Dhul Hijjah: The Season of Sacrifice and Sharing

Muslims have many days and nights in the year in which to do good deeds and earn rewards. These holy times are reminders of our duties towards others and ourselves, as well as opportunities to sincerely worship Allah SWT.

As reported by Ibn ‘Abbaas, the Prophet (pbuh) said of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” 

Dhul Hijjah is the last month of the Islamic calendar and its first ten days are the best time in which to uplift our spirituality and uplift others!

During these ten days, Muslims go on Hajj, they offer Qurbani and they also celebrate Eid ul Adha.

This year only a small number of people will be able to go on Hajj due to the Corona Virus Pandemic, and many Muslims across the world will not be able to pray in congregation or celebrate in gatherings with family and loved ones. However, the real spirit of this time in in our actions and our hearts. Things may seem uncertain and bleak, but that is why this season of sacrifice has much to teach us.

Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) was wiling to sacrifice his beloved son because it was being commanded of him by Allah SWT. His son, Prophet Ismail (pbuh) was willing to be sacrificed to fulfil his duty in this command. We are taught that these acts of obedience and faith show us how we should approach worship and following the commands of Allah SWT. The mercy of Allah SWT is shown in Him replacing Ismail with a ram.

To remember this act of worship, Muslims sacrifice animals on the days of Eid. We share the meat with our family and friends and are also commanded to give 1/3 to those in need. This shows us that we should share our blessings and no act of worship is complete without thinking of others.

Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice happened on Mount Arafat, which is also the site of Prophet Mohammed’s final sermon. Muslims on Hajj will climb the mount on the Day of Arafat and this is also a day on which Muslims will fast. The final sermon has many lessons about how we should behave towards others and in these uncertain times, we should work towards justice and kindness.

Doing good deeds is a boost to the system. During these ten days, and beyond, let us smile at each other, say kind words, check in on neighbours, give in charity with our time or money and make sincere prayers and worship.

We wish you a beautiful month and good health for Eid inshAllah!