The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most beloved days to Allah. In fact, the Prophet ﷺ said, “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” These days are a gift—an opportunity to renew our connection with Allah, increase in good deeds, and earn immense rewards, even greater than those in the days of Ramadan.
To make the most of these days, begin with intention. Remind yourself why these days matter. Allah chose them. They include the day of Arafah, the Hajj pilgrimage, and Eid al-Adha. They’re filled with spiritual history and divine mercy. Make a sincere intention to honor these days with your time, energy, and heart.
One of the most powerful acts you can do is increase in dhikr. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged saying “Allahu Akbar, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illallah, and SubhanAllah” often during these days. You can recite them while walking, cooking, driving, or resting. Let your tongue stay moist with remembrance, and let your heart stay connected through reflection.
Fasting during these days, especially on the Day of Arafah, is highly recommended. For those not performing Hajj, fasting on Arafah wipes out the sins of the past year and the coming year. If you can’t fast all nine days, aim for as many as you can, starting with even just one. Every fast is a step closer to Allah and a shield for your soul.
Prayer is another way to elevate your worship. Add sunnah prayers, protect your five daily prayers with care, and try to pray them on time and with presence. Use these days to strengthen your relationship with salah and to ask Allah for the ability to maintain it after these ten days have passed.
Charity also holds great value during these days. Give whatever you can, whether big or small. Support those in need, help a cause close to your heart, or simply bring ease to someone’s life. Remember, even a smile is charity. Make your generosity a reflection of your gratitude for the blessings Allah has given you.
Reading and reflecting on the Quran during these days is another powerful act. Even a few verses daily, with reflection, can open your heart. Let the words of Allah guide your intentions, purify your thoughts, and remind you of your purpose. Every letter you read is rewarded, especially in these sacred days.
Don’t forget the importance of dua. The days of Dhul-Hijjah, especially Arafah, are a time when duas are accepted. Pour your heart out to Allah. Ask for forgiveness, guidance, strength, and barakah. Make dua for your family, the Ummah, and for those suffering around the world. Your voice matters, and Allah hears it.
Lastly, remember to prepare for Eid al-Adha and the sacrifice with sincerity. The spirit of this Eid is not just celebration—it’s submission. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and reminds us to put Allah first in our lives. If you’re offering a qurbani, do it with a clean heart and renew your intention to draw closer to Allah.
These ten days are a sacred chance to realign our hearts, earn immense rewards, and draw closer to our Creator. Use them well. Whether through prayer, fasting, charity, dhikr, or simply choosing good over harmful habits—every effort counts. These days are not just a gift, but a gateway to lasting change, if we meet them with purpose and devotion.