We are in the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic calendar. Though time is a precious entity and holds great value for us, yet there are few days which are greater in weightage than the other ones. Allah, the exalted lord provides a myriad of opportunities for the believers to make best use of these days in order to attain His pleasure, mercy and blessings. Among such days are the blessed days of Dhu’l-Hijjah which hold a greater significance. In the initial verse of Surah Fajr(Chapter 89, 1-2) Allah takes an oath by the ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah. “”By the dawn; by the ten nights.” The ten days indicate those falling in the first half of the month of Hajj, according to the scholars of earlier and later generations. The 10th day of the month is the day of sacrifice, which marks the sunnah (Tradition) of Prophet Ibrahim (May peace be upon him). Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is also performed during the days, adding to the virtue and importance of these days. Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” The people asked, “Not even jihad for the sake of Allaah?” He said, “Not even Jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 2/457). Furthermore, it is recommended by the Beloved Prophet of Allah to fast on the day of Arafah (9thDhu’l-Hijjah), when Allah perfected his religion and the messenger of Allah delivered his last sermon. On the 10th day, Eid is celebrated across the world and the sacrifice of animals is offered by the Muslims. Let’s strive to make these days as productive as possible and attain the pleasure of our creator. Amin!
FRIDAY SPECIAL EDITORIAL: 10 Most Blessed Days of Holy Dhu’l-Hijjah
