Embracing the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah: A Spiritual Guide

 

The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the great blessings Allah has bestowed upon His servants, deserving of profound appreciation. Just as righteous and good people value this time, every Muslim should recognize this blessing and seek to perform more righteous deeds during these ten days.

 

During these ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, Muslims should consider the following actions:

 

Fasting:

It is Sunnah to fast on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, as the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) emphasized good deeds during these ten days. Among good deeds, fasting stands out, as Allah has chosen fasting for Himself. In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala says: "All the actions of the son of Adam are for himself, but not fasting, because it is for Me and I will reward him." (Sahih Bukhari:1805)

 

Saying Takbirs:

During these days, it's recommended to say loud takbirs, "La ilaha illa Allah," and "Alhamdulillah" to express worship and announce the reverence of Allah. Men should say this in a high voice, and women in a low voice, as guided by Surah Al-Hajj:28.

 

Performing Hajj and Umrah:

These actions are among the best deeds one can perform in these ten days. "There is no reward for performing Hajj except Paradise." (Al-Tirzami:938)

 

Engaging in Good Deeds:

During these days, focus on obedience, prayer, recitation of the Holy Qur'an, dhikr, dua, charity, respect to parents, enjoining goodness, preventing evil, and other righteous acts.

 

Sacrifice:

Seeking closeness to Allah through sacrifice on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah is a way to honor these days, as guided by Surah Al-Hajj:34.

 

True and Firm Repentance:

Emphasizing repentance is vital. Turn towards Allah, abandoning what He dislikes, and strive to avoid future disobedience. Immediate repentance is crucial, as emphasized in Surah Al-Qasas:67.

 

Thus, a Muslim should cherish this special time, acting quickly to seize these opportunities. These blessings are bestowed upon those Allah wills, leading to joy in this life and reward on the Day of Resurrection. As stated in Surah Zilzaal:8, even an atom's weight of evil will be seen, so let us strive to do righteous deeds and receive our Lord's blessings during this month of Dhu al-Hijjah.