As the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah approach, the hearts of believers around the world begin to stir with anticipation. Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is not merely a celebration; it is a reflection of faith, submission, and devotion to the will of Allah. Yet the true beauty of this season lies not only in the day of Eid itself but in the days that precede it.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are among the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar. They offer every Muslim, whether on the plains of Arafah or in the comfort of home, an opportunity to draw closer to Allah with acts of devotion that are beloved to Him.
Fasting the First Nine Days of Dhul Hijjah
Fasting during the first nine days, especially on the Day of ‘Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah), carries immense reward.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari, no. 969)
For those not performing Hajj, the Day of ‘Arafah is a golden opportunity: “Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” (Sahih Muslim, no. 1162)
Make an intention to fast, even if only for one or two days. It is a small effort with a great reward.
Constant Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
During these ten days, fill your heart and tongue with remembrance of Allah. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged frequent recitation of:
- Takbir: Allāhu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- Tahmid: Al-ḥamdu lillāh (All praise is due to Allah)
- Tahlil: Lā ilāha illa Allāh (There is no god but Allah)
- Tasbih: Subḥān Allāh (Glory be to Allah)
This includes both:
- Takbir Muthlaq: general, unrestricted takbir throughout the first ten days.
- Takbir Muqayyad: takbir after obligatory prayers, starting from Fajr of the 9th Dhul Hijjah until ‘Asr of the 13th.
Let your soul find peace in dhikr, and your days be blessed with His remembrance.
Voluntary Prayers and Qiyam al-Layl
The early days of Dhul Hijjah are a perfect time to reconnect with your salah. Perform:
- Sunnah Rawatib (before and after obligatory prayers)
- Duha prayer in the mid-morning
- Qiyam al-Layl (Tahajjud) in the last third of the night
In these quiet moments, raise your hands in du’a, seek forgiveness, and reflect on your personal journey of faith. Even one rak’ah in the night can be the light that softens your heart.
Giving Charity and Supporting the Needy
Not everyone can afford to offer a sacrifice, but everyone can give sadaqah. The rewards of charity during these blessed days are multiplied:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Charity does not decrease wealth…” (Sahih Muslim, no. 2588)
- This is the perfect time to:
- Feed the hungry
- Sponsor a Qurbani for the poor
- Support relief for orphans and refugees
- Donate regularly, even if only a small amount
Let your generosity be a source of joy for others and a means of elevation for yourself.
Intention and Preparation for Qurbani (Udhiya)
For those who intend to offer a sacrifice, it is sunnah to refrain from cutting hair or nails from the beginning of Dhul Hijjah until the sacrifice is done.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When the ten days begin and one of you intends to offer a sacrifice, let him not remove anything from his hair or nails until he has offered the sacrifice.” (Sahih Muslim, no. 1977)
This is a symbolic act that mirrors the state of the pilgrims and shows unity in obedience to Allah’s command.
If you are unable to perform the sacrifice yourself, consider arranging it through a trusted organization that can deliver your Qurbani to those in need.
Attending the Eid Prayer in the Best Manner
The day of Eid al-Adha itself is filled with rewards and joy. To observe it properly:
- Perform ghusl, a full-body ritual purification (washing) before the prayer
- Wear your best modest clothing
- Avoid eating before the prayer (unlike Eid al-Fitr)
- Recite the takbir on your way to the prayer area
- Take a different route home, as per the sunnah
- Celebrate with humility, gratitude, and remembrance.
Let these sacred days be a turning point in your spiritual journey. Choose one act of worship you haven’t practiced before; perhaps fasting, night prayer, or daily dhikr. Every small step count in the eyes of Allah.
We may not all stand on the plains of Arafah, but we can all stand in prayer, with hearts full of sincerity.
May Allah accept us and you. May He bless our days with barakah, our deeds with sincerity, and our Eid with joy.
