessed Days
Fasting and Its Virtues
Fasting holds tremendous merit during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, particularly on the ninth day known as Yawm al-Arafah. Muslims who are unable to perform Hajj can still earn tremendous rewards by observing fast on this blessed day. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ promised that fasting on Yawm al-Arafah wipes away the sins committed in the previous year and protects against sins in the upcoming year.
Muslims who cannot perform Hajj should strive to fast during the first nine days, with special emphasis on Arafah. This practice demonstrates devotion while earning forgiveness that spans two full years of sins.
Yawm al-Arafah: The Most Magnificent Day of the Entire Year
Just as Laylatul Qadr holds the distinction of being the most precious night during Ramadan, the Day of Arafah carries the honor of being the most magnificent and rewarding day throughout the entire Islamic year. On this remarkable day, pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafah, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
On this remarkable day, millions of Hajj pilgrims assemble on the sacred plain of Arafah near Makkah, raising their hands in heartfelt supplication and seeking divine forgiveness. According to a hadith narrated by Ayesha (RA), the Prophet ﷺ confirmed that Allah SWT liberates more souls from the Hellfire on the Day of Arafah than on any other day of the year.
Essential Good Deeds to Maximize Blessings
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah provide believers with multiple pathways to earn rewards:
- Increase recitation of Quran and engage in deep reflection upon its meanings
- Perform abundant dhikr including SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and La ilaha illallah
- Give generously in charity to support vulnerable communities and those in need
- Strengthen family ties and maintain excellent relationships with relatives
- Seek sincere repentance and ask Allah for forgiveness of all sins
Hajj Pilgrimage: The Fifth Pillar of Islam
From the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims from all around the world come together in Makkah to perform Hajj. This sacred journey represents the ultimate act of submission to Allah SWT during these blessed days.
The Prophet ﷺ beautifully stated that performing Hajj and Umrah purifies a believer from sins committed between these pilgrimages, and whoever completes an accepted Hajj receives nothing less than Paradise as their ultimate reward. For those blessed with the physical ability and financial means, undertaking this sacred journey remains the most virtuous deed during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah.
Qurbani: Commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s Sacrifice
The act of Qurbani on Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail in complete obedience to Allah’s command. The act of Qurbani commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim AS to sacrifice his son Ismail AS in obedience to Allah’s command. It is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah to offer a sacrifice and distribute the meat among the poor, family, and friends.
This beautiful tradition teaches Muslims the essence of sacrifice, submission, and generosity while providing nutritious food to underprivileged families worldwide.
Conclusion
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah offer Muslims an extraordinary opportunity to draw closer to Allah SWT and earn immense spiritual rewards. Through fasting, increased prayer, charitable giving, dhikr, and sincere repentance, believers can maximize the blessings of this sacred period. The Day of Arafah stands as the pinnacle of mercy and forgiveness, while Qurbani on Eid al-Adha embodies the spirit of sacrifice and devotion. Whether performing Hajj pilgrimage or worshipping from home, these blessed days provide a second chance after Ramadan to strengthen your faith and seek divine forgiveness. Make every moment count during this holy time.
