Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred and highly esteemed period for Muslims. This month holds great significance as it is when Muslims embark on the sacred journey of Hajj, visiting the holy Kaaba in Makkah. The name “Dhul Hijjah” literally translates to “the possessor of the pilgrimage,” and it is during the eighth, ninth, and tenth days of this month that the Hajj pilgrimage takes place.
The month of Dhul Hijjah is important for we Muslims. In an Hadith, the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that there are no deeds as magnificent as the ones committed during these 10 days. Upon hearing it, when listeners enquired if even Jihad was not equal to it, the Prophet replied negatively and said not even Jihad except a man who goes forth putting his life and wealth in peril and does not return with anything. Therefore, Muslims believe that these first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah possess tremendous power and spending them in worship and virtuous deeds earn favour from Allah. And, since Islam sees fasting as one of the greatest deeds and the best form of worship, Dhul Hijjah fasting is recommended.
In another Hadith, it is mentioned that there are no days more beloved to God than the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah. Fasting every day during this time is equivalent to fasting the whole year and standing in prayer at night is like standing on the night of Qadr. From this Hadith, one can be certain that fasting during these days and praying Tahajjud at night is one of the best ways to maximize rewards.
Fasting during Dhul Hijjah offers several unique spiritual benefits, including:
1.Atonement of Sins: Fasting on the day of Arafah (the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah) earns expiation from the sins of the past and upcoming year.
2.Release of the Soul from Hellfire: Fasting and praying during these days can protect one from the fire of hell, as Allah sets many souls free from hellfire on the day of Arafah.
3.Combining Intentions: Combining intentions to fast during these days with other good deeds, such as following the Sunnah, can increase rewards.
4.Reciting Remembrance: Reciting Takbeer, Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, and Tahleel during these days is considered a virtuous act, helping to please Allah.
5.Seeking Repentance: The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are an ideal time to seek repentance from Allah, praying for forgiveness and wiping away sins.
6.Unlocking Divine Opportunities: These days offer a chance to gain immense rewards and blessings, especially for those who cannot perform Hajj.
7.Maximizing Rewards: Fasting and praying during these days, especially on the night of Arafah, can earn rewards equivalent to standing on the night of Qadr.
8.Following the Prophet’s Example: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to fast during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, setting an example for believers to follow.
9.Beloved Days to Allah: These ten days are more beloved to Allah than any other time of the year, making it an ideal period for virtuous deeds.
10.Equivalent to Fasting a Whole Year: Fasting during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah is considered equivalent to fasting for the entire year, earning immense blessings and rewards.
