Introduction: The first 10 days of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah have great significance for Muslims. These days are highly blessed. It's an opportunity for worship and seeking nearness to Allah.
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Here are some of the practices and rituals associated with these ten days:
Fasting: It is recommended to observe a voluntary fast, particularly on the Day of Arafah, or the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah. Fasting on this day is highly encouraged as it expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.
Prayer: Muslims are encouraged to increase their prayers during these ten days, including the obligatory prayers, as well as optional prayers such as Tahajjud prayers. Additionally, reciting Quran and engaging in supplications (dua) is also emphasized.
Charity: Giving charity (Sadaqah) is highly recommended with great significance during these ten days. Muslims are encouraged to give in charity to the needy, feed the hungry, and support various charitable activities.
Hajj Pilgrimage: The holiest days of the Hajj pilgrimage fall within the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. While the Hajj pilgrimage itself is obligatory for those who are physically and financially capable, Muslims who are not performing Hajj can also benefit from the blessings of these days by engaging in the aforementioned acts of worship.
Takbeer: It is recommended to recite the Takbeer, a specific proclamation of the greatness of Allah, during these ten days. The Takbeer starts from the Fajr (dawn) prayer of the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah until the Asr prayer of the 13th day. The wording of the Takbeer is: "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahi al-hamd" (Allah is the greatest, Allah is the greatest, there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, Allah is the greatest, Allah is the greatest, and all praise is due to Allah).
Virtuous Time: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) referred to the 1st 10 days best and most virtuous days of the year. Engaging in acts of worship during this period carries more reward and blessings compared to other times.
Day of Arafah: The Day of Arafah arrives on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah. It is the most important day for Hajj pilgrims, as they gather in the plain of Arafah and engage in supplication and worship. It is believed that on this day, Allah forgives the sins of those who sincerely repent and seek forgiveness.
Fasting on the Day of Arafah: It is highly encouraged to fast on the Day of Arafah who not performing the Hajj. It is narrated that fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year, serving as a means of purification and seeking closeness to Allah.
Universal Celebration: The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are celebrated by Muslims worldwide, regardless of whether they are performing Hajj or not. It is a time of unity and communal worship, as Muslims collectively strive to reap the spiritual benefits and blessings of these sacred days.
Eid al-Adha:
Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid ul-Adha or Eid ul-Azha, which is an important Islamic holiday. It is a considered "Festival of Sacrifice" to honor Prophet Abraham's (Abraham's) readiness to sacrifice his son to God.On Eid al-Adha, Muslims congregate in mosques for group prayers. They also perform ritualistic animal sacrifices, typically involving camels, sheep, goats, or cows.
Overall, the significance of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah lies in their immense spiritual value, offering Muslims an opportunity to engage in acts of worship, seek forgiveness, and deepen their connection with Allah. It is a period of heightened devotion and reflection, with the potential for profound spiritual growth and blessings.
By engaging in these acts of worship during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, Muslims seek to earn blessings, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah. It is an opportunity for spiritual reflection, renewal, and increased devotion.
References:
https://sunnah.com/urn/2059290