Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah gives you have the opportunity to renew your spiritual connection through fasting. By abstaining from food, drink, and worldly pleasures during daylight hours for the month, you gain valuable insights into yourself and strengthen your devotion. The rewards for fasting are immense during this time.
Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah allows you to emulate the Prophet Muhammad’s own fasting during this month. Following in his footsteps brings you closer to Allah and the teachings of Islam. With each pang of hunger and thirst, you are reminded of your purpose in this world and your dependence on the Creator. Your fast helps purify your body and soul, making you a fit vessel for the blessings and mercy of the Almighty.
Though fasting for an entire month requires discipline and sacrifice, the benefits to your faith and character make the effort worthwhile. Use this month to reflect on life’s greater meaning, recite and ponder the Quran, give charity, and pray for forgiveness and guidance. A Month of Mercy awaits you – will you answer the call? Seize this opportunity to nourish your soul as you abstain from nourishment of the body. The rewards of Dhul-Hijjah await.
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The Spiritual Significance of Dhul-Hijjah
The month of Dhul-Hijjah holds special spiritual significance for Muslims. As one of the sacred months in the Islamic calendar, it is a time for reflection and increasing acts of worship.
- Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah, especially on the days of Arafah and Ashura, expiates sins and brings one closer to Allah (SWT). The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Fasting the day of ‘Arafah expiates the sins of two years, the year preceding it and the year following it.”
- Reciting the Qur’an and engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) are virtuous acts during this month. Spending time reading and understanding the Qur’an, and reflecting on its messages, leads to greater guidance and peace. Dhikr, whether through tasbih (praising Allah), tahmid (thanking Allah), or salawat (sending blessings on the Prophet PBUH), cleanses the heart and mind.
- Giving charity and helping those in need is emphasized in Dhul-Hijjah. Donating generously to worthy causes and extending kindness to people around you demonstrates compassion and brings barakah (blessings).
- Performing umrah (lesser pilgrimage) during Dhul-Hijjah, especially in the last ten days, is an opportunity for forgiveness and mercy. For those unable to perform umrah, praying two rak’ahs with the intention of doing umrah in Makkah still earns great reward.
Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah is a sacred opportunity for spiritual renewal. By increasing acts of worship and devotion, one can draw closer to the Creator and gain His pleasure and mercy during this blessed month.
The Virtues of Fasting in the Month of Dhul-Hijjah
Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah offers spiritual benefits and brings one closer to Allah (swt). As one of the sacred months in the Islamic calendar, Dhul-Hijjah is an opportune time to increase acts of worship.
- Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah expiates sins and brings forgiveness. The Prophet (saw) said: “Fasting in the month of Dhul-Hijjah is a shield from Hell.” (At-Tirmidhi)
- Fasting on the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, expiates the sins of two years. The Prophet (saw) said: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year.” (Muslim)
- Fasting in the sacred months, including Dhul-Hijjah, is a righteous deed that brings one closer to Jannah. The Quran says: “The number of months in the sight of Allah is twelve months, so ordained by Him the day He created the heavens and the earth; of them four are sacred. That is the right religion. So wrong not yourselves therein.” (Q9:36)
- fasting in Dhul-Hijjah, specially in the first ten days of this month is recommended as its a way to purify our soul.
In summary, fasting during Dhul-Hijjah, especially the Day of Arafah, offers immense spiritual rewards and divine forgiveness. Take advantage of this sacred month to strengthen your connection with Allah (swt) through fasting and worship. May Allah (swt) accept our good deeds.
Recommended Acts of Worship in Dhul-Hijjah
Fasting
Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah, especially on the “Day of Arafah” (9th Dhul-Qadah), is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Fasting on the day of ‘Arafah expiates the sins of two years, the previous year and the coming year.” (Muslim)
Reciting the Quran
Reciting and reflecting on the Quran during Dhul-Hijjah is virtuous. In particular, reciting Surah Al-Kahf on Fridays, Surah Ad-Dukhan on Saturdays, and Surah Al-Waqi’ah on Mondays and Thursdays. Reciting these surahs grant rewards and protection from trials.
