The Virtues of the First Ten Days of Dhul-Hijjah and the Day of Arafah
Discover the virtues of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah and the Day of Arafah, the best deeds to perform, and why they are the greatest days of the year.
The Virtues of the First Ten Days of Dhul-Hijjah and the Day of Arafah
What is the significance of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah?
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most blessed days of the year in Islam. They represent a unique spiritual season where opportunities for worship and closeness to God are multiplied.
Allah swore by these days in the Qur’an:
“And by the dawn, and the ten nights,” highlighting their عظيمة (great significance).
Why did Allah swear by these days?
This divine oath reflects their elevated status. These days are a time for spiritual growth, sincere repentance, and increased acts of worship.
Why are these days considered the best of the year?
These days are distinguished by a rare combination of major acts of worship.
The gathering of major acts of worship
During these days, Muslims perform:
- Prayer
- Fasting
- Charity
- Hajj
This unique combination does not occur at any other time of the year.
Multiplication of rewards
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days.”
The virtue of the Day of Arafah
The Day of Arafah is the pinnacle of these blessed days and one of the greatest days in Islam.
Why is the Day of Arafah so important?
- A day of forgiveness
- A day when religion was perfected
- A day of liberation from Hellfire
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah.”
The reward of fasting on Arafah
For those not performing Hajj, fasting on this day expiates:
- The sins of the previous year
- The sins of the coming year
Best deeds during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah
1. Frequent remembrance of Allah
- Saying “Allahu Akbar”
- Saying “La ilaha illa Allah”
- Saying “Alhamdulillah”
2. Fasting
Especially the Day of Arafah due to its immense reward.
3. Charity
Giving charity during these days carries multiplied rewards.
4. Hajj and Umrah
They are among the greatest acts of worship performed in this period.
The Day of Sacrifice and the Days of Tashreeq
What is the Day of Sacrifice?
It is the day of Eid al-Adha and is considered the greatest day of the year in Islam.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The greatest day in the sight of Allah is the Day of Sacrifice.”
The virtues of the Days of Tashreeq
- Days of remembrance and gratitude
- Continuation of worship
- A chance to strengthen faith
The wisdom behind the virtues of these days
These days serve as:
- A time to renew faith
- An opportunity for self-purification
- A season for competing in good deeds
They represent a perfect balance between spiritual devotion and righteous action.
FAQ
Why are the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah special?
Because they combine major acts of worship and offer multiplied rewards.
Is fasting all ten days obligatory?
No, it is not obligatory, but highly recommended, especially the Day of Arafah.
What should I do on the Day of Arafah?
Engage in supplication, fasting (if not حج), and remembrance of Allah.
Is the Day of Sacrifice better than Arafah?
Both are great, but the Day of Sacrifice is considered the greatest overall.
What is the best remembrance during these days?
Saying “Allahu Akbar,” “La ilaha illa Allah,” and “Alhamdulillah.”
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