Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, particularly on the day of Arafah (the ninth day), holds significant spiritual benefits.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The observance of three days’ fast every month and that of Ramadan every year is equivalent to fasting for the entire year. I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Arafah may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years; and I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’ may atone for the sins of the preceding year.” (Muslim)
The act of fasting fosters a sense of discipline and closeness to Allah. It allows one to step back from the distractions of daily life and focus on spiritual growth. The day of Arafah, especially, is a day for repentance and seeking Allah’s mercy. Although those performing Hajj do not fast on this day, for those at home, it is a highly recommended practice.
The early days of Dhul Hijjah are marked by the frequent recitation of
‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is the Greatest),
‘Alhamdulillah’ (All praise is due to Allah),
‘Subhan Allah’ (Glory be to Allah).
These phrases, known as Takbir, Tahlil, and Tahmid, are powerful expressions of faith and remembrance of Allah.
Engaging in these chants helps keep the heart and mind focused on Allah throughout the day. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions would increase their recitation of these phrases during Dhul Hijjah. You can incorporate them into your daily routine by reciting them during your morning and evening commutes, while performing household chores, or during breaks at work. The key is consistency and sincerity in your recitation.
Dhikr, or the remembrance of Allah, is a simple yet profoundly rewarding act of worship. It involves remembering and praising Allah through specific phrases and verses. Simple acts like saying ‘SubhanAllah’ or reciting Qur'anic verses can bring you closer to Allah.
Dhikr can be performed anytime and anywhere, making it an accessible form of worship. Whether you are driving, cooking, or simply relaxing, you can use these moments to engage in Dhikr. Additionally, setting aside dedicated time for recitation of the Qur’an and other forms of Dhikr can deepen your connection with Allah.
Voluntary charity, or Sadaqah, is a profound way to show your faith and compassion. The ten days of Dhul Hijjah are an especially opportune time to give generously and support those in need. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of charity, stating that it can extinguish sins like water extinguishes fire.
There are numerous ways to give Sadaqah, whether through monetary donations, providing food, offering your time and skills, or simply helping someone in need. Each act of charity, no matter how small, is significant in the eyes of Allah. During these blessed days, make a conscious effort to seek out opportunities to help others and give back to your community.
Many Muslims choose Dhul Hijjah to pay their annual Zakat, the obligatory almsgiving. Zakat is a pillar of Islam and a crucial duty for those who have the means. It purifies wealth and serves as a reminder of the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah.
Calculating and paying Zakat can sometimes be complex, so it’s important to seek guidance if needed to ensure it is done correctly. There are numerous organizations and online resources available to help you determine your Zakat obligations. Remember, the purpose of Zakat is not only to support those in need but also to cleanse and bless your wealth.
During these blessed days, ensure that you perform your daily prayers with devotion and punctuality. The five daily prayers are the foundation of a Muslim's spiritual life, and praying them on time is a significant act of worship.
In addition to the obligatory prayers, strive to include additional prayers such as the late-night Tahajjud and the Sunnah prayers. The Tahajjud prayer, performed in the last third of the night, is a time of special closeness to Allah. It is a moment of tranquility and reflection, where you can seek forgiveness and guidance.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The intention of a believer is better than his action.” This profound statement emphasizes the importance of having sincere intentions behind every act of worship and good deed.
Approach the days of Dhul Hijjah with a pure heart and genuine intentions to seek Allah’s pleasure. Before performing any act of worship or charity, take a moment to reflect on your intentions. Are you doing it solely for the sake of Allah, or are there other motivations? Purifying your intentions ensures that your actions are meaningful and accepted by Allah.
Follow the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) by participating in Qurbani, the sacrificial offering. Qurbani commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Prophet Ismail (AS) as an act of obedience to Allah, a sacrifice that was ultimately replaced by a ram. This act of devotion is a powerful reminder of submission to Allah’s will.
Purchase your Qurbani shares and ensure they benefit those in need. The act of Qurbani carries great spiritual rewards, and distributing the meat to the poor and needy fulfills an important social responsibility. Consider supporting Human Appeal or other reputable organizations to ensure your Qurbani reaches those who truly need it.
In addition to these specific acts of worship, use the days of Dhul Hijjah for personal reflection and growth. Set aside time to contemplate your relationship with Allah and your journey in life. Are there areas where you can improve your worship, character, or contributions to the community?
Consider keeping a journal during these days to document your thoughts, prayers, and reflections. This practice can help you stay focused and intentional in your worship, and it provides a record of your spiritual journey that you can look back on for inspiration.
The ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a precious gift from Allah, offering countless opportunities for spiritual growth and divine forgiveness. By embracing fasting, reciting Dhikr, giving charity, fulfilling Zakat, prioritizing prayers, purifying intentions, performing Qurbani, and engaging in reflection you can make the most of this sacred time.
May your efforts during these blessed days be accepted and rewarded abundantly. Let this Dhul Hijjah be a period of profound spiritual renewal and unwavering devotion.
