Dhul Hijjah 2025

Dhul Hijjah 2025: Meaning, Significance and Best 10 Days

Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds immense significance in the lives of all the Muslims around the world. The Arabic word Dhu al-Hijjah means "The Month of the Pilgrimage" or "The One that Holds the Pilgrimage."

It is a time of reflection, gratitude, Ibadah, and a chance to gain immense rewards from Allah عزَّ وجلَّ. This blessed month contains some of the most sacred events in Islam, including the Hajj pilgrimage, the Day of Arafah, and Eid al-Adha.

Significance of Dhul Hijjah

Dhul Hijjah serves as a reminder to all of us as a Muslim of Allah’s عزَّ وجلَّ mercy and blessings. The month carries with it opportunities for deep reflection, increased devotion, and abundant rewards. It is also a time for Muslims to repent for their sins and draw closer to Allah عزَّ وجلَّ.

Why the First Ten Days Matter

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are regarded as the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said,

"There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than on these days"
— Jami` at-Tirmidhi

These ten days are a time for Muslims to intensify their worship, engage in acts of giving, and earn the divine favor of Allah عزَّ وجلَّ. These days hold great importance in Islam, marked by acts of worship such as Hajj and the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

Fasting and Praying in the First Ten Days

Fasting is among the most highly recommended acts of Ibadah during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Fasting on the Day of Arafah, the ninth day, is especially virtuous.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah, I hope from Allah, expiates for the sins of the year before and the year after.”
— Sahih Muslim

For Muslims who are not performing Hajj, fasting during these days is an opportunity to purify the soul and gain immense rewards.

Hajj Pilgrimage

Hajj, a fundamental pillar of Islam, is performed during the month of Dhul Hijjah and is a mandatory obligation for Muslims who have the financial means and physical ability to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage involves various acts of worship that commemorate the unwavering faith and dedication of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام) and his family.

Rituals of Hajj

During the pilgrimage, Muslims perform several rites that are deeply rooted in Islamic history.

Tawaf:

• The practice of circling the Kaaba in a counterclockwise motion.
• It symbolizes the unity of Muslims as they collectively worship Allah.

Sa’i:

• Walking back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
• This act commemorates Hagar's search for water for her son, Ismail.

Standing at Arafat:

• Pilgrims assemble on the plain of Arafat for worship and deep reflection.
• It is a day dedicated to seeking Allah’s forgiveness and offering heartfelt supplications.

The acts of worship are symbolic of the submission and obedience to Allah that the prophets demonstrated.

The Blessings of Hajj for Non-Pilgrims

While performing Hajj is obligatory for those who meet the criteria, the rewards and blessings associated with Dhul Hijjah are available to all Muslims. Those who cannot make the pilgrimage due to physical or financial constraints can still partake in the spiritual rewards of this month through acts of Ibadah like charity, prayer, and recitation of the Qur’an.

Eid al-Adha and Qurbani

Eid ul-Adha, celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah after Hajj, honours Prophet Ibrahim's (عليه السلام) willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (عليه السلام), in obedience to Allah عزَّ وجلَّ. Muslims commemorate this act by performing Qurbani, the meat is shared with family, friends, and those in need, ensuring the blessings of Eid are spread.

For those unable to perform Qurbani due to legal or logistical constraints, they can donate their Qurbani to trusted organisations like Blackburn UK Trust. We ensure that your Qurbani is carried out according to Islamic guidelines, with the meat reaching those who need it most.

The Day of Arafah

The Day of Arafah, which falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, holds immense spiritual importance for Muslims. On this day, pilgrims performing Hajj gather at the plain of Arafat to engage in prayer, supplication, and seek forgiveness from Allah عزَّ وجلَّ. It is a day marked by divine mercy, and fasting on this day is considered to atone for sins committed in the past year and those to come.

Charity during Dhul Hijjah

Charity is one of the most beloved acts to Allah عزَّ وجلَّ, especially during the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims are encouraged to give generously to those in need, knowing that their good deeds during these days will be multiplied.

Giving in the Spirit of Eid

Eid al-Adha and the entire month of Dhul Hijjah offer a time for Muslims to support the less fortunate. Donating Qurbani, providing for the poor, and offering help to those in need are all acts of kindness that will bring immense rewards.

Ways to Increase Your Rewards During Dhul Hijjah

The sacred days of Dhul Hijjah offer numerous opportunities to earn spiritual rewards, regardless of whether you are taking part in Hajj or observing from afar. Some important practices to consider include:

• Engaging in Dhikr and reciting the Qur'an
• Performing acts of worship and giving to charity

Conclusion