Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Raheem
In the blessed words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” meaning the (first) ten days of Dhul- Hijjah. They said: “O Messenger of Allah! Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah?” He said: “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, unless a man goes out with himself and his wealth and does not bring anything back.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 1727)
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are a divine opportunity to seek closeness to Allah through sincere acts of worship, self-purification, and service to others. The focus keyword, first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, carries profound meaning in Islamic tradition. These sacred days hold more merit than any other period of the year, even the nights of Ramadan, as per several authentic narrations.
Why are these days so significant?
Because in them, multiple pillars of Islam converge. It is during these days that Hajj is performed. It includes the Day of Arafah, a day on which Allah frees more souls from the Hellfire than any other, and a day where fasting expiates sins of two years.
The righteous deeds encouraged in these days include fasting, especially on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah (Arafah), increased dhikr (remembrance of Allah), giving charity, offering sacrifice (Qurbani), sincere repentance, and performing good deeds of all kinds.
“And remember Allah during the appointed days.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:203)
“That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days…” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:28)
The Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) would increase in tahleel (La ilaha illAllah), takbeer (Allahu Akbar), and tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) during these days. This teaches us the importance of glorifying Allah and being mindful of His immense blessings.
We must not let these precious days slip away. Let us make sincere intentions to utilize every moment. Whether it’s through prayer, fasting, kindness, dhikr, or learning, these days are an opportunity to transform our lives.
Let this blog serve as a reminder that the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are more than a date on the calendar. They are a mercy and favor from our Lord, a sacred invitation to return to Him.
