10 DEEDS FOR THE 10 DAYS OF DHUL HIJJAH
The blessed month of Dhul Hijjah will soon be upon us – and now is the time to consider what you can do in order to maximize the increased rewards that this month can bring.
Dhul Hijjah is the month where we undertake Hajj, fast on the Day of Arafah, offer our Qurbani donations, and celebrate the festival of Eid al-Adha.
However, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah bring the greatest reward and are said to be the best ten days of the whole year. As a result, it’s important that you are fully prepared for this blessed time of year.
For those who are not making the pilgrimage this year, here are ten deeds to carry out during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
Fasting
Although it is not obligatory, many Muslims choose to fast between the hours of sunrise and sunset on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, the Day of Arafah. Others choose to fast for the first nine days of the month, including the Day of Arafah. We should endeavor to fast during this time in order to seek forgiveness for our sins – both past and future.
Sadaqah Jariyah
If you are able to do so, performing acts of Sadaqah Jariyah during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah will earn you great blessings both now and in the Hereafter. Allah (SWT) looks favorably upon those who regularly give to charity, and it’s important not to forget that all wealth and material possessions belong to Him.
Qurbani
Every eligible Muslim must offer Qurbani to be performed after the completion of Eid al-Adha prayers. By performing Qurbani, you are following in the footsteps of the Prophet Ibrahim (as) and remembering his ultimate sacrifice. Make your Qurbani donation with Al Mustafa Welfare Trust this year and provide a nutritious meal for a family in need across the world.
Dua
You should aim to make as much dua as you can during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, and particularly on the Day of Arafah. Make dua after your daily prayers and recite dua in order to gain blessings from Allah (SWT).
Generosity
Practicing generosity is important throughout the year, but on these sacred days, even the simplest acts of kindness can earn great rewards. Open your heart and give what you can to help your brothers and sisters in need – both close to home and further afield.
Family
Spend time with your family and loved ones in the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Worship together and guide them to virtue, encouraging those around you to do good and receive blessings for their own good deeds.
Study
These days present the perfect opportunity for increased worship. Make time to read, recite, and study the Holy Qur’an, refreshing your understanding and reflecting on each verse that you read. Studying the Holy Qur’an in detail is a highly rewarding way to spend the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
Worship
Worship should be at the forefront of everything you do during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. From prayer and studying the Holy Qur’an to performing Qurbani, this is the time to renew your relationship with your faith and with Allah (SWT) in order to seek increased reward.
Forgiveness
Seek forgiveness for your sins – both past, present, and future – during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Offer up your prayers to Allah (SWT) and practice humility and devotion throughout your daily life. Show Allah (SWT) why your sins deserve to be forgiven by performing good deeds and striving to be the best possible version of yourself.
Prayer
Prayer is an important part of daily life for a Muslim, but during these blessed days, set aside time for increased prayer and worship. Recite duas, offer your thanks and gratitude to Allah (SWT) and seek His forgiveness for your sins. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are your opportunity to seek rewards and blessings for your good deeds.
No matter how you choose to worship during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, ensure that you are making the most of these blessed days.
We pray that Allah (SWT) will accept our prayers and our humble worship of His greatness. May Allah (SWT) bless us for our continued devotion and commitment to Him. Ameen.
