Summary
| Dhul Hijjah 2024 start date | Thursday, 6th June, in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the Middle East. Friday 7th June in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh |
| Last date to cut nails and hair | Wednesday 5th June before Maghrib in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf. Thursday 6th June before Maghrib in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh |
| Major events in Ashra Zil Hajj | Hajj starts from 8th Zul Hijjah and ends on 13th Zul Hijjah – Mina: 8th Zul Hijja – Arafah: 9th Zul Hijjah – Muzdalifah: 10th Zul Hijjah – Sacrifice/Qurbani: 10th Zul Hijjah – Jamarat Rami: 10, 11, 12 Zul Hijjah – Tawaf e Ziarat: 10th Dhul Hijjah |
| Arafat Fasting | – 9th Dhul Hijjah, 14th June 2024 in Saudi Arabia – 15th June 2024 in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh |
| Best Zikr in Ashra Dhul Hijjah | سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ ، والْحَمْدُللّهِ ، وَ لا اِلهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ ، وَ اللّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، وَ لا حَوْلَ وَ لا قُوَّةَ اِلَّا بِاللّهِ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْ |
| Ayyam e Tashreeq | Starts from Fajr of 9th Dhul Hijjah – ends on Asr of 13th Dhul Hijjah. Recite: اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْ |
| Virtues of Dhul Hijjah | – Every fast from 1st till 8th Dhul Hijjah equals fasting of one year – Fasting on Arafat Day expels sins from the previous year and next year. – Every night in this Ashra equals Shab e Qadr |
The month of Dhul Hijjah has a special place in my heart.
It not only contains the most beloved days of Allah SWT but also reminds me of my life’s most memorable days when I performed Hajj.
So, whenever Dhul Hijjah arrives, my heart and mind go back to the plains of Arafat, my camp in Mina, and the night of Muzdalifah that we spent under the open sky.
Dhul Hijjah also holds great significance in the Islamic calendar, particularly its first ten days (Ashra e Zil Hajj). Muslims around the world eagerly wait for this blessed month to engage in various acts of worship, including Hajj, to maximize their rewards.
In this comprehensive guide, I will explore the importance of Dhul Hijjah, the date of Dhul Hijja in 2024, the virtues of its first ten days, and the recommended actions you should perform during this blessed time.
- What Is Dhul Hijjah?
- When Is Dhul Hijjah 2024 Starting?
- Ashra e Zil Hajj Ke Fazail Aur Ibadat In Urdu
- Why Are The First 10 Days Of Dhul Hijjah Important?
- What To Do In Dhul Hijjah | Sunnahs Of Ashra e Zill Hajj
- How To Pray In Ashra e Zil Hajj | An Optional Guideline
- Are You Ready To Benefit From Ashra e Zil Hajj (10 Days Of Dhul Hijjah)
What Is Dhul Hijjah?
Dhul Hijjah (Zil Hajj) is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is also among the four most virtuous months of the Islamic year when even war is prohibited.
Dhul Hijja has immense spiritual significance, primarily due to the annual pilgrimage known as Hajj, which takes place during this time in the holy city of Mecca on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah and the Day of Arafah on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. Millions of Muslims from all corners of the globe gather at Hajj to fulfill this fifth pillar of Islam, reinforcing their faith and seeking closeness to Allah.
While Muslims who aren’t performing Hajj, spend time in extra prayers during Dhul Hijjah, including fasting, nafl namaz, and sadaqah to gain the pleasure of Allah SWT.
We will discuss the specific ibadaat and the sunnahs you should follow to make the most of this month.
When Is Dhul Hijjah 2024 Starting?
Dhul Hijjah 2024 is expected to start on 6th June, Thursday in Saudi Arabia.
Here’s the expected starting date of Zil Hajj for other countries with large Muslim populations.
- UAE – Thursday 6th June 2024
- Pakistan – Friday 7th June 2024
- India – Friday 7th June 2024
- Indonesia – Thursday 6th June 2024
However, the exact start date is determined by the sighting of the new moon, as per the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims eagerly anticipate the arrival of this sacred month to embark on a journey of worship and devotion.