Making Dhikr
Engaging in dhikr, the remembrance of Allah through phrases like ‘SubhanAllah’ (Glory be to Allah), ‘Alhamdulillah’ (All praise is for Allah), and ‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is the Greatest) is recommended. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “There are two words which are dear to the Most Merciful, light on the tongue and heavy on the scale: Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi, Subhan-Allahil-‘Azim (Glory and praise be to Allah, glory be to Allah the Almighty).” (Bukhari)
Giving Charity
Giving charity in Dhul-Hijjah, especially on the Day of ‘Arafah, is virtuous. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Tirmidhi) Donating to help pilgrims, building mosques, digging wells, and supporting scholars and students of knowledge are all good causes.
How to Make the Most of the Last Days of Dhul-Qadah
The final days of Dhul-Qadah, the month preceding Dhul-Hijjah, offer an opportunity to strengthen your connection with Allah and renew your spiritual devotion. During this period, focus on acts of worship and good deeds to make the most of the remaining days before Hajj.
Increase Quran Recitation
Spending time reciting and reflecting on the Quran, the holy book of Islam, is one of the most rewarding acts of worship during Dhul-Qadah. Aim to complete at least one full recitation of the Quran before Dhul-Hijjah begins. Recite with meaning and contemplate the wisdom and lessons in the verses.
Perform Voluntary Prayers
Voluntary prayers, like tahajjud, salat-e-tasbih and tasbeeh, demonstrate your dedication to Allah. Offer extra prayers, especially in the last third of the night. Pray for forgiveness, mercy and guidance.
Give Charity and Help Others
Charitable acts like zakat, sadaqah and helping those in need gain immense reward. Donate money or items to benefit people in your community. Offer assistance to neighbors and friends who require help. Show kindness and spread goodwill.
Fast Mondays and Thursdays
Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is a sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and expiates sins. Fasting in Dhul-Qadah during these days intensifies devotion and brings you closer to Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. If possible, also fast the “White Days” of the Islamic calendar – the 13th, 14th and 15th of each month.
Making the most of the remaining days of Dhul-Qadah through acts of worship and virtue will spiritually prepare you for the Hajj season and allow you to start Dhul-Hijjah with a clean heart and renewed faith. Focus on the Quran, extra prayers, charity and fasting to strengthen your connection with Allah before the month of Hajj begins.
FAQs: Common Questions About Fasting in Dhul-Hijjah
What are the benefits of fasting in Dhul-Hijjah?
Fasting during the month of Dhul-Hijjah offers numerous spiritual and physical benefits:
- It follows the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) who used to fast during this month. By fasting, you are reviving this Sunnah and following in the footsteps of the Prophet (PBUH).
- It expiates sins and wrongdoings. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Fasting the day of ‘Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the previous year and the coming year.” (Muslim)
- It strengthens your faith and brings you closer to Allah (SWT). By depriving yourself of food and drink for the sake of Allah (SWT), you are demonstrating your devotion and obedience to Him.
- It earns abundant rewards. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah.” (Muslim)
What days are recommended for fasting in Dhul-Hijjah?
The most virtuous days for fasting in Dhul-Hijjah are:
- The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Qadah): This is the day before Eid al-Adha. Fasting on this day expiates the sins of two years.
- The Day of Eid (10th Dhul-Hijjah): Although Eid al-Adha is a day of celebration, the Prophet (PBUH) used to fast on this day. Fasting demonstrates that you are focused on the religious significance of the day rather than just the festivities.
- The three days following Eid al-Adha: Fasting these days is like fasting the entire year.
- Mondays and Thursdays: The Prophet (PBUH) recommended fasting on these days. Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays in Dhul-Hijjah is especially virtuous.
- The entire month: For those able, fasting the entire month of Dhul-Hijjah is a righteous deed that carries abundant reward. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Fasting in the month of Dhul-Hijjah is a shield against Hellfire.” (Al-Albani)
Conclusion
As you reflect on the blessings of Dhul-Hijjah, consider embracing the opportunity to fast during this sacred month. By abstaining from food and drink, you open your heart to divine mercy and grace. Purifying your body and soul, fasting helps you gain a deeper appreciation for life’s sustenance and reconnect with your purpose. Let your fast be an act of devotion, drawing you closer to your Creator through patience, humility and gratitude. Though challenging, the rewards of fasting are manifold. May the final days of Dhul-Qadah inspire you to reflect, renew and revive your faith. Discover the profound wisdom, solace and strength that come from fasting with a humble heart.
