Dhul Hijjah 10 Best Days Hadith Explained
Introduction to Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holding immense religious importance for Muslims around the world. It is the month in which the Hajj pilgrimage is performed, and it culminates in the celebration of Eid al-Adha. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are especially sacred and considered the best days of the entire year in Islamic tradition.
The Sacred Months in Islam
Islam designates four months as sacred: Muharram, Rajab, Dhul Qa’dah, and Dhul Hijjah. These months are mentioned in the Qur’an as times when warfare is traditionally forbidden and righteous deeds are given greater weight. Dhul Hijjah stands out among them due to the convergence of major acts of worship like Hajj, sacrifice (Qurbani), and fasting within its first ten days.
Why Are the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah Special?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are universally recognized in Islam as days of increased blessings and opportunities for worship. Both the Qur’an and Hadith emphasize their unique status.
Qur’anic Reference to Dhul Hijjah
In Surah Al-Fajr, Allah swears by “the ten nights”:
“By the dawn, and by the ten nights…” (Qur’an, 89:1-2)
According to numerous classical tafsir (exegesis) scholars, including Ibn Kathir, these “ten nights” refer to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Allah’s oath by these days signifies their immense value and honor.
Key Hadith About the 10 Days
One of the most quoted Hadiths regarding these days is narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
The Prophet’s companions asked: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?”
He replied: “Not even Jihad, except a man who goes out with his life and wealth and returns with neither.” (Bukhari 969)
This Hadith highlights that even the greatest acts of devotion, such as fighting in the cause of Allah, do not surpass the reward of righteous deeds done during these ten days.
Virtues of the 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah
Rewards of Fasting
Fasting during the first nine days, especially on the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah), holds tremendous virtue. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
(Muslim 1162)
Scholars agree that fasting on these days is highly recommended, especially for those not performing Hajj.
Reward of Takbeer and Dhikr
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged increased remembrance of Allah during these days:
“There are no days greater and more beloved to Allah than these ten days, so increase in them your declaration of the oneness of Allah (Tahleel), exaltation of Him (Takbeer), and praise of Him (Tahmeed).”
(Ahmad 5446)
Saying “Allahu Akbar,” “La ilaha illallah,” and “Alhamdulillah” should be done frequently during this blessed time.
Major Events During Dhul Hijjah
Several monumental Islamic events occur during Dhul Hijjah:
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Hajj: The fifth pillar of Islam, obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able.
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Day of Arafah (9th): The most important day of Hajj, when pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat. It is a day of immense forgiveness.
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Eid al-Adha (10th): The Festival of Sacrifice, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
Acts of Worship Recommended During the First 10 Days
Fasting the First 9 Days
The Prophet ﷺ did not leave fasting these days, especially the Day of Arafah. It is a Sunnah practice with immense spiritual reward, especially for non-pilgrims.
Performing Hajj or Umrah
Performing Hajj during this time is the ultimate act of worship. A successful Hajj cleanses one of all previous sins, making them spiritually reborn.
Offering the Qurbani (Sacrifice)
Qurbani commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and symbolizes devotion to Allah. It is a confirmed Sunnah and strongly encouraged for those financially able.
Increased Prayer and Charity
Night and voluntary prayers, Qur’an recitation, and giving charity should be increased. The Prophet ﷺ was known to intensify his worship during this period.
What Scholars Say About These 10 Days
Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Qayyim both emphasized that the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are more virtuous than any other ten days in the Islamic calendar, including those of Ramadan. Scholars across madhhabs agree that every good deed during these days is multiplied many times over.
Comparison: Last 10 Nights of Ramadan vs First 10 of Dhul Hijjah
While the last ten nights of Ramadan include Laylat al-Qadr, which is better than a thousand months, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are superior in overall worship opportunities. Scholars reconcile this by noting that the nights of Ramadan are better, but the days of Dhul Hijjah are better in virtue.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
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Misconception: Only Hajjis benefit from these days.
Clarification: All Muslims are encouraged to engage in worship during these days. -
Misconception: Qurbani is optional and can be replaced with charity.
Clarification: While charity is encouraged, Qurbani is a distinct Sunnah act with specific spiritual merit. -
Misconception: Takbeer is only for Eid day.
Clarification: Takbeer should be recited from the first day of Dhul Hijjah up until the last day of Tashreeq (13th Dhul Hijjah).
FAQs
Q: Do the 10 days include Eid?
A: Yes, the 10th of Dhul Hijjah is the day of Eid al-Adha and is the final day of the blessed ten.
Q: Can women in menstruation benefit from these days?
A: Yes, by engaging in dhikr, du’a, charity, and listening to Qur’an, they can still earn great rewards.
Q: Is fasting all 9 days obligatory?
A: No, but it is highly recommended, especially the Day of Arafah.
Q: What if I can’t offer a Qurbani?
A: If financially unable, you’re not held accountable. You can give charity or share in a group sacrifice.
Conclusion
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a rare and powerful opportunity for Muslims to draw closer to Allah through various acts of worship. With both the Qur’an and authentic Hadith praising these days, every believer should seize the chance to increase their prayers, fasting, charity, and remembrance of Allah. Let these ten days transform your faith, uplift your soul, and bring you eternal rewards.
