Dhul Hijjah - Twelfth Month of the Islamic Calendar
Dhul-Hijjah is the 12th and the last month of the Islamic Hijri Calendar. It has great significance as it is known as the month of Hajj. It is considered as the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and the time to fulfill Allah's (SWT) commands in the form of Eid-Ul-Adha. Muslims also engage in different religious activities including fasting on particular days like 9 of Dhul Hijja (the day of Arafah)
Dhul Hijjah: A Month of Spiritual Renewal, Worship, and Blessings
The Significance of Dhul Hijjah in Islam
Dhul Hijjah is one of the most sacred months since it contains Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Hajj is held from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah in the holy cities of Makkah and Mina. During these days, millions of Muslims around the world perform rituals that remember the trials of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family in the way of Allah's submission.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are very blessed. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) underlined their importance when he said that no deeds are more beloved to Allah than those done during these days (Sunan Ibn Majah). Fasting on the Day of Arafah, which is the 9th Dhul Hijjah, is recommended for those who are not performing Hajj as it expiates sins for the past and the coming year.
Ritual and Worship in Dhul Hijjah
Hajj Pilgrimage: A form of Hajj that Muslim men and women who can do it in body and wealth perform by standing at Arafah, seeking forgiveness and pleading.
Eid al-Adha: On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims across the world celebrate Eid al-Adha by sacrificing an animal, known as Qurbani, to show respect to Prophet Ibrahim, who was ready to sacrifice his son at the will of Allah. The flesh is distributed among the poor.
Extra Devotion: Muslims spend extra time in additional prayers, dhikr, fasting, and charity to make the most of the rewards offered during this sacred month.
Dhul Hijjah Spiritual Rewards and Benefits
- Multiplied Rewards: The acts of worship during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the most virtuous of the year, with rewards from Allah being multiplied.
- Forgiveness of Sins: Fasting on the Day of Arafah, which is the 9th Dhul Hijjah, expiates sins from the previous and upcoming year, bringing spiritual purification.
- Increased Mercy and Blessings: The month is filled with Allah's mercy, and Muslims seek His blessings through extra prayers, supplications, and good deeds.
- Spiritual Renewal: The month encourages a deeper connection with Allah through sincere worship, reflection, and seeking His forgiveness.
- Elevation of Status: Performing acts of worship, such as fasting, prayer, and charity, during this time elevates one’s status in the sight of Allah.
- Giving in charity, especially during Eid al-Adha, helps Muslims share their blessings with the less fortunate and earn rewards and blessings in return.