Dhu Al-Hijjah is one of the four sacred months and one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar.

This month holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims due to its immense virtues and blessed days that bring great rewards.

But what is Dhul-Hijjah? What are the virtues of its days? And how can we make the most of this blessed month through charitable deeds?

What is Dhu Al-Hijjah?

Dhu Al-Hijjah is unlike any other month! Its blessings are most evident in the first ten days, which are filled with unparalleled opportunities to draw closer to Allah and increase in good deeds and blessings. During this month, Muslims race to perform righteous deeds and prepare for the days of Hajj. Allah Almighty says:
“By the dawn, and by the ten nights” [Al-Fajr: 1-2], where Ibn Kathir (may Allah have mercy on him) explained that the ten nights refer to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Furthermore, Allah says:
“And mention the name of Allah on known days” [Al-Hajj: 28], which Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) interpreted as the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.

The Virtues of Dhu Al-Hijjah

The first ten days of Dhu Al-Hijjah are among the most beloved days to Allah. Allah swears by them in the Qur’an, saying:
“By the dawn, and by the ten nights” [Surah Al-Fajr: 1-2].

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) also emphasized their importance, saying:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days” (referring to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).

Key Days of Dhu Al-Hijjah:

The Day of Tarwiyah (8th day):

Pilgrims prepare for the rites of Hajj.

The Day of Arafah (9th day):

The greatest day, where sins are forgiven for those fasting and supplicating.

The Day of Sacrifice (10th day):

Eid al-Adha, a day that marks the most significant Islamic ritual—Qurbani (sacrifice).

How to Make the Most of Dhu Al-Hijjah

To maximize the blessings of this sacred month, Muslims are encouraged to strive in acts of worship and good deeds, such as:

Fasting:

It is recommended to fast the first nine days, particularly the Day of Arafah.

Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr and Takbeer):

Frequently recite:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd.”

Reciting the Qur’an:

Dedicate time to the recitation and reflection upon the Qur’an.

Charity and Donations:

One of the greatest deeds to draw closer to Allah.

Join the Path of Goodness in the Charity of Dhu Al-Hijjah

Dhu Al-Hijjah presents a unique opportunity to earn lasting rewards.

At the International Waqf Fund, we invite you to join the initiative of giving during this sacred month. Contribute to the Sustainable Qurbani Share, a form of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity) that provides a sacrificial offering every year.

By investing in a Qurbani Waqf Share, your donation is utilized to generate sustainable returns, ensuring that one Qurbani is performed year after year and benefits people indefinitely.

This way, your contribution continues to bring rewards long after Eid al-Adha has passed.

You can also invest in other ongoing charitable projects, such as shares supporting healthcare, education, livelihood, water provision, or orphan sponsorship.