i thought id post this, since even though we may be at home, we are still about to encouter some blessed days,


The first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah:

Days of virtue and righteous deeds
...Among the special seasons of worship are the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, which Allaah has preferred over all the other days of the year. Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet :s: (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days." The people asked, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" He said, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah :sw: , 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." (Bukhaari).

These texts and others indicate that these ten days are better than all the other days of the year, with no exceptions, not even the last ten days of Ramadaan. But the last ten nights of Ramadaan are better, because they include Laylat al-Qadr ("the Night of Power"), which is better than a thousand months. Thus the various reports may be reconciled. (Ibn Katheer)

the virtue of these ten days is based on many things:

*Allaah swears an oath by them, and swearing an oath by something is indicative of its importance and great benefit. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): "By the dawn; by the ten nights" [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. (Ibn Katheer- this means the 1st 10 days)

*The Prophet :s: testified that these are the best days of this world, as we have already quoted above from saheeh ahaadeeth.

*The Prophet :s: encouraged people to do righteous deeds because of the virtue of this season for people throughout the world, and also because of the virtue of the place - for the Hujjaaj (pilgrims) to the Sacred House of Allaah.

*The Prophet :s: commanded us to recite a lot of Tasbeeh ("Subhan-Allaah"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah") and Takbeer ("Allaahu akbar") during this time. ‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There are no days greater in the sight of Allaah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel ("La ilaaha ill-Allaah"), Takbeer and Tahmeed." (Reported by Ahmad, 7/224)
*These ten days include Yawm ‘Arafaah (the Day of ‘Arafaah), on which Allaah perfected His Religion. Fasting on this day will expiate for the sins of two years. These days also include Yawm al-Nahar (the Day of Sacrifice), the greatest day of the entire year and the greatest day of Hajj, which combines acts of worship in a way unlike any other day.

*These ten days include the days of sacrifice and of Hajj.


Among the good deeds which the Muslim should strive to do during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah are:
*Fasting. It is Sunnah to fast on the ninth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah, because the Prophet :s: urged us to do good deeds during this time, and fasting is one of the best of deeds. Allaah has chosen fasting for Himself, as is stated in the hadeeth qudsi: "Allaah says: ‘All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting, which is for Me and I am the One Who will reward him for it.’" (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1805).
The Prophet :s: used to fast on the ninth of Dhu’l-Hijjah. Hunaydah ibn Khaalid reported from his wife that some of the wives of the Prophet :s: said: "The Prophet :s: used to fast on the ninth of Dhu’l-Hijjah, on the day of ‘Aashooraa’, on three days of each month, and on the first two Mondays and Thursdays of each month." ( al-Nisaa’i, and by Abu Dawud).

*Takbeer. It is Sunnah to say Takbeer (Allahu akbar), Tahmeed (Alhamdu Lillah), Tahleel (La ilaha ill-Allah) and Tasbeeh (Subhaan Allah) during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, and to say it loudly in the mosque, the home, the street and every place where it is permitted to remember Allaah and mention His name out loud, as an act of worship and as a proclamation of the greatness of Allaah, may He be exalted.

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

[b]"That they might witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e., reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention the name of Allaah on appointed days, over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice)..." [/b][22:28]

The majority of scholars agree that the "appointed days" are the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, because of the words of Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father): "The ‘appointed days’ are the first ten days (of Dhu’l-Hijjah)."

*Doing more good deeds in general, because good deeds are beloved by Allaah and will bring a great reward from Him. Whoever is not able to go to Hajj should occupy himself at this blessed time by worshipping Allaah, praying (salaat), reading Qur’an, remembering Allaah, making supplication (du’aa’), giving charity, honouring his parents, upholding the ties of kinship, enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil, and other good deeds and acts of worship.

*Sacrifice. One of the good deeds that will bring a person closer to Allaah during these ten days is offering a sacrifice, by choosing a high-quality animal and fattening it, spending money for the sake of Allaah.

*Sincere repentance. One of the most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to Allaah and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin. Repentance means coming back to Allaah and foregoing all the deeds, open and secret, that He dislikes, out of regret for what has passed, giving it up immediately and being determined never to return to it, but to adhere firmly to the Truth by doing what Allaah loves.

andclick here for more

Assalamo-alaikum-warahmatullahi-wabrakatu

ALL praise is due to Allaah, and may He render our Prophet Muhammad (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) safe from every derogatory thing, and exalt his mention, and the mention of his household and Companions.

Ibn Abbaas, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days; meaning the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. They inquired: Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah? He said: Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, unless one goes out for Jihad sacrificing both his life and property and returning with neither. (Al-Bukhaari)

In another version, Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhumaa) reported that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), said: There are no days during which good deeds are greater or more beloved to Allah than these ten days. So recite more often the Tahleel (Laa Ilaaha Illallah), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah). (Imam Ahmad) Jaabir reported that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: The best day is the Day of Arafah. There are no days during which good deeds are greater or more beloved to Allaah than these ten days. So recite more often the Tahleel (Laa Ilaaha Illallah) , Takbeer (Allahu Akbar),
Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah).

Ten Kinds of Observances In These Days

With regard to the types of worship to be performed during these ten days: one must understand that these days are a great blessing from Allaah to His slave, which is appreciated properly by the actively righteous. It is the duty of a Muslim to appreciate this blessing and make the most of the opportunity, by devoting these ten days to paying more attention to striving hard in worship. Among His blessings to His slaves, Allaah has given us many ways in which to do good and worship Him, so that the Muslim may be constantly active and consistent in his worship of his Lord.

Among the good deeds which the Muslim should strive to
do during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are:

First: Performing Hajj and Umrah, which are the best of all observances. Its excellence is signified by many Prophetic traditions. The Prophet (sallallaahualaihi wa sallam) said: Performing Umrah and following it with another expiates sins that are committed in between. And the perfect Hajj would be requited with nothing other than Jannah. There are also many
authentic traditions to that effect.

Second: Observing fasting on all or some of these days, particularly on the Day of Arafah. There is no doubt that fasting is the best of observances; for it is one of the observances which Allah relates to Himself, according to the holy tradition (hadith Qudsi): Fasting is for Me, and I shall requite it. My
slave relinquishes his desires, food, and drink for My sake.

Abu Saeed al-Khudri (radiallahu anhu) reported that the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: Any slave of Allah who observes fast of a day in the cause of Allah, Allah would separate between him and the Fire a distance of seventy years on account of observing that day. (Agreed upon).

Abu Qataadah (radiallahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: Observing fasting on the Day of Arafat; I expect Allah to expiate the sins that were committed during the preceding year, and the sins that will be committed in the year after. (Imam Muslim)

Third: Reciting takbeer, and Dhikr in these days according to the words of Allah, the Exalted: And mention the name of Allah in certain days [Al-Baqarah 2:203]. These certain days are said to be the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Therefore, scholars recommend Dhikr more often during these days, according to a tradition which is reported by Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhumaa): Therefore, recite more often, tahleel, takbeer, and tahmeed. Ibn Umar and Abu Hurairah (radiallaahu anhum) used to go out to the marketplaces during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah and recite out loud the takbeer and people would repeat it after them. Ishaaq (rahimahullah) reported that the jurists (rahimahumullah) used torecite during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Laa Ilaaha illallah, wallahu Akbar, wa lillaahil-hamd. It is commended to recite them out loud in marketplaces, at homes, roads, mosques and elsewhere. According to the commands of Allaah: That you may exalt Allah for having guided you, and that you may be grateful to Him. [Al-Baqarah 2:185]

Fourth: Repentance and relinquishing acts of disobedience and all sins, in order to acquire forgiveness and mercy. Acts of disobedience are means of banishing, while acts of obedience are means of gaining favour with Allaah. Abu Hurairah (radiallahuanhu) reported that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: Verily Allah feels jealous, and the jealousy of Allaah is aroused when man violates what Allaah prohibits. (Agreed upon)

Fifth: Accomplishing more good deeds of voluntary observances, such as: salaat, charity, Jihad, Qur'ânic recitation, enjoining the good and forbidding the wrong, and the like; for the rewards of such observances are multiplied during these days. Observances during these days are unsurpassed in excellence and they are better and more beloved to Allaah than other excellent observances including Jihad, which is the best of deeds, unless one sacrifices both, his life and his steed.

Sixth: It is legal during these days the recitation of the takbeer in general at all times, day or night until Eid prayer. The restricted takbeer is that which is to be recited after the obligatory prayers. As for the non-pilgrims, the takbeer begins from the Day of Arafah, and for pilgrims it begins from the noon prayer of the Day of Sacrifice and continues until Asr prayer of the last of the days of Tashreeq.

Seventh: Offering the sacrificial animal during the day of sacrifice and the Days of Tashreeq. It is the sunnah of our father Ibraheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, in commemoration of the occasion when Allaah ransomed Ibraheems son with a large ram. It has been authentically confirmed that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) sacrificed two black and white rams with horns. He killed them with his own hand, and invoked the name of Allaah upon them, recited the takbeer, and placed his foot on their sides, when he
killed them. (Agreed upon.)

Eighth: Umm Salamah, may Allah be pleased with her, said: When you see the new moon of Dhul Hijjah, and one of you wants to sacrifice an animal let him refrain from cutting or shaving his hair or clipping his finger nails, or toenails. In another version: Let him not cut his hair or his fingernails until he has slaughtered his sacrificial animal. This perhaps is enjoined on non-pilgrims to have something in common with the pilgrims who bring along with them their sacrificial animals. Allaah, the Exalted, says: And do not shave off your heads until the sacrificial animal is slaughtered. [Al-Baqarah 197] This prohibition seems to apply only to a person who is making the
offering, not his dependents, unless one of them has his own sacrificial animal. There is no harm in washing the head even if some hairs fall off.

Ninth: The Muslim must make sure to observe Eid prayer in its designated place, and attend the khutbah of the Eid. He should also know the purpose of the Eid, and that its a day of giving thanks and a chance for accomplishing good deeds. He should not turn it into a day of mischief, disobedience, or an excuse for violating the prohibited things; such as singing music, illegitimate amusements, consuming liquor, or the like. All of these things are detestable and nullify the good deeds that one may have accomplished during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.

Tenth: After knowing all the above observances, every Muslim, male or female, must utilise these days in obedience to Allaah, remembering Him, expressing gratefulness to him, fulfilling all the obligatory observances, avoiding the reprehensible things and taking advantage of this season to acquire His mercy and the pleasure. It Allah alone who grants success and guides to the right path. May He exalt the mention of Muhammad, and his household, and Companions, and may He render them safe from every derogatory thing.

Now we are in the 4th day of the month Zulhijah....if you want to know The Virtue of The First Ten Days of Dhul-Hijjah read the following 2 hadiths

Al-Bukhari narrated from Ibn Abbas (May Allah be pleased with him), that the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) said: "There are not any days in which righteous deeds done in them are more beloved to Allah than these days, i.e. the ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah). They said: O, Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the path of Allah? He said: Not even Jihad in the path of Allah Most High, except if a man goes out (for Jihad) with his self and his wealth, then he doesn't return with anything from that."

Al-Bukhari narrated from Ibn Abbas (May Allah be pleased with him), that the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) said: "There are not any days in which righteous deeds done in them are more beloved to Allah than these days, i.e. the ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah). They said: O, Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the path of Allah? He said: Not even Jihad in the path of Allah Most High, except if a man goes out (for Jihad) with his self and his wealth, then he doesn't return with anything from that."


Millions of Hasanat



Shaikh Abdullaah Ibn Jibreen wrote:

The Types of Deeds in These Ten Days:

First: The performance of Hajj and Umrah, and these are the best of deeds that may be done. And what indicates their superiority are a number of Hadiths, one of which is the saying of (The Prophet) (p.b.u.h.): "Performance of Umrah is an expiation of the sins committed between it and the previous Umrah, and the reward of the Hajj which is accepted by Allah Most High is nothing but Paradise." (Bukhari and Muslim).

Second: Fasting during these days as many of them as may be easy (for one to fast) - especially the Day of Arafah. There is no doubt that the act of fasting is one of the best deeds, and it is from what Allah, Most High has chosen for himself, as in the Hadith Qudsi: "Fasting is for Me, and it is I who give reward for it. Verily, someone gives up his sexual passion, his food and his drink for my sake..." (Bukhari, Muslim, Malik, Tirmidhi, Nasaa'ee and Ibn Majah).

Also, from Abu Sa'eed al-Khudree (May Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Messenger of Allah (p.b.u.h.) said: "No servant (of Allah Most High) fasts one day in the way of Allah, except that Allah Most High removes his face from the fire because of it (the distance of traveling) seventy years." (Bukhari and Muslim).

Muslim narrated from Abu Qutaadah that the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) said: "Fasting the Day of Arafah will be credited with Allah by forgiving one's sins of the previous year and the following year."

Third: at-Takbeer (saying: Allahu-Akbar) and adh-Dhikr (remembrance of Allah, the Most High) in these (ten) days, because of the saying of Allah in Soorah al-Hajj verse 28: "...And mention the name of Allah on the appointed Days..."

This has been explained (by some) to mean the ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah), and the scholars consider it desirable to increase adh-Dhikr (remembrance of Allah Most High) in these days, because of the Hadith of Ibn Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated by Ahmad, which says in it: "...so increase in these days the Tahleel and Takbeer and Tahmeed."

Al-Bukhari mentioned about Ibn Umar and Abu Hurayrah (May Allah be pleased with them) that the two of them used to go out to the market place during the ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah) saying 'Allahu-Akbar', causing the people to also say it."

Ishaq narrates from the scholars of the Taabi'een that in these ten days they used to say: Allahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar; Laa-ilaaha-ill-Allah Wallaahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar; Wa-lillaahil-hamd.


It is a beloved act to raise the voice when saying the Takbeer in the markets, the houses, the streets, the Masjids and other places, because of the saying of Allah, the Most High in Soorah al-Hajj verse 37: "...that you may magnify Allah for His Guidance to you..."

The saying of Takbeer in congregation, i.e., everyone pronouncing the Takbeer with one voice, is not permissible since this has not been transmitted (to us) from the early generations of the companions and those who followed their ways. Verily the Sunnah is for everyone to say the Takbeer individually. And this is applicable for all Dhikr and supplications, except if the person doesn't know what to say. In that case he may repeat after someone else until he learns (the words to be said). It is also permissible to make Dhikr with all the different wording of Takbeer (Allahu-Akbar) and Tahmeed (al-hamdu-lillaah) and Tasbeeh (Subhaan-Allah), and the rest of the Islamic legislated supplications (from Quran and Sunnah).

Fourth: at-Tawbah (repentance) and abstaining from disobedience and all types of sins, since forgiveness and mercy are the results of deeds. Disobedience is the cause of being far away (from Allah, the Most High) and repulsion, while obedience is the cause of being near (to Allah, the Most High) and His love. In the Hadith of Abu Hurayrah (May Allah be pleased with him), he said that the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) said: "Verily Allah has a sense of 'Ghayrah' (honor, prestige and anger over it's violation), and Allah's sense of Ghayrah is provoked when a person does that which Allah has made prohibited". (Bukhari and Muslim).

Fifth: Doing plenty of voluntary (Nafl) righteous deeds of worship like prayer, charity, Jihad, reciting Quran, commanding what is good and forbidding what is evil, and other deeds like this. Verily they are of those deeds which are multiplied in these days. Because, even those deeds which are less preferred, in these days are superior and more beloved to Allah than superior deeds done at other times - even the Jihad which is one of the most superior of all deeds, except in the case of one whose horse is killed and his blood is spilled (loss of life in Jihad).

Sixth: It is legislated in these days to make at-Takbeer al-Mutlaq (unrestricted to specific times or form) at all times of night and day until the time of the Eid Prayer. Also, at-Takbeer al-Muqayyid (restricted to specific times and done in a particular manner) is legislated, and it is done after the (five) obligatory prayers which are performed in congregation. This begins from Dawn (Fajr) on the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah) for those not performing Hajj, and from Noon (Dhuhr) on the Day of Sacrifice (10th of Dhul-Hijjah) for those performing Hajj (pilgrims); and it continues until Asr prayer on the last day of the days of Tashreeq (13th of Dhul-Hijjah).

Seventh: The slaughtering of a sacrificial animal (Adhiyyah) is also legislated for the Day of Sacrifice (10th) and the Days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th and 13th). This is the Sunnah of our father Ibraheem (May Allah be pleased with him) - from when Allah, the Most High redeemed his son by the great sacrifice (of an animal in his place). It is authenticated that the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) slaughtered (sacrificed) two horned rams, black and white in color, and that he slaughtered them with his own hands, mentioned the name of Allah, the Most High (saying Bismillaah), said Takbeer (Allahu-Akbar), and placed his foot on their sides (while slaughtering them). (Bukhari and Muslim. Bukhari English translation - Dr. Muhsin Khan, Vol.2, Pg. 447-448 #770 and 772, 1979).

Eighth: Muslim and others narrated from Umm Salamah (May Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) said: "If you see the Hilaal (new moon) of Dhul-Hijjah, and any one of you wants to make a sacrifice, then he should not cut (anything) from his hair and his nails." and in one narration he said: "...then he should not take (cut) anything from his hair, nor from his nails, until he performs the sacrifice." Perhaps this is because of the similarity with the one who is bringing a sacrificial animal for slaughter (in Hajj). As Allah, the Most High said: "...and do not shave your heads until the Hadee (sacrifice) reaches the place of sacrifice..."

The apparent meaning of this prohibition is that it is particularly for the one whom the sacrifice is for, and does not include the wife or children, unless there is an individual sacrifice for one of them. There is no harm in washing the head, or scratching it, even if some hairs may fall out.

Ninth: It is incumbent for the Muslim (who is not making Hajj) to make every effort to perform the Eid Prayer wherever it is performed, and to be present for the Khutbah and benefit. He must know the wisdom behind the legislation of this Eid (celebration). It is a day of thankfulness and performing deeds of righteousness. So, he must not make it a day of wildness, pride and vanity. He should not make it a season of disobedience and increase in the forbidden things like music and singing, uncontrolled amusement, intoxicants and the like - those things which could cause the cancellation of the good deeds done in these ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah).

Tenth: After what has been mentioned, it is fitting that every Muslim, male and female, take advantage of these days by obeying Allah, the Most High, remembering Him, thanking Him, fulfilling all the obligatory duties, and staying far away from the prohibited things. He must take full advantage of this season, and the open display of Allah's gifts to attain the pleasure of his Lord.

Surely, Allah, the Most High is the One who grants success, and He is the Guide to the Straight Path. And may the blessings of Allah, the Most High, and Peace be upon Muhammad and his family and companions

The first 10 days of Zul Hijjah: why they matter

by Sound Vision Staff Writer

Even for those not performing the pilgrimage, Hajj, the first ten days of this month are considered very sacred and a time for increased reflection, seeking Allah's forgiveness, doing good and various other forms of worship.

Prophet Mohammed (peace and blessings be upon him) has said about the first ten days of Zul Hijjah: 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 Allah?" He said, "Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, 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 (Bukhari).

So sacred are the first ten days of Zul Hijjah that Allah swears an oath by them when He says in the Quran: "By the dawn; by the ten nights" [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Swearing an oath by something indicates its importance and great benefit.

What kinds of worship should be performed?
While any good deed done for the sake of Allah according to the way He approves will be rewarded immensely during the first ten days, Insha Allah, some of the more specific actions mentioned in the Traditions of the Prophet are fasting and verbal Zikr (remembrance) of Allah.

In terms of fasting, it is particularly encouraged to fast on the ninth day of Zul-Hijjah, known in Arabic as Yawm Arafa. The Prophet used to fast on this day (al Nisai and Abu Dawud). Fasting on this day will expiate a Muslim's sins for two years.

The verbal remembrance of Allah is another meritorious act during these first ten days of Zul Hijjah. The Prophet upon him) encouraged Muslims to recite a lot of Tasbeeh ("Subhan-Allaah"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah") and Takbeer ("Allahu akbar") during this time.

The Takbeer may include the words "Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah; wa Allahu akbar wa Lillahi’l-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise)," as well as other phrases.

Men are encouraged to recite these phrases out loud and women quietly.

Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurayrah, two of the Prophet's Companions, used to go out in the marketplace during the first ten days of Zul-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite Takbeer individually when they heard them.

Generally, all good deeds are rewarded highly at this blessed time. These actions include praying, reading Quran, making Dua (supplication), giving in charity and being good to our families.

In addition, seeking Allah's forgiveness at this time is also encouraged. This means more than just a verbal expression of sorrow for past misdeeds. It also requires a firm resolution to avoid making the same mistakes in the future by giving up bad habits and behavior while sincerely turning to Allah

Walaikum Asalaam wr wb

The First 10 Days Of Dhul-Hijjah

Days of virtue and righteous deeds

..................................

Ibn 'Abbas says about the Aayah, "Remember Allaah during the well
known days," that it refers to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.
[This is related by al-Bukhari]

Allaah swears an oath by them, and swearing an oath by something is
indicative of its importance and great benefit. Allaah says
(interpretation of the meaning): "By the dawn; by the 10 nights"
[al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Ibn Abbaas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujaahid and others of
the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first
ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Ibn Katheer said: "This is the correct
opinion." [Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 8/413]

Praise be to Allaah Who has created Time and has made some times
better than others, some months and days and nights better than
others, when rewards are multiplied many times, as a mercy towards His
slaves. This encourages them to do more righteous deeds and makes them
more eager to worship Him, so that the Muslim renews his efforts to
gain a greater share of reward, prepare himself for death and supply
himself in readiness for the Day of Judgement.

This season of worship brings many benefits, such as the opportunity
to correct ones faults and make up for any shortcomings or anything
that one might have missed.

Every one of these special occasions involves some kind of worship
through which the slaves may draw closer to Allaah, and some kind of
blessing though which Allaah bestows His favour and mercy upon
whomsoever He will.

The happy person is the one who makes the most of these special
months, days and hours and draws nearer to his Lord during these times
through acts of worship; he will most likely be touched by the
blessing of Allaah and will feel the joy of knowing that he is safe
from the flames of Hell. [Ibn Rajab, al-Lataaif, p.8]

Ibn 'Abbas reports that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu alaihi wa
sallam) said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those
done on these days [meaning the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah]." The
companions asked, "O Messenger of Allaah, not even jihad in the way of
Allaah?" He said, "Not even jihad, except for the man who puts his
life and wealth in danger [for Allaah's sake] and returns with neither
of them." [This is related by the group except Muslim and an-Nasa'i]

Ahmad and at-Tabarani record from Ibn 'Umar that the Messenger of
Allaah (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said,

"There is no day more honorable in Allaah's sight and no acts more
beloved therein to Allaah than those in these ten days. So say tahlil
(There is no deity worthy of worship but Allaah : Laa ilaaha
illallaah), takbir (Allaah is the greatest : Allaahu Akbar) and tahmid
(All praise is due to Allaah : alhumdulillaah) a lot [on those days]."
[Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated it is saheeh]

Abu Hurairah relates that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu alaihi
wa sallam) said,

"There are no days more loved to Allaah for you to worship Him
therein than the ten days of Dhul Hijja. Fasting any day during it is
equivalent to fasting one year and to offer salatul tahajjud
(late-night prayer) during one of its nights is like performing the
late night prayer on the night of power. [i.e., Lailatul Qadr]." [This
is related by at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, and al-Baihaqi]

Ibn 'Umar narrated that at Mina, the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu
'alaihi wa sallam) said, "Do you know what is the day today?" The
people replied, "Allaah and His Messenger know it better." He said,
"It is the forbidden (sacred) day. And do you know what town is this?"
They replied, "Allaah and His Messenger know it better." He said,
"This is the forbidden (sacred) town (Mecca). And do you know which
month is this?" The people replied, "Allaah and His Apostle know it
better." He said, "This is the forbidden (sacred) month." The
Messenger added, "No doubt, Allaah made your blood, your properties,
and your honour sacred to one another like the sanctity of this day of
yours in this month of yours in this town of yours."

Narrated Ibn 'Umar:

On the Day of Nahr (10th of Dhul-Hijja), the Messenger
(sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) stood in between the Jamrat during his
Hajj which he performed (as in the previous Hadith) and said, "This is
the greatest Day (i.e. 10th of Dhul-Hijjah)." The Messenger
(sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) started saying repeatedly, "O Allaah!
Be Witness (I have conveyed Your Message)." He then bade the people
farewell. The people said, "(This is Hajjat-al-Wada)." [Bukhari 2.798]

FASTING DAY OF ARAFAT
.....................
Abu Qatadah reported that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alaihi
wa sallam) said,

"Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for two years, the
year preceding it and the year following it. Fasting the day of
'Ashurah is an expiation for the year preceding it." [This is related
by "the group," except for al-Bukhari and at-Tirmidhi]

Hafsah reported,

"There are five things that the Messenger (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa
sallam) never abandoned: fasting the day of 'Ashurah, fasting the
[first] 10 [days of Dhul-Hijjah], fasting 3 days of every month and
praying two rak'ah before the dawn prayer." [This is related by Ahmad
and an-Nasa'i]

'Uqbah ibn 'Amr reported that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu
'alaihi wa sallam) said, "The day of 'Arafah, the day of sacrifice,
and the days of tashreeq are 'ids for us--the people of Islam--and
they are days of eating and drinking."[This is related by "the five,"
except for Ibn Majah. At-Tirmidhi grades it sahih]

Abu Hurairah stated,

"The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) forbade
fasting on the day of 'Arafah for one who is actually at 'Arafah."
[This is related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, an-Nasa'i, and Ibn Majah]
At-Tirmidhi comments: "The scholars prefer that the day of Arafah be
fasted unless one is actually at 'Arafah."

Takbeer
.......

It is Sunnah to say Takbeer ("Allaahu akbar"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu
Lillaah"), Tahleel ("La ilaha ill-Allaah") and Tasbeeh ("Subhaan
Allaah") during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, and to say it
loudly in the mosque, the home, the street and every place where it is
permitted to remember Allaah and mention His name out loud, as an act
of worship and as a proclamation of the greatness of Allaah, may He be
exalted. Men should recite these phrases out loud, and women should
recite them quietly.

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):"That they might witness
things that are of benefit to them (i.e., reward of Hajj in the
Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention
the name of Allaah on appointed days, over the beast of cattle that He
has provided for them (for sacrifice)..." [al-Hajj 22:28]

The majority of scholars agree that the "appointed days" are the first
ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, because of the words of Ibn Abbas (may Allaah
be pleased with him and his father), "The appointed days are the first
ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah)."

The Takbeer may include the words "Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, la
ilaaha ill-Allaah; wa Allaahu akbar wa Lillaahil- hamd (Allaah is Most
Great, Allaah is Most Great, there is no deity worthy of worship but
Allaah; Allaah is Most Great and to Allaah be praise)," as well as
other phrases.

Takbeer at this time is an aspect of the Sunnah that has been
forgotten, especially during the early part of this period, so much so
that one hardly ever hears Takbeer, except from a few people. This
Takbeer should be pronounced loudly, in order to revive the Sunnah and
as a reminder to the negligent.

There is sound evidence that Ibn Umar and Abu Hurairah (may Allaah be
pleased with them) used to go out in the marketplace during the first
ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite
Takbeer when they heard them. The idea behind reminding the people to
recite Takbeer is that each one should recite it individually, not in
unison, as there is no basis in Sharee'ah for doing this.

May Allah swt accept the hajj of all our bros and sisters who Alhumdulillah are making pilgrimage this year subhanaAllah....and forgive all muslims for our sins and give us hidayah and guide us towards the right path...the path to Allah swt inshaAllah...ameen, summa ameen.....

masha'Allah good info

you know its the little things that most of us miss out on especially the new muslims I feel..

like the imprtance of shabaan and the 10 days of zil hajj etc

i really like such posts

ps: does anyone have any articles on the optional prayers like chaast etc ?

as-salaam alaykum

Ten Days Allah Swore By: The First Ten Days of Dhu'l Hijjah

Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Ten days Allah swore by: The first ten days of Dhu'l Hijjah


In the Name of Allah, Most Merciful and Compassionate

The first ten days of Dhu’l Hijjah are blessed days: Allah Most High Himself swore by them in the Qur’an:

“By the Dawn,

and the Ten Nights...”

[Qur’an, Surat al-Fajr, 89.1-2]

The commentators generally concur that the ten nights refers, ‘the first ten days of Dhu’l Hijjah,’ as one may find in Shaykh al-Islam Abu Su`ud’sIrshad al-`Aql al-Salim ila Mazaya al-Qur’an al-Karim [famous as Tafsir Abi al-Su`ud, 9.153] or in Tafsir al-Jalalayn.

Imam Ahmad and Nasa’i report from the Mother of Believers, Sayyida Hafsa (Allah be pleased with her) that, “The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) did not leave four matters: Fasting `Ashura [10th of Muharram], [during] the ten days [of Dhu’l Hijja], and three days of each month.”

1. Fasting the First Nine Days, Especially the Day of `Arafah (9th)

The scholars concur that it is recommended to fast during the first nine days of Dhu’l Hijja. (The tenth day is the day of Eid, and is prohibitively disliked and sinful to fast this day.) [Buhuti, Kashshaf al-Qina`; Nawawi,Majmu`; Fatawa Hindiyya; Haskafi, Durr al-Mukhtar; Dardir,al-Sharh al-Saghir]

Of these, it is particularly recommended to fast the Day of `Arafah [9th of Dhu’l Hijjah], even for the one on Hajj in the Hanafi school, if it does not weaken the pilgrim from spending the day busy in worship. [Haskafi, Durr;Kasani, Bada’i`]

As for hadiths in which the Prophet (Allah bless him & give him peace) commanded against fasting this day for the pilgrim at `Arafah, this was understood by the Hanafi imams to refer to those whom it would weaken or tire. [As explained by Imam Tahawi in Sharh Ma`ani al-Athar, 2.82-83]

This is because of the numerous hadiths that have come in praise of this day in particular and fasting in it. Among these is:

Abu Qatada (Allah be pleased with him) related that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said, “Fasting the Day of `Arafah [9th of Dhu’l Hijjah] expiates for two years, one prior and one forthcoming. And fasting the Day of `Ashura [10th of Muharram] expiates for the past year.” [Reported by Muslim, Abu Dawud, Nasa’i, and Ibn Majah]

2. Increasing One’s Spiritual Works During these Ten Days

Similarly, it is recommended to busy oneself these days with worship of Allah. Imam Sharaf al-Din al-Hijjawi, the great Hanbali faqih, states in his primary text, al-Iqna`,:

“It is recommend to exert oneself in good works during the first ten days of Dhu’l Hijjah, such as remembrance of Allah (dhikr), fasting, charity, and other righteous actions, because they are the best of days.” [Buhuti, Kashshaf al-Qina`, 2.60]

This is confirmed by scholars of all the Sunni madhhabs. [Ibn Nujaym, al-Bahr al-Ra’iq; Haskafi/Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar `ala al-Durr al-Mukhtar; Nawawi, al-Majmu` and others]

Many scholars even stated that daytimes of these ten days are more virtuous than the ten daytimes of the last ten days of Ramadan, because of the strength of the primary texts related to them.

3. Spending the Nights of These Days In Prayer and Worship

It is especially recommended to spend some part of each of the nights of these ten days in prayer and worship. [Nawawi, Majmu`; Ibn Qudama, Mughni; Dardir, al-Sharh al-Saghir; Ibn Nujaym, al-Bahr al-Ra’iq;al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya; Ibn Abidin/Haskafi, Radd al-Muhtar `ala al-Durr al-Mukhtar]

This was deduced by clear primary texts, such as Prophet’s words (Allah bless him and give him peace) that, “There are no days in which good works are more beloved to Allah than these days – meaning the first ten days of Dhu’l Hijjah.” The Companions asked, ‘Not even jihad in the path of Allah, O Messenger of Allah?’ He said (Allah bless him & give him peace), “Not even jihad in the path of Allah, except for the one who goes forth with his person and wealth and does not return with any of it.” [Bukhari and others]

May Allah give us success in these blessed days and nights, and in every moment of our lives, to follow the path of the Prophet (Allah bless him & give him peace), and may He make us of those whom He loves and who love Him.

Walaikum assalam,
Faraz Rabbani




[size="5"]بَابُ صَوْمِ عَشْرِ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ وَتَأْكِيدِ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ لِغَيْرِ الْحَاجِّ1707 – ( عَنْ حَفْصَةَ قَالَتْ : { أَرْبَعٌ لَمْ يَكُنْ يَدَعُهُنَّ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم : صِيَامُ عَاشُورَاءَ , وَالْعَشْرِ , وَثَلَاثَةِ أَيَّامٍ مِنْ كُلِّ شَهْرٍ , وَالرَّكْعَتَيْنِ قَبْلَ الْغَدَاةِ } . رَوَاهُ أَحْمَدُ وَالنَّسَائِيُّ ) . 1708 - ( وَعَنْ أَبِي قَتَادَةَ قَالَ : قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم : { صَوْمُ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ يُكَفِّرُ سَنَتَيْنِ مَاضِيَةً وَمُسْتَقْبَلَةً , وَصَوْمُ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ يُكَفِّرُ سَنَةً مَاضِيَةً } رَوَاهُ الْجَمَاعَةُ إلَّا الْبُخَارِيَّ وَالتِّرْمِذِيَّ ) .1709 - ( وَعَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ قَالَ : { نَهَى رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ بِعَرَفَاتٍ } . رَوَاهُ أَحْمَدُ وَابْنُ مَاجَهْ ) .1710 - ( وَعَنْ أُمِّ الْفَضْلِ : { أَنَّهُمْ شَكُّوا فِي صَوْمِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ , فَأَرْسَلَتْ إلَيْهِ بِلَبَنٍ فَشَرِبَ وَهُوَ يَخْطُبُ النَّاسَ بِعَرَفَةَ } . مُتَّفَقٌ عَلَيْهِ ) . 1711في الدر وَهُوَ ) أَقْسَامٌ ثَمَانِيَةٌ : ( فَرْضٌ ) وَهُوَ نَوْعَانِ : مُعَيَّنٌ ( كَصَوْمِ رَمَضَانَ أَدَاءً وَ ) غَيْرُ مُعَيَّنٍ كَصَوْمِهِ ( قَضَاءً وَ ) صَوْمُ ( الْكَفَّارَاتِ ) لَكِنَّهُ فَرْضٌ عَمَلًا لَا اعْتِقَادًا وَلِذَا لَا يَكْفُرُ جَاحِدُهُ قَالَ الْبَهْنَسِيُّ تَبَعًا لِابْنِ الْكَمَالِ . ( وَوَاجِبٌ ) وَهُوَ نَوْعَانِ : مُعَيَّنٌ ( كَالنَّذْرِ الْمُعَيَّنِ , وَ ) غَيْرُ مُعَيَّنٍ كَالنَّذْرِ ( الْمُطْلَقِ ) وَأَمَّا قوله تعالى - { وَلْيُوفُوا نُذُورَهُمْ } - فَدَخَلَهُ الْخُصُوصُ كَالنَّذْرِ بِمَعْصِيَةٍ فَلَمْ يَبْقَ قَطْعِيًّا ( وَقِيلَ ) قَائِلُهُ الْأَكْمَلُ وَغَيْرُهُ وَاعْتَمَدَهُ الