As Dhul Hijjah approached, Muslims worldwide look forward to this blessed season with anticipation and hope. It’s a sacred time to reconnect with our Creator, increase in good deeds, and reflect on our purpose. The Sahabah (companions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) are our greatest role models. Their actions during Dhul Hijjah were full of sincerity, devotion, and determination.
By following their example, we can make the most of these special days and spiritually elevate ourselves.
Importance of Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah is the 12th month of the Islamic calendar and marks the season of Hajj—the pilgrimage to Makkah. It’s one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months… among them are four sacred” (Qur’an 9:36)
But what truly makes Dhul Hijjah shine is its first ten days. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days.” (Bukhari)
These are the best days of the entire year — a divine opportunity for good deeds to be multiplied.
Key Days and Acts of Worship
Here’s a key days of Dhul Hijjah breakdown:
| Day | Significance | Recommended Acts |
| 1-9 | First nine days of Dhul Hijjah | Fasting, additional prayers |
| 9 | Day of Arafah | Fasting, supplication |
| 10 | Eid al-Adha | Sacrifice, Eid prayers, unity & Joy |
The Day of Arafah is a highlight. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah, I hope, will expiate for the year before and the year after.” (Muslim)
How the Sahabah Prepared Spiritually
The Sahabah would prepare for Dhul Hijjah like they prepared for Ramadan. They didn’t just go with the flow—they were intentional. Their worship increased, their hearts softened, and their actions reflected their deep connection with Allah.
They would fast, increase in dhikr, give sadaqah, and pray Qiyam (night prayers). Their lives were examples of how to seize spiritual opportunities.
Fasting: The Sunnah of the Prophet & Sahabah
Fasting the first nine days, especially the Day of Arafah, was a valued act of the Sahabah. Even if someone cannot fast all nine, aiming for a few – especially the 9th – is highly rewarding.
If fasting during the British summer is tough, try these tips:
- Suhoor: Include complex carbs and hydrating foods
- Iftar: Start with dates and water, followed by light, balanced meals
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours
- Conserve energy: Avoid intense physical tasks during fasting hours
Dhikr and Takbeer: Loud and Proud Remembrance
Dhikr is at the heart of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. These are days in which remembrance is not just encouraged — it’s beloved to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said,
“There are no days greater in the sight of Allah, nor days in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days. So recite plenty of Tahlil (لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ), Takbeer (اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ), and Tahmeed (اَلْـحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ).” (Ahmad)
The Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) would uplift entire communities with the sound of Takbeer.
From Fajr on the 9th to ‘Asr on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah, both men and women are encouraged to proclaim the Takbeeraat of Tashreeq audibly after every obligatory prayer:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، وَلِلّٰهِ الْـحَمْدُ
Allāhu Akbar, Allāhu Akbar, Lā ilāha illAllāh, Wallāhu Akbar, Allāhu Akbar, wa lillāhil-ḥamd
And above all, know that the simple act of remembering Allah can be the key to unlocking His mercy, closeness, and Paradise itself.
Dhul Hijjah Checklist
Night Worship (Qiyam) and Tahajjud
The Sahabah deeply valued Qiyam al-Layl. They would adjust their sleep, nap earlier, and wake before Fajr to pray. It wasn’t about the length of the prayers, but about the sincerity.
Start simple:
- Begin with two rak’ahs
- Make heartfelt dua
- Recite Qur’an slowly
Over time, increase your night prayers. The stillness of the night brings calmness to the soul and deep connection with Allah.
Qur’an Recitation and Reflection (Tadabbur)
The Sahabah’s lives revolved around the Qur’an. In Dhul Hijjah, we should reconnect with the divine words.
Try this:
- Set a goal: a few verses, pages, or a full juz per day.
- Reflect on meanings (Tadabbur) using a translation or tafsir.
- Use apps or audio recitations to help.
Reading with understanding brings the Qur’an alive and makes your connection more meaningful.
Charity: Giving Like the Sahabah
The Sahabah were known for their generosity—not just in wealth, but in time, care, and kindness. During Dhul Hijjah, increase your giving:
- Support Qurbani projects to feed those in need
- Give sadaqah in any form – money, food, or service
- Smile, help a neighbour, or share knowledge—it’s all charity
“Every good deed is a charity.” (Muslim)
Qurbani: The Legacy of Ibrahim
Qurbani, or Udhiyah, is a powerful act of worship. It honours the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim’s submission to Allah. The Sahabah took this ritual seriously—choosing the best animals, ensuring it was done properly, and distributing meat fairly.
Best practices for Qurbani:
- Choose healthy, eligible animals.
- Perform the sacrifice with sincerity and compassion.
- Share the meat: one-third for you, one-third for friends & family, one-third for the poor.
Final Reminder: Keep the Momentum Going
Dhul Hijjah is not just about ten days—it’s about starting something that lasts. The Sahabah didn’t stop after Eid. They continued their devotion throughout the year.
So make a worship plan. Reflect. Set goals. Take action. And stay consistent.
“No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijjah).” (Bukhari)
Let’s revive the Sahabah spirit in our lives—not just for Dhul Hijjah, but for the whole year.