First 10 days of Dhul Hijjah

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are regarded as some of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar. Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic year, holds particular significance during these days due to their profound spiritual rewards, opportunities for good deeds, and their association with Hajj (the pilgrimage) and Eid-ul-Adha.

What Makes These Ten Days Unique?

Allah's Oath in the Quran

In Surah Al-Fajr (89:1-2), Allah states:

“By the dawn, and by the ten nights.”

Many scholars interpret these “ten nights” as referring to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, underscoring their exceptional significance.
The Most Favorable Days for Worship and Good Deeds
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) remarked:

"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." (Bukhari)

This indicates that acts of worship such as prayer, fasting, and charity are immensely rewarded during this period.
The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) - The Most Important Day
The Day of Arafah is the pinnacle of Hajj. It is also recognized as a day of forgiveness, as the Prophet (PBUH) stated:

“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the past year and the coming year.” (Muslim)

Eid-ul-Adha (10th Dhul Hijjah)

The tenth day marks Eid-ul-Adha, the festival of sacrifice, which honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering faith and obedience to Allah.

Recommended Acts of Worship During This Period:

1. Fasting: Particularly on the 9th (Day of Arafah) for those not undertaking Hajj.
2. Increased Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Reciting Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah), and Tahleel (La ilaha illallah).
3. Prayer & Quran Recitation: Engaging in additional prayers (nafl) and reading the Quran.
4. Charity & Good Deeds: Assisting others and giving Sadaqah (charity).
5. Animal Sacrifice (Qurbani): If financially feasible, performing Qurbani on Eid-ul-Adha.

Conclusion:

The initial ten days of Dhul Hijjah present a remarkable opportunity for Muslims to enhance their good actions, pursue forgiveness, and develop spiritually. Engaging in fasting, prayer, charity, or the remembrance of Allah during this period amplifies the rewards of each deed, establishing these days as some of the most significant moments for worship in Islam.