Dhul Hijjah

Dhul Hijjah is the 12^th and final month in the Islamic calendar and is known as the month of Hajj. It is the month of pilgrimage, in which Muslims perform Hajj, and also marks other events like the Day of Arafah, Eid Al-Adha, and giving Qurbani. Fighting during this sacred month is forbidden to allow pilgrims to travel to and from Hajj safely.

The other sacred months are Muharram, Rajab, and Dhul Qadah, and in these months, good deeds are more virtuous than in other months. However, good deeds should be practiced all year round to gain the reward of following the sunnah, whereby good deeds are done regularly.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah (SWT) than these ten days” (Bukhari). This shows the importance of the first 10 days of this month, and it is recommended to fast on these days: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “One fast during these days is equal to the fasting of one complete year, and the worship of one night during this period is equal to the worship in the Laylatul Qadr” (Tirmidhi).

When is Dhul Hijjah?

Dhul Hijjah starts when the moon is sighted, and this is expected to be on 7 June 2024. Hajj begins on 14 June 2024, and the Day of Arafah will fall on the 15^th of Dhul Hijjah. Eid Al-Adha will be on 16^th or 17^th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the moon sighting.

How is Dhul Hijjah Observed?

Dhul Hijjah is often observed with increased worship, dua, dhikr, and Hajj. Furthermore, during this month, Muslims must give Qurbani, if they are able to, as a way of commemorating the sacrifice of Ibrahim (AS), who was ready to willingly sacrifice his son, Ismail, for the sake of Allah (SWT). Qurbani must be given on the 10^th, 11^th, or 12^th days of Dhul Hijjah and must be after Eid Prayer for Eid Al-Adha.

What Happened During Dhul Hijjah?

There have been several events that have taken place during the holy month of Dhul Hijjah. One was that Hamza bin Abdul-Muttalib (RA), the uncle of the Prophet (PBUH), accepted Islam, and three days later, Umar (RA) did the same.

In 10 AH of Dhul Hijjah, the Prophet (PBUH) gave his farewell sermon. Allah (SWT) then revealed, “This day, I have perfected for you your religion and completed upon you my blessing and I have chosen for you Islam as (your) religion.”

It was also during Dhul Hijjah that Umar (RA) and Uthman (RA) were both killed. Umar (RA) was stabbed while leading Fajr prayer and passed away three days later, and Uthman (RA) was martyred in his home by assassins.

Giving Charity in Dhul Hijjah

Giving charity, as well as other forms of worship during this month can be very rewarding. Good deeds in Dhul Hijjah are more virtuous than in other months, so giving charity will ensure you reap the rewards, Insha’Allah. Donate to UKIM this Dhul Hijjah.