As the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah arrive, the world’s attention turns to Makkah, where millions prepare to stand before Allah on the plains of Arafah. But for the majority of Muslims—those not performing Hajj—these sacred days still hold immense spiritual potential. In fact, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are among the most virtuous days of the year for all believers, whether they are pilgrims or not.
Sacred Days, Supreme Deeds
Allah swears by these days in the Qur’an, underscoring their significance:
“By the dawn, and the ten nights.”
(Surah Al-Fajr 89:1–2)
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ further emphasized their importance, saying:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 969)
1. Begin with Sincere Intention (Niyyah)
Every meaningful act begins with intention. Whether it’s reading more Qur’an, offering extra prayers, or avoiding sin, dedicate these ten days to bettering your relationship with Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Actions are judged by intentions…”
(Bukhari and Muslim)
Let your heart set the direction, even before your limbs move.
2. Fast—Especially on the Day of Arafah
Fasting during these days, particularly on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Arafah), brings immense reward.
“Fasting the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
While fasting all nine days is recommended, even one fast—on the Day of Arafah—holds the power to cleanse a believer’s soul for two entire years.
3. Engage in Dhikr: The Light of the Heart
In these blessed days, the Prophet ﷺ encouraged frequent remembrance of Allah:
“Increase in saying: Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Alhamdulillah, and Subhanallah.”
(Musnad Ahmad)
These simple phrases are spiritually weighty. Let your mornings and evenings be filled with them.
“And men and women who remember Allah often—for ˹all of˺ them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.”
(Surah Al-Ahzab 33:35)
4. Give Charity and Embrace the Spirit of Sacrifice
Even if you’re not offering an animal for Qurbani, giving in charity mirrors the spirit of giving and compassion that defines Eid al-Adha.
“You will never achieve righteousness until you donate some of what you love.”
(Surah Aal Imran 3:92)
Give sincerely—whether it’s money, time, or even a smile.
5. Make Du’a and Seek Forgiveness
The Day of Arafah is known for its unmatched potential for accepted du’a. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best du’a is the du’a of Arafah.”
(Tirmidhi, 3585)
Even if you’re not physically on the plain of Arafah, you can spiritually stand there with your du’a, tears, and humility.
“When My servants ask you ˹O Prophet˺ about Me: I am truly near. I respond to one’s prayer when they call upon Me. So let them respond ˹with obedience˺ to Me and believe in Me, perhaps they will be guided ˹to the Right Way˺.”
Let These Days Transform You
For non-Hajjis, Dhul Hijjah is not a time to feel left out—it’s a time to lean in. These ten days are a divine chance to turn back to Allah, improve our habits, and renew our faith. Whether it’s through fasting, prayer, charity, or remembrance, the opportunities are endless—and the rewards are unimaginable.