Dhul Hijjah 1445 Dates | 20241 Calendar
Dhul Hijjah 1445 calendar lists the key dates and important events, including the commencement of the month, the Day of Arafah, Eid al-Adha, and other significant days. By following the calendar, you can schedule your acts of worship and make the most of this blessed month.
But please remember that these are approximate dates because the commencement of Dhul Hijjah depends on moonsighting in your country.
So, do consult your local mosques or Islamic centers to confirm the date of Dhul Hijjah.
Dhul Hijjah 1445 Hijri Calendar With Gregorian Dates (Saudi Arabia, +1 Day for Pakistan/India)
| Hijri date (Hijri Year 1445) | Gregorian date (Year 2024) | Day |
| 1/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 6, 2024 | Thursday |
| 2/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 7, 2024 | Friday |
| 3/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 8, 2024 | Saturday |
| 4/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 9, 2024 | Sunday |
| 5/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 10, 2024 | Monday |
| 6/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 11, 2024 | Tuesday |
| 7/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 12, 2024 | Wednesday |
| 8/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 13, 2024 | Thursday |
| 9/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 (Day of Arafah) | June 14, 2024 | Friday |
| 10/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445(Eid Al-Adha) | June 15, 2024 | Saturday |
| 11/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 16, 2024 | Sunday |
| 12/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 17, 2024 | Monday |
| 13/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 18, 2024 | Tuesday |
| 14/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 19, 2024 | Wednesday |
| 15/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 20, 2024 | Thursday |
| 16/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 21, 2024 | Friday |
| 17/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 22, 2024 | Saturday |
| 18/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 23, 2024 | Sunday |
| 19/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 24, 2024 | Monday |
| 20/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 25, 2024 | Tuesday |
| 21/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 26, 2024 | Wednesday |
| 22/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 27, 2024 | Thursday |
| 23/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 28, 2024 | Friday |
| 24/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 29, 2024 | Saturday |
| 25/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | June 30, 2024 | Sunday |
| 26/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | July 01, 2024 | Monday |
| 27/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | July 02, 2024 | Tuesday |
| 28/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | July 03, 2024 | Wednesday |
| 29/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | July 04, 2024 | Thursday |
| 30/Dhu al-Hijjah/1445 | July 05, 2024 | Friday |
Every day in the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah is important. However, the following days are even more significant:
- The day of Arafah – 10 Dhul Hijjah
- Laylatul Tarweeha, the night of 8th Dhul Hijjah
- Laylatul Arafah, the night of 9th Dhul Hijjah
- Laylatul Nahr, the night of 10th Dhul Hijjah (Chand Raat of Bakrid)
Ashra e Zil Hajj Ke Fazail Aur Ibadat In Urdu
Zil Hajj ke mahinay kay pehle 10 dino ko Ashra e Zil hajj kehtay hain.
Ye Allah taala ke mehboob tareen din hain kyu ke in dino main Hajj jesa azeem amal aur qurbani jesi ba barkat ibadat sar anjam di jati hai.
Ayye isashray ke baray main jantay hain
Ashra e Zil Hajj Kab Se Shuru Hai
Pakistan, India, Aur Bangladesh main Ashra e Zil Hajj Friday 7th June 2024 se shuru hoga.
Saudi Arab main Ashra e Zil Hajj 6th June 2024 Thursday se shuru ho jaega.
Ashra e Zil Hajj Kay Rozay
Ashra e Zill Hajj kay bay shumar fazail main se aik bari fazilat ye hai kay iski 1 se 8 tareekh tak har rozay ka sawab 1 saal kay rozo kay barabar hai.
Jab kay 9th Zil Hajj Youm e Arfa kay roza 1 saal guzishta aur 1 saal ainda kay gunah muaaf ho jatay hain
Takbeer e Tashreeq Kab Se Parhni Hai?
Takbeer e Tahsreeq ye hai kay har Musalman mard o aurat farz namaz ke baad ye kalimat kahay
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَم
Mard ye kalimaat biland awaz se kahengay jabkay khawateen ahista awaz se.
Ayyam e Tashreeq 9th Dhul Hijjah ki Fajr Namaz se start ho kar 13th Zil Hajj ki Asr tak hain, yani is doran takbeer tashreeq har farz namaz ke baad parhna wajib hai.
Ashra e Zil Hajj Ki Ibadat Kya Hain
Ashra e Zil Hajj Ibadat ka behtreen mosam hai kyuke ye Allah taala ke pasandeeda ayyam hain.
In dino ki khaas ibadat ye hain
- 1st Zil Hajj se 8th Zil Hajj roza rakhna
- Ziada se ziada waqt Ba Wuzu rahain
- 9th Zil Hajj Youm e Arfa ka Roza khaas tor par rakhna
- Chaltay phirtay zikr o azkaar ka ehtimam karna khaas tor pe
سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ ، والْحَمْدُللّهِ ، وَ لا اِلهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ ، وَ اللّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، وَ لا حَوْلَ وَ لا قُوَّةَ اِلَّا بِاللّهِ - Is ke alawa quran e paak ki tilawat ka mamool
- Tamam namazain jamat se masjid main (khawateen ghar main)
- Maghrib ki namaz ke baad 6 rakat nafil awwabeen ki niyat se ada kar lain (aam namazo ki tarha ada hongay)
- Isha kay baad tahajjud ka ehtimam karain (Witr se pehle 2-4 rakat tahajjud ki niyat se parh lain)
- Raat ke akhri hissay main uth kar tahajjud ada karain aur dua mangay.
- Agar qurbani wajib hai 10th Dhul Hijjah ko qurbani karain.
Why Are The First 10 Days Of Dhul Hijjah Important?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the most virtuous days and nights in Islam (even more than Ramadan, according to several Ahadith). They are referred to as the “Ashra e Zil Hajj” or the “Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah.”
Several significant events happen during these days. First of all, it marks the beginning of the ten most blessed days and nights of the year (I will explain why later). Then from the 8th Dhul Hijjah, the Hajj rituals formally begin as the pilgrims move towards Mina. The next day is Youm Ul Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah), when the pilgrims gather in Maidan e Arafat where the Hajj Khutbah is delivered in Masjid e Nimra. This Khutba is inspired by the Khutba e Hajjatul Wida by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. And finally, the next day (10th Dhul Hijjah) marks the beginning of Eid ul Adha, the festival to mark the completion of Hajj.
It is also worth remembering that Dhul Hijjah comes two months after Ramadan, the month of fasting.
What’s the relationship between Dhul Hijjah and Ramadan?
Many scholars say that in Ramadan, Allah SWT gives us the opportunity to repent from our sins and fix our lives according to the teaching of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Once we do that, He then invites us for Hajj to reward us even more. Those who do not have resources for Hajj can gain the blessings of this month by praying in its first 10 days.
Let’s quickly see what the Quran, Hadith, and scholars say about Dhul Hijjah.
Importance of Dhul Hijjah In the Quran
The Quran emphasizes the significance of Dhul Hijjah and its first ten days through various verses.
Allah says in the Quran,
وَٱلْفَجْرِ ١وَلَيَالٍ عَشْرٍۢ ٢
Translation: “By the dawn and by the ten nights” (Surah Al-Fajr, 89:1-2).
Scholars interpret these “ten nights” as the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, signifying their immense value and blessings.
Every moment of these first ten days and nights is immensely valuable and holds numerous blessings for the believers. This is why you should look to spend as much of this time in various forms of prayers and strictly avoid all types of sins.
Hadith On The Virtues Of The First 10 Days Of Dhul Hijjah (Ashra e Zil Hajj)
The hadith literature provides us with profound insights into the virtues of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Here are a few sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about the blessings and virtues of Dhul Hijjah,
أَفْضَلُ أَيَّامِ الدُّنْيَا أَيَّامُ الْعَشْرِ
Translation: “The best days in this world are the (first) ten days (of Dhul Hijja).” [Musnad Bazzar]
مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ الْعَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللَّهِ مِنْ هَذِهِ الْأَيَّامِ
Translation: There is no virtue more to the liking of Allah in any day than in these days (i.e. the first ten days of Dhul Hijja) [Bukhari]
مَا مِنْ عَمَلٍ أَزْكَى عِنْدَ اللَّهِ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ وَلَا أَعْظَمَ أَجْرًا مِنْ خَيْرٍ يَعْمَلُهُ فِي عَشْرِ الْأَضْحَى
Translation: There are no actions purer and more wholesome with Allah, and none greater in their reward than the good that one does in the Ten [days of] of Dhul Hijja. [Darami]
Even acts of (optional/nafil) jihad for the sake of Allah do not compare to the immense rewards garnered during these blessed days.
Significance Of Ashra e Zil Hajj According To Sahaba And Scholars:
The Sahaba (companions of the Prophet) and Islamic scholars throughout history have acknowledged and emphasized the importance of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. They engaged in acts of worship and encouraged others to do the same. The Sahaba considered these days to be the best days of the year and dedicated themselves to prayer, fasting, and seeking forgiveness.
Here are the views of renowned Muslim scholars about the Ashra e Zil Hajj based on their understanding of the Quran and Hadith.
- Mufti Taqi Usmani said: “The ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the most virtuous days of the year, and the best of them is the Day of Arafa. It is recommended to fast on these days, to increase in supplication, and to do righteous deeds.”
- Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen said: “The ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a great opportunity for Muslims to worship Allah and to earn His rewards. Muslims should make the most of these days by fasting, praying, reciting the Quran, giving charity, and doing other good deeds.”
- Shaykh al-Albani said: “The ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the best days of the year, and the best of them is the Day of Arafa. Muslims should make the most of these days by doing righteous deeds and seeking the forgiveness of Allah.”
Many scholars believe Ashra e Zil Hajj is so virtuous that fasting
What To Do In Dhul Hijjah | Sunnahs Of Ashra e Zill Hajj
To fully benefit from the virtues of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims are encouraged to engage in various acts of worship and righteous deeds during the first ten days. Here are some recommended actions:
Cutting Nails And Hair
One of the recommended acts during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah is to refrain from cutting nails and hair. This practice is based on the narration of Umm Salamah (R.A.), wherein the Prophet ﷺ advised not to remove any hair or nails from the sunset of the last day of Dhul Qadah until the sacrifice is offered on Eid day. This symbolizes a state of readiness and dedication to the rituals and acts of worship.
“ مَنْ رَأَى مِنْكُمْ هِلاَلَ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ فَأَرَادَ أَنْ يُضَحِّيَ فَلاَ يَقْرَبَنَّ لَهُ شَعَرًا وَلاَ ظُفْرًا ” .
It was narrated from Umm Salamah that the Messenger of Allah said
“Whoever among you sees the new crescent of Dhul-Hijjah and wants to offer a sacrifice, let him not take anything from his hair or nails.”
However, remember that this is only a Nafil act, and there’s no obligation to follow it. If you think you need a haircut or if your nails or mustache are too long, get them trimmed even during Ashra e Zil Hajj.
Plan ahead and ensure you trim your nails and hair before the sunset of the last day of Dhul Qadah to observe this recommended practice.
The Last Day For Cutting Nails And Hair Before Ashra e Zil Hajj
If you intend to perform Qurbani, it is a sunnah to not cut your nails and hair after seeing the Zil Hajj moon. This way, you can emulate the appearance of the Hajj Pilgrims in Ihram, who refrain from cutting their nails and hair.
The last date for cutting nails and hair is 29 Dhul Qaadha (or 30th Dhul Qaadha if the moon is not sighted earlier).
For the most significant Muslim countries, 29th Dhul Qaadha would correspond to the following dates.
- Saudi Arabia – Wednesday 5th June 2024
- UAE – Wednesday 5th June 2024
- Pakistan – Thursday 6th June 2024
- India – Thursday 6th June 2024
- Indonesia – Wednesday 5th June 2024
Irrespective of your country, check with your local mosques or Islamic centers to know the exact Islamic date according to your local moonsighting.
Fasting In Ashra e Zil Hajj
Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah holds immense rewards and virtues. According to several hadith of the Holy Prophet ﷺ fasting in Ashra e Zil Hajj is equivalent to a year’s fast.
قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ “ مَا مِنْ أَيَّامِ الدُّنْيَا أَيَّامٌ، أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللَّهِ سُبْحَانَهُ أَنْ يُتَعَبَّدَ لَهُ فِيهَا، مِنْ أَيَّامِ الْعَشْرِ. وَإِنَّ صِيَامَ يَوْمٍ فِيهَا لَيَعْدِلُ صِيَامَ سَنَةٍ، وَلَيْلَةٍ فِيهَا بِلَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ ”
Translation: There are no days in this world during which worship is more beloved to Allah, Glorious is He, than the (first) ten days (of Dhul Hijjah). Fasting one of these days is equivalent to fasting for one year, and one night of them is equal to Lailatul-Qadr (Sunan Ibn Majah 1728)
In another Hadith it is mentioned that the Prophet used to fast during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
أَخْبَرَنِي زَكَرِيَّا بْنُ يَحْيَى، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا شَيْبَانُ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو عَوَانَةَ، عَنِ الْحُرِّ بْنِ صَيَّاحٍ، عَنْ هُنَيْدَةَ بْنِ خَالِدٍ، عَنِ امْرَأَتِهِ، قَالَتْ حَدَّثَتْنِي بَعْضُ، نِسَاءِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم كَانَ يَصُومُ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ وَتِسْعًا مِنْ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ وَثَلاَثَةَ أَيَّامٍ مِنَ الشَّهْرِ أَوَّلَ اثْنَيْنِ مِنَ الشَّهْرِ وَخَمِيسَيْنِ
Translation: One of the wives of the Prophetﷺ said: “The Prophet used to fast on the day of ‘Ashura, nine days of Dhul-Hijjah and three days each month: The first Monday of the month, and two Thursday. (Sunan an-Nasa’i 2372)
And among all the days of Dhul Hijjah, the fast on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) has the most significance.
أَنَّ رَسُولَ اَللَّهِ - صلى الله عليه وسلم -سُئِلَ عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ. قَالَ: ” يُكَفِّرُ اَلسَّنَةَ اَلْمَاضِيَةَ وَالْبَاقِيَةَ
Translation: The Prophetﷺ said: “Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.” (Muslim, 1162)
This is why fasting on Arafat Day is highly recommended for those who are not performing Hajj. It is a day of intense supplication and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
So, prepare yourself physically and spiritually for the fast by ensuring you have a pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) and breaking your fast (Iftar) with nutritious and balanced meals. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Tahajjud
Praying Tahajjud namaz during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah is highly meritorious. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer” [Sahih Muslim: 1163].
Dedicate a portion of the night to wake up and engage in voluntary prayers, seeking closeness to Allah and seeking His blessings.
Set aside a specific time for Tahajjud prayers, and establish a peaceful and serene environment for your worship. Recite the Quran and engage in heartfelt supplications during this blessed time.
Zikr And Dua
Increase your remembrance of Allah (Zikr) and supplications (Dua) during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Remember Allah abundantly, glorify Him, and seek His forgiveness.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best of supplications is the supplication on the Day of Arafah” [Tirmidhi: 3585]. Take advantage of this auspicious time to beseech Allah for His mercy, forgiveness, and guidance.
Keep a collection of recommended supplications and Adhkar handy to incorporate them into your daily routine. Take moments throughout the day to reflect on the blessings of Allah and express gratitude.
Offer 2 rakat Salatul Hajat and ask Allah for all the blessings of this blessed month.
Here are some zikr and tasbeehat you can read.
1- سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ وَ بِحَمْدِهِ ، سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ الْعَظِيمِ
(Glory be to Allah, and Praise, Glory be to Allah, the Supreme)
2- سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ ، والْحَمْدُللّهِ ، وَ لا اِلهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ ، وَ اللّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، وَ لا حَوْلَ وَ لا قُوَّةَ اِلَّا بِاللّهِ
(Glory be to Allah, All Praise is for Allah, There is No God but Allah, Allah is the Greatest, There is no might or any power Except with Allah)
3- لا اِلهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ لا شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَ هُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
(There is No God But Allah Alone, who has no partner. His is the dominion and His is the raise, and He is Able to do all things)
4- سُبْحـانَ اللهِ وَبِحَمْـدِهِ عَدَدَ خَلْـقِه ، وَرِضـا نَفْسِـه ، وَزِنَـةَ عَـرْشِـه ، وَمِـدادَ كَلِمـاتِـه
Translation: Glory is to Allah and praise is to Him, by the multitude of his creation, by His Pleasure, by the weight of His Throne, and by the extent of His Words.
5- اَللّٰهُمَّ صَلِّ وَسَلِّمْ عَلَى نَبِيِّنَا مُحَمَّدٍ
Translation: O Allah, send prayers/blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad.
6- اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ رَبِّى لاَ إِلهَ إِلاَ أَنْتَ ، خَلَقْتَنِى وَ أنَا عَبْدُكَ وَ أنَا عَلَى عَهْدِكَ ما اسْتَطَعْتُ ، أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِ مَا صَنَعْت ، أَبُوءُ لَكَ بِنِعْمَتِكَ عَلَىَّ وَ أبُوءُ بِذَنْبى فَاغْفِرْ لِى فإِنَّهُ لاَ يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ
Translation: O Allah! You are my Lord! None has the right to be worshipped but You. You created me and I am Your slave, and I am faithful to my covenant and my promise as much as I can. I seek refuge with You from all the evil I have done. I acknowledge before You all the blessings You have bestowed upon me, and I confess to You all my sins. So I entreat You to forgive my sins, for nobody can forgive sins except You.
7- Ya Mufattihal Abwab – Dua for easing hardships
This dua is a collection of different Duas found in the hadith. It is narrated by many scholars. It is not found in this form in any hadith. But, since its meaning is correct, you can use it as a dua.
| Loose English Translation | Transliteration | Arabic |
|---|---|---|
| O (Allah) who opens the closed doors | Ya Mufattihal Abwab | ،يَا مُفَتِّحَ الأَبْوَابِ |
| And who creates the means and turns the hearts and sight | Ya Musabbibal Asbab Wa Ya Muqallibal Quloobi Wal Absawr | يَا مُسَبِّبَ الأَسْبَابِ، و يَا مُقَلِّبَ الْقُلُوْبِ وَالأَبْصَارِ |
| And who gives relief to those seeking relief | Wa Ya Ghayasal Mustaghiseen | و يَا غِيَاثَ الْمُسْتَغِيْثِيْنَ، |
And who gives direction to the lost | Wa Ya Daleelal Mutahayyireen | و يَا دَلِيْلَ الْمُتَحَيِّرِيْنَ |
| And who gives happiness to those in grief | Wa Ya Mufarrihal Mahzooneen | و يا مُفَرّحَ الٌمَحزُونِينَ |
| Please listen to my plea, Please listen to my plea, Please listen to my plea | Aghisni Aghisni Aghisni | اَغِثنِي اَغِثنِي اَغِثنِي |
| My lord, I’ve trusted you | Tawakkaltu Alaika Ya Rabbi | تَوَكَّلتُ عَلَيكَ يا رَبّيِ |
| And I’ve handed over all my matters to you | Wa Fawwaztu Ilaika Amri | و فَوَّضتُ اِلَيكَ اَمرِي |
| My creator, My provider, My sustainer | Ya Rab, Ya Rab, Ya Rab | يا رَبُّ يا رَبُّ يا رَبُّ |
| O Allah! | Yaa Allah! | يآ اَللّٰهُ |
| O Forever Living, O Sustainer O Possessor of Glory and Honour, Lord of Majesty and Generosity | Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyumu Ya Zal Jalali Wal Ikrawm | يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّوْمُ، يَا ذَا الْجَلاَلِ وَالإِكْرَامِ. |
| O who grants affluence, O provider, O who opens closed doors, O the most generous who grants even those who don’t deserve | Ya Basitu Ya Razzaqu Ya Fatthau Ya Kareem | يا باسَطُ يا رَزَّاقُ يا فَتَّاحُ يا كَرَيمُ |
| Indeed, Allah sees all His servants. | Innallaha Baseerum Bil Ibad | اِنَّ اللهَ بَصِيْرٌ بِالْعِبَادِ |
Sadaqat
Giving charity (Sadaqah) during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah is highly encouraged. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best days of the world are the ten days (of Dhul Hijjah)” [Musnad Ahmad: 2284]. Donate generously to the less fortunate, support charitable organizations, and engage in acts of kindness and generosity.
Plan your charitable contributions in advance and identify reputable organizations or causes to support. Consider giving both monetary donations and volunteering your time and skills to benefit others.
Takbeer e Tashreeq
Recite the Takbeer (proclaiming the greatness of Allah) during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. The specific wording of the Takbeer is
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْد
Transliteration: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Ilallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Wa Lillahil Hamd.
Translation: Allah is the greatest, Allah is the greatest. There is no deity besides Allah and Allah is the greatest. Allah is the greatest and all praises are for Allah only.
Begin reciting the Takbeer from the Fajr (dawn) prayer of the 9th of Dhul Hijjah until the Asr (afternoon) prayer of the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
Men should recite Takbeer e Tashreeq audibly (loud enough to be heard by at least 2-3 people around you) in mosques, homes, and public places, to commemorate the greatness of Allah after every Fardh prayer. While women should read it silently (enough to hear it themselves) after every Fardh Salah.
Here’s a video of the Moazzin of Masjid e Nabwi, Sheikh Ali Ahmed Mulla, reciting the Takbeer e Tashreeq.
Qurbani
Performing the Qurbani (sacrifice) on the Day of Eid ul-Adha, which falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, is a significant act of worship. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) to sacrifice his son Ismail (A.S.) as an act of obedience to Allah. Qurbani serves as a reminder of the importance of submission and devotion to Allah’s commandments.
Ensure that you fulfill the requirements of Qurbani, including selecting a permissible animal, adhering to the recommended age and health standards, and distributing the meat to the needy. Seek guidance from local Islamic authorities or reputable organizations to ensure the proper execution of this act of worship.
How To Pray In Ashra e Zil Hajj | An Optional Guideline
When the month of Zul Hijjah starts, you should spend your time in any kind of prayer permitted by the Prophetﷺ .
However, since many people struggle to make time for optional prayer and many don’t know how to do it, here are a few optional guidelines to help you maximize the reward of these ten nights and days. This is based on the recommendations of scholars. However, it isn’t obligatory to follow it.
- Try to remain in the state of Wudu as much as possible.
- Fast on every day of Ashra e Zil Hajj (from 1st Dhul Hijjah till 9th Dhul Hijjah)
- If fasting every day isn’t possible, fast at least on the Day of Arafah, 10th Dhul Hijjah.
- Pray all five prayers in the masjid in a congregation (Jamat).
- Read Tasbeeh e Fatmi after every Fardh prayer
33 Times Subhan Allah (سُبْحَانَ ٱللَّٰهِ)
33 Times Alhamdulillah (ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ)
34 Times Allahu Akbar (ٱللَّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ)
- Read this zikr all the time as it is the essence of Dhul Hijjah
سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ ، والْحَمْدُللّهِ ، وَ لا اِلهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ ، وَ اللّهُ اَكْبَرُ
- Offer 6 rakat Salat ul Awwabeen after Maghrib. It is a Nafl Namaz offered in sets of 2 rakat each, prayed the same way as regular namaz.
- Frequently recite Durood e Ibrahimi or any other Durood Sharif.
- Offer 4 Rakat Tahajjud before offering Witr Namaz in Isha. You can wake up during the night to offer Tahajjud again. However, if you don’t, offering it with Isha will help you gain some of its rewards.
- Try to offer Salatul Tasbeeh at least once in these 10 days.
- Give some sadaqah every day during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah.
- Recite the Holy Quran for at least 15 minutes every day.
- Make excessive Dua after every Fardh Namaz.
- If there’s a funeral in your local mosque, offer Namaz e Janaza.
- Avoid all major sins so that your Nafl prayer and hard work don’t go in vain.
Are You Ready To Benefit From Ashra e Zil Hajj (10 Days Of Dhul Hijjah)
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a time of immense blessings and rewards for Muslims. By understanding their importance, following the teachings of the Quran and Hadith, and engaging in recommended acts of worship, Muslims can make the most of this auspicious period. By fasting, engaging in extra prayers, giving charity, and seeking forgiveness, believers can attain spiritual upliftment, strengthen their faith, and earn the pleasure of Allah. May Allah bless all Muslims during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah and accept their sincere efforts and worship.