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First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah 2024: A Gateway to Divine Mercy and Forgiveness

As the Islamic calendar unfolds, the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah emerge as a golden opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and divine connection. This blessed period offers a unique chance to seek forgiveness, accumulate rewards, and draw closer to Allah. Let's embark on a journey to explore the significance of these days, uncovering the secrets of the Quran, the wisdom of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and the historical events that shaped the destiny of humanity.

The Quranic Perspective

  • Allah swears by these 10 days, emphasizing their gravity and importance (Surah Al-Fajr, 89:1-2)
  • The Quran describes these days as "the best of days" and "the most noble of times" (Surah Al-Fajr, 89:3-4)

The Prophetic Guidance

  • The Prophet (peace be upon him) declares, "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days" (Bukhari)
  • The Prophet (peace be upon him) also says, "The best of deeds are those done in these ten days" (Tirmidhi)
  • He further emphasizes, "Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the past year and the upcoming year" (Muslim)

Historical Events that Shaped Destiny

  • The Prophet's (peace be upon him) farewell Hajj in 632 CE
  • The conquest of Makkah in 630 CE
  • The birth of the Prophet's grandson, Imam Hussein (RA)
  • The martyrdom of Imam Hussein (RA) in Karbala, 680 CE

Practical Actions to Unlock Rewards

  • Perform extra prayers and recite the Quran
  • Fast as many days as possible, especially the 9th (Arafah) and 10th (Eid al-Adha)
  • Donate generously, especially on the day of Arafah
  • Repent and seek forgiveness
  • Perform Umrah or Hajj if possible
  • Increase in dhikr and takbir
  • Perform Tawaf and visit historical sites in Makkah
  • Show kindness and generosity to family and friends
  • Seek forgiveness from others and make amends

Dhul Hijjah Fasting: A Shield Against Sin

  • Fasting during these days is highly recommended, especially on the 9th and 10th
  • The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the past year and the upcoming year" (Muslim)

Donating During Fasting: A Key to Paradise

  • The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Charity given during the month of Dhul Hijjah is equal to giving charity on the day of resurrection" (Tirmidhi)
  • Donate generously, especially on the day of Arafah, to reap the rewards of this blessed period

As we embark on this sacred journey, may Allah guide us to make the most of these blessed days, forgive our transgressions, and grant us the rewards of our deeds. Ameen.

By Halla Saeed Khan