The Virtue of the First Ten Days of Dhul-Hijjah

There is a narration from Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Among the days in which righteous deeds are performed, there is no day more beloved to Allah than the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah." The Companions asked, "O Messenger of Allah, are the days of Jihad in the cause of Allah not even more beloved?" The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied, "The days of Jihad in the cause of Allah are not equal to these days. However, if a person goes out for Jihad, sacrificing his life and wealth for the sake of Allah, and does not return with anything (i.e., is martyred), then indeed it is a superior action."

(Al Tirmidhi, Hadith 757)

For the purification of the human heart, certain days hold special importance in the religion of Islam. The actions performed during these days carry greater rewards and outcomes compared to regular days. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specifically highlighted the virtues of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. There are several reasons for the significance of these days.

These days serve as a reminder of the deeds and actions of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and Prophet Ismail (Ishmael), peace be upon them, who established the principles of monotheism and played a crucial role in the triumph of the movement of focus on the Almighty (haneefiat). These days are a commemoration of the symbols of Allah and the acts of Hajj, showcasing devotion and sacrifice in both outward and inward aspects. The pilgrim's journey to the sacred places signifies their deep spiritual connection and willingness to offer sacrifices.

During these ten days, Muslims demonstrate their commitment by sacrificing an animal, symbolizing their determination to sacrifice their lives for the cause of religion. It shows that if needed for the triumph of faith, Muslims are ready to offer their lives in various forms of sacrifice. Muslims worldwide gather during these days to celebrate Eid al-Adha and participate in the assembly of Hajj in Arafat and Muzdalifah, displaying the honor, strength, and unity of Islam.

Overall, these days hold great importance in terms of the remembrance of righteous actions, the performance of Hajj rituals, and the manifestation of devotion and sacrifice. They serve as a reminder of the principles of faith, the history of prophetic figures, and the unity and strength of the Muslim community.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of the deeds performed during these ten days even more than the act of jihad because the purpose of jihad is the victory of the religion, which is achieved through the actions performed during these ten days by the followers of the faith. Therefore, the worship of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah was given greater significance compared to the competition of jihad. Regardless, during these ten days, one should pay full attention and engage in acts of worship and other righteous deeds with unity, so that the desired objectives set by Allah for the believers can be attained.