Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of our year, often arrives when we are at our most tired. We’ve just settled back into our post-Ramadan routines, and the “spiritual high” might feel like a distant memory. But Allah, in His infinite mercy, gives us one last grand opening before the year closes. Whether you are navigating the school run, a corporate boardroom, or a quiet day at home, these days are a precious invitation to reconnect.
What is Dhul Hijjah?
Dhul Hijjah literally means “The Month of Hajj,” but for the Muslima at home, it is so much more. It is one of the four sacred months where the “spiritual veil” is thin. Think of it as a sacred container of time where every small deed is amplified. It is a month where we look back at the trials of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hajar (AS) and realise that our own struggles have a divine purpose too.
“Indeed, the number of months with Allāh is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allāh [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion [i.e., way], so do not wrong yourselves during them. And fight against the disbelievers collectively as they fight against you collectively. And know that Allāh is with the righteous [who fear Him].”
At-Tawbah 9:36
When is Dhul Hijjah?
Because we follow a lunar calendar, Dhul Hijjah is a season that moves through our lives. Sometimes it finds us in the heat of summer; other times in the dark of winter. Its start is marked by the sighting of the new moon. The first ten days are the “crown jewels” of this month, holding the holiest days, culminating in the joy of Eid al-Adha.
What is its significance to Muslims?
Dhul Hijjah is significant because it is the ultimate season. It’s where the global Ummah converges on one point, reminding us that we are part of something much larger than our daily worries.
Hajj Pilgrimage:
For the pilgrims, this is the journey of a lifetime. For those of us at home, it is a “Hajj of the heart.” While they walk around the Ka’aba, we try to center our lives around Allah right where we are. Allah (SWT) mentions Hajj:
“Call ˹all˺ people to the pilgrimage. They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel from every distant path,”
Al-Hajj 22:27
Day of Arafah:
The Day of Arafah, the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, is the “heart” of the month; it is one of the most sacred days. It is the day of absolute forgiveness. If you feel burdened by mistakes or “spiritual burnout,” this is the day to lay it all down and start fresh. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
‘Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “There is no day on which Allah sets free more slaves from Hell than He does on the Day of ‘Arafah.” [Muslim].
Riyad as-Salihin 1277
Chapter 233: The Obligation of Hajj (Pilgrimage) and its Excellence, Book 10: The Book of Hajj
Eid al-Adha:
Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is such a beautiful reminder of the deep faith that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had. It’s a time for all of us to reflect on our own devotion and the sacrifices we make for our relationship with Allah. The essence of this day really resonates with the idea of submission and gratitude.
The Days of Tashriq, occurring on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah, are days of continued celebration and worship. They offer a precious opportunity for us to engage in Dhikr, especially the Takbeer, Tahleel, and Tahmeed, as we reflect on the immense blessings of Allah (SWT). Since fasting is prohibited during this time, families and friends come together to feast and enjoy the bounties provided by Allah, cherishing these beautiful moments of faith and community.
Nubaishah Al-Hudhali (RAA) narrated that The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The days of Tashriq (the three days following ‘Idul Ad-ha, i.e. 11th , 12th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah) are days of eating, drinking and remembering (dhikr) of Allah, the Most Great and Glorious.” Related by Muslim.
Bulugh al-Maram
Book 5: Fasting
Forgiveness and Renewal:
These days are a mercy, especially the day of Arafah. They remind us that no matter how far we’ve drifted during the year, the door to renewal is always wide open. The Prophet ﷺ told us these are the most beloved days to Allah, more so than even the days of Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
Abu Hurairah narrated that: the Messenger of Allah said: “Al-Yawmul-Maw’ud (the Promised Day) is the Day of Resurrection, and Al-Yawmul-Mashhud (the Attended Day) is the Day of Arafah, and Ash-Shahid (the witness) is Friday.” He said: “The sun does not rise nor set, upon a day that is more virtuous than it. In it, there is an hour in which no believing worshipper makes a supplication to Allah for good, except that Allah answers it for him, and he does not seek Allah’s aid for something, except that He aids him in it.”
Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3339
Chapter 76: Regarding Surat Al-Buruj, Book 47: Chapters on Tafsir
It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbas that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” meaning the (first) ten days of Dhul- Hijjah. They said: “O Messenger of Allah! Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah?” He said: “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, unless a man goes out with himself and his wealth and does not bring anything back.”
Sunan Ibn Majah 1727
Chapter 39: Fasting the (first) ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah), Book 7: Fasting
These days include the Day of Arafah, about which the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked about the observance of Saum (fasting) on the day of ‘Arafah. He said, “It is an expiation for the sins of the preceding year and the current year.” [Muslim].
Riyad as-Salihin 1250
Chapter 227: The Excellence of Observing Saum on the Day of ‘Arafah, ‘Ashura’ and Tasu’a (i.e., 9th of Muharram), Book 8: The Book of Virtues
What rituals are observed?
The rituals of Dhul Hijjah bring us closer to Allah (SWT) and allow us to reflect on the sacrifices made by the prophets.
Hajj:
We might not be in Makkah, but we can immerse ourselves in the spirit. Read the stories of the Prophets, watch the pilgrims, and let your heart feel the longing. That longing itself is a form of Ibadah. Allah says:
…وَأَتِمُّوا۟ ٱلْحَجَّ وَٱلْعُمْرَةَ لِلَّهِ ۚ
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah.”
Al-Baqarah 2:196
Fasting:
Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah is not just an act of abstaining from food but a holistic approach to spiritual growth and development. If your schedule is too intense for all nine, prioritise the Day of Arafah. It’s the ultimate “reset button” that expiates two years of sins.
Sacrifice (Udhiyyah):
Performing udhiyyah, or qurbani, is a meaningful act that honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son. It reminds us to make sacrifices in our own lives for the sake of Allah. The meat is shared with those in need, which brings us together as a community and shows compassion. This is a time to celebrate and reflect on the importance of giving and unity.
لَن يَنَالَ ٱللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَآؤُهَا وَلَـٰكِن يَنَالُهُ ٱلتَّقْوَىٰ مِنكُمْ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ سَخَّرَهَا لَكُمْ لِتُكَبِّرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَىٰكُمْ ۗ وَبَشِّرِ ٱلْمُحْسِنِينَ ٣٧
Neither their meat nor blood reaches Allah. Rather, it is your piety that reaches Him. This is how He has subjected them to you so that you may proclaim the greatness of Allah for what He has guided you to, and give good news to the good-doers.
Al-Hajj 22:37
Takbeer, Tahleel and Tahmeed:
We can frequently recite the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), Tahleel (La ilaha illallah) and Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah), from the 1st to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah, especially after fard prayers.
The all-in-one takbeer, tahleel, and tahmeed recited is:
Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, wa lillahi’l-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, and to Allah be praise)
Sadaqa (Charity):
Sadaqa, or voluntary charity, is highly encouraged during the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah as we can amplify the rewards and help those in need.
Zakat:
Zakat, our cherished duty of almsgiving, can hold special significance during Dhul Hijjah if your due date lands in this month. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, it reflects our commitment to sharing and compassion, calculated annually based on our savings and wealth. Contributing Zakat during Dhul Hijjah, especially around Eid al-Adha, beautifully embodies the spirit of sacrifice and generosity, making it a truly meaningful time for giving.
Practical Steps to Maximizing Dhul Hijjah
To make these days count without feeling overwhelmed, try these simple shifts:
- Set a “Sacrifice” Goal: What is one thing, a social media app, a habit of complaining, or late-night scrolling, that you can sacrifice for these ten days?
- The 5-Minute Dhikr Window: Spend just five minutes after each Salah in focused Takbeerat.
- Prepare for Arafah: Treat it like your personal “Night of Power.” Write down a Dua list and clear your afternoon to talk to Allah.
Conclusion
Dhul Hijjah offers a wealth of spiritual benefits. By understanding its importance, participating in its rituals, and actively seeking to maximize its blessings, we can strengthen our faith and draw closer to Allah. Let us embrace this sacred time, dedicating ourselves to worship and righteousness.
May Allah accept our deeds and grant us the ability to perform Hajj, seek forgiveness on the Day of Arafah, and celebrate Eid al-Adha in the true spirit of submission to Allah, sacrifice and generosity.
For the year 2026, the first day of Dhul Hijjah is expected to be Monday the 18th of May (night precedes the day in Islam, so the first night of Dhul Hijjah is expected to be the 17th of May – noteworthy for those planning on udhiyyah (offering sacrifice), so you make sure you dont cut your nails or clip your hair after sunset on the 17th). If the days commence accordingly, the day of Arafah will be on Tuesday the 26th of May.