The Most Beloved Days to Allah
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most sacred and blessed days in Islam, during which righteous deeds are especially beloved to Allah.
The Virtue of These Days
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.' The Companions asked: 'Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?' He replied: 'Not even Jihad, except for a man who went out with his self and his wealth and came back with nothing' (Bukhari 969, Ibn Majah 1727).
The Day of 'Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah)
The 9th day is the Day of 'Arafah, the most virtuous day of the year. For those not performing Hajj, fasting on this day carries immense rewards.
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'Fasting the Day of 'Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year' (Muslim 1162, Abu Dawud 2425).
Important Note: Those performing Hajj should NOT fast on the Day of 'Arafah as the Prophet ﷺ did not fast on that day during Hajj.
Recommended Acts During These Ten Days:
- Fasting: Fast as many days as possible, especially the 9th (Day of 'Arafah)
- Takbir & Dhikr: Increase saying:
• Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
• La ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah)
• Alhamdulillah (All praise is for Allah)
• Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah) - Charity: Give generously, as charity is multiplied in these days
- Recitation of Quran: Increase your recitation and reflection
- Seeking Forgiveness: Make abundant istighfar
- Good Deeds: Maintain family ties, be kind to others, and perform righteous acts
Special Note for Those with Udhiyah (Sacrifice):
If you intend to offer a sacrifice, do not cut your hair or nails from the 1st of Dhul-Hijjah until after the sacrifice, as stated by the Prophet ﷺ (Muslim 1977).
The Wisdom
Allah swears by these days in the Quran: 'By the dawn, and by the ten nights' (Qur'an 89:1-2). Scholars unanimously agree these ten nights refer to the first ten of Dhul-Hijjah.
Reference: https://islamqa.info/en/answers/49042