The First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah: Virtues, Worship, and How to Make the Most of Them
The first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most blessed and spiritually significant days in the Islamic calendar. Allah has chosen these days to be full of opportunities for worship, reflection, and reward. This blog explores the importance of these days in the light of the Qur’an and Hadith and provides practical guidance on how to maximize their blessings.
The Significance of the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah
In the Light of the Qur’an
Allah swears by these days in the Qur’an, signifying their importance:
“By the dawn. And by the ten nights.” (Surah Al-Fajr 89:1-2)
Many scholars, including Ibn Kathir, interpret the “ten nights” as referring to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.
In another verse:
“…to mention the name of Allah on known days…” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:28)
According to the Mufassirun, the “known days” are the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.
In the Light of Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Bukhari)
He also said:
“The best day in the sight of Allah is the Day of Sacrifice (Yawm al-Nahr).” (Ahmad)
These narrations emphasize the unmatched value of worship and good deeds during these days.
How to Spend the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah
1. Fasting, Especially on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah)
Fasting during these days is highly recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” (Muslim)
Try to fast on all or most of the first 9 days, especially on the 9th.
2. Increased Worship and Night Prayer
Engage in extra prayers, including Tahajjud (night prayer). These moments of solitude are spiritually powerful and offer a chance to make heartfelt duas.
3. Recitation of the Qur’an
Dedicate time each day to read and reflect on the Qur’an. Aim to finish a Juz daily, or read as much as possible with understanding and Tafseer. If you don;t know how to read the holy Quran with tajweed then focus on learning how to read with tajweed.
4. Takbeer and Tashreeq
Recite the following regularly:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa Lillahil-hamd”
Begin this from the 1st of Dhul-Hijjah and continue until the 13th, especially after every obligatory prayer from the Fajr of the 9th to the Asr of the 13th.
5. Giving in Charity
These days are an excellent time to increase your sadaqah. Donate daily, support Islamic causes, and help the needy. if you haven’t given your zakaat yet, then preer to give your zakaat first.
6. Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil
Be a source of encouragement for others. Remind your family and friends about the importance of these days and motivate them to engage in good deeds.
7. Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Constantly keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah:
- Tahmeed: Alhamdulillah
- Tahleel: La ilaha illallah
- Takbeer: Allahu Akbar
- Tasbeeh: SubhanAllah
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“So during these days, recite more of Tahlil, Takbir, and Tahmeed.” (Ahmad)
8. Qurbani (Sacrifice)
If financially able, offer Qurbani on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. For those intending to offer a sacrifice, it is recommended to avoid cutting hair or nails from the 1st of Dhul-Hijjah until the Qurbani is done.
9. Hajj and Umrah
For those blessed to go, Hajj is one of the greatest acts of worship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“An accepted Hajj has no reward except Paradise.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Umrah-Guide-Performing-Umra/dp/1679962337
A Practical Checklist for the 10 Days
| Action | Frequency/Time |
|---|---|
| Fasting | First 9 days (esp. 9th) |
| Night Prayer | Every night if possible |
| Qur’an Reading | Daily |
| Takbeer, Tahmeed, Tasbeeh | Throughout the day |
| Tashreeq Takbeer | After Fard Salah (9th–13th) |
| Charity | Daily giving |
| Qurbani | 10th–12th Dhul-Hijjah |
| Hajj (if performing) | Rites performed in Makkah |
May Allah allow us to witness and make the most of these sacred days. Let us seize the opportunity to earn immense reward and draw closer to our Creator.
Wassalam,
Gateway to Quran
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