Fateha-e-Yazdaham, also called Fateha Doaz Daham, is a cultural and religious practice observed by some Muslims, particularly among certain Sufi orders and in the Indian subcontinent. It is performed on the 11th day of Rabi al-Thani (also known as Rabi al-Aakhir) in memory of Shaykh Abdul Qadir al-Jilani (رحمه الله), a renowned Islamic scholar, saint, and spiritual leader from Baghdad, Iraq.
The practice generally involves recitation of the Qur’an, supplications (du‘a), feeding the poor, and sending the reward of good deeds (Isal al-Thawab) to Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani. While widely practiced, it has also been debated among scholars, with differing views about its validity in Islam.
What is the meaning of Fateha Yaz Daham?
The phrase “Fateha Yaz Daham” literally means:
-
Fateha → Supplication, prayer, or recitation of Qur’an for conveying reward to the deceased.
-
Yaz Daham / Doaz Daham → The 11th in Persian/Urdu.
So, “Fateha Yaz Daham” refers to the 11th-day commemoration through du‘a, Qur’an recitation, and charity, dedicated to Shaykh Abdul Qadir al-Jilani (رحمه الله).
What is fateha yaz daham in Islam?
In Islam, making du‘a and conveying reward (Isal al-Thawab) to the deceased is proven from the Qur’an and Hadith. However, fixing a specific date or ritual (like the 11th of Rabi al-Thani) is not found in Qur’an or Hadith directly; rather, it is a cultural practice that developed later.
Evidence from Qur’an:
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And those who come after them say: Our Lord! Forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith…”
(Surah Al-Hashr 59:10)
This verse shows the permissibility of praying for the deceased.
Evidence from Hadith:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.”
(Sahih Muslim, 1631)
This Hadith clearly establishes that du‘a and good deeds can benefit the deceased.
Thus, while making du‘a and reciting Qur’an for Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani is permissible, fixing the 11th day specifically as an obligatory practice is not directly proven from the Sunnah.
See more: Rabi al-Thani Importance, Meaning, Significance Events
What is the history of Fateha Doaz Daham?
The practice of Fateha Doaz Daham originated in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Central Asia among followers of Sufi traditions.
-
Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (رحمه الله) passed away on 11th Rabi al-Thani 561 AH (1166 CE).
-
To honor his memory, disciples and followers began holding annual gatherings on this date to recite Qur’an, make du‘a, and give charity in his name.
-
Over time, this became a widespread cultural tradition known as Fateha-e-Yazdaham.
Is fateha valid in Islam?
The answer depends on what is meant by “Fateha”:
✅ Permissible Aspects:
-
Reciting Qur’an and making du‘a for the deceased.
-
Giving charity and sending reward to them.
-
Remembering pious scholars and saints for their services to Islam.
Scholarly Opinions:
-
Majority of scholars: Making du‘a and isal al-thawab is valid.
-
Salafi/Wahhabi scholars: Strongly oppose fixed rituals like Fateha Yaz Daham, considering them bid‘ah.
-
Sufi scholars: Encourage it as a way of remembering pious saints, while acknowledging it is not obligatory.
Conclusion
Fateha-e-Yazdaham is a commemorative practice held on the 11th of Rabi al-Thani in honor of Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (رحمه الله). Its core elements — du‘a, Qur’an recitation, and charity — are permissible and beneficial according to the Qur’an and Sunnah. However, fixing it to a specific date or making it a binding religious practice has no explicit basis in Islam and falls into the category of cultural tradition rather than obligatory worship.
