Why Are the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah the Best Days?

The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most blessed days in Islam. Allah swore by them in the Qur’an:

Muslims eagerly seek to make the most of these days, as they are a unique opportunity for spiritual growth, where rewards are multiplied, mercy descends, and forgiveness is abundant.

The Virtue of Good Deeds in Dhul-Hijjah

Greater Than Any Other Time

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” referring to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.

This shows that every good deed, no matter how small, carries greater reward during this period.

Multiplication of Rewards

All acts of worship are greatly rewarded, including:

• Prayer
• Fasting
• Charity
• Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
• Reading the Qur’an
• Honoring parents and maintaining family ties

What Makes These Days Special?

Gathering of Major Acts of Worship

These days uniquely combine the greatest acts of worship in Islam, such as:

• Hajj
• Fasting
• Prayer
• Charity

This combination does not occur at any other time of the year.

The Day of Arafah

The Day of Arafah is one of the greatest days, when Allah frees countless people from Hellfire. It is also a day of accepted الدعاء and forgiveness.

Best Deeds During the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah

Increase in Dhikr

It is recommended to frequently say:

• Allahu Akbar (Takbir)
• La ilaha illa Allah (Tahlil)
• Subhan Allah (Tasbih)

Fasting, Especially the Day of Arafah

Fasting is highly recommended, especially on the Day of Arafah for non-pilgrims, as it expiates sins.

Charity and Udhiya (Sacrifice)

Giving charity and offering the udhiya are among the best acts, bringing joy to the needy and reviving a great Sunnah.

Night Prayers and Supplication

Praying at night and making sincere supplication during these days can bring immense spiritual reward.

Which Is Better: Dhul-Hijjah or the Last 10 Days of Ramadan?

Days vs Nights

Scholars explain that:

• The days of Dhul-Hijjah are the best days of the year
• The nights of the last 10 days of Ramadan are the best nights, due to Laylat al-Qadr

Each period holds its own unique excellence.

How to Make the Most of These Days

Practical Daily Plan

To benefit fully:

• Perform prayers on time
• Dedicate time daily for Qur’an reading
• Increase remembrance of Allah
• Fast as much as possible
• Give charity regularly
• Strengthen family ties and do good deeds
  
  
  
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FAQ

What are the virtues of the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah?

They are the best days of the year where rewards are multiplied and good deeds are most beloved to Allah.

What are the best deeds during these days?

Dhikr, fasting, prayer, charity, reading the Qur’an, and sacrifice.

Is fasting recommended during these days?

Yes, especially fasting on the Day of Arafah.

Why is the Day of Arafah important?

It is a day of forgiveness, liberation from Hellfire, and accepted supplications.

Which is better: Dhul-Hijjah or the last 10 days of Ramadan?

The days of Dhul-Hijjah are better, while the nights of Ramadan are superior due to Laylat al-Qadr.