Saudi Gazette

The last month of the lunar calendar ‘Dhul Hijjah’ is here. It is the month of the fifth pillar of Islam — Haj. This is the last sacred month of the year in in Hijra Calendar. It is the month of Eid Al-Adha, and the great sacrifice.

Did you know that first 10 days of this month are very important and blessed?

Even for those who are not performing the pilgrimage — Haj, the first 10 days are equally important and virtuous. All the good deeds that you do are loved and rewarded by Allah manifold in these 10 days. Every act of worship has double rewards.

If you are not going for Haj then, what can you do to gain the benefit and blessing of 10 days of Dhul Hijjah?

According to a saying of our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), fasting in any of these 9 days is equivalent to fasting for one year. Hence, your reward is as if you fasted throughout the year. Therefore, you can start by fasting to avail the blessing of these days.

Fasting on the ninth of Dhul Hijjah, which is the day of Arafat for those performing pilgrimage is the most special and auspicious. Did you know that fasting on ninth of this month would make up for the sins and misgivings of last and the coming year?

However, as the summer are strongest in the Kingdom right now. Thus, it is better to keep yourself hydrated and drink a lot of water if you are going to fast.

In addition, it has been stated that if you pray at night, it will be equivalent to praying on the night of Qadr in Ramadan. We all seek Layla-tul-Qadr in Ramadan, and here Allah has given us the opportunity to have it again.

Do the Dikhr as much as possible. Always keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah. Recite Qura’n and Takbeerat. Ask your parents to guide you, and help you learn.

Do as much good deeds as possible. Allah loves all the good things that you can do in these days and they are rewarded immensely. Respect others, and show your good manners. Be the first one to greet others, and help everyone around you.

Spend a part of your pocket money in giving charity, or helping someone in need. Make Dua for your loved ones, and the entire world. Allah listens to our prayer, when we call upon Him. Make positive changes in life by adopting a good habit, and dropping a bad one. If you are not regular in your daily prayers, it is a very good time to make the change. Get rid of anger, and stop fighting with your siblings.

This time of the year is very important, especially if you did not get the chance to do well throughout the year. Be a good Muslim, and an excellent human being starting today. The rewards and blessings are yours in this world and the hereafter.