The first ten days of Dhul-Hajjah are better than any other days of the year, because of their virtues. As the rewards of the good deeds are multiplied to many times in this season, there are many good deeds and some of them are recommended to be performed in these days.
Praise Allah by Saying Takbirat
It is recommended to praise and glorify Allah by saying (Subhan’Allah, Alhamdu Lillah and Allah-hu-Akbar) during these days. Abdullah Ibn Umar (May Allah be pleased with them both) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“There are no days in which the good deeds are greater or more beloved by Allah than these ten days (the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah), therefore praise and glorify Allah abundantly in these days.” (Musnad Ahmad 5446)
Fasting during first Nine days of Dhul-Hijjah
Fasting as many of these days as possible. It is narrated from one of the wives of the Prophet (PBUH), who said:
“The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to fast (the first) nine days of Dhul-Hijjah.” (Abu Dawud 2437)
These days also include the day of Arafah. The day on which Allah has perfected His Religion (Islam) for us, completed His Favours upon us and have chosen for us Islam as our religion. Fasting on this great day (9th Dhul-Hijjah – for those who do not perform Hajj), will expiate for the sins of two years. It is narrated from Abu Qatadah Al-Ansari (May Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was asked about fasting on the Day of Arafah. He said:
“It expiates for the past and coming years.” (Muslim 1162)
Perform Hajj and Umrah
These days include the days of Hajj. Performing Hajj and Umrah are the best deeds as is supported by numerous Ahadith. The Prophet (PBUH) reminded his Ummah that sins committed between two Umrahs are forgiven. Ibn Masud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“Alternate between Hajj and Umrah; for these two remove poverty and sins just as the bellows removes filth from iron, gold, and silver – and there is no reward for Al-Hajj Al-Mabrur except for Paradise.” (At-Tirmidhi 810)
It is proved by this narration that a person who performs Hajj and Umrah with sincere and honest intentions alternatively in one or two visits dives in the river of blessings of Allah.
Sacrifice of Animals
Sacrifice is also include in these greatest days. It can be offered on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, which is called Eid ul Adha. It is the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim and our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Every Muslim, who can afford to offer sacrifice, is abide by Allah to fulfil this duty as Allah the Exalted says:
“Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only).” (Al-Kauthar 108:2)
It is narrated from Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever can afford to offer Sacrifice but does not offer it, let him not come near our prayer place.” (Ibn Majah 3123)
Whoever does not offer a sacrifice in spite of being capable of doing so, does not have the right to participate in the joys of the Muslims. It does not mean that he is not required to perform the Eid Prayer, but is to warn him to avoid abandoning sacrifice.
We ask Allah to make us capable of doing these righteous deeds. And to make us from those who remind others of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Ameen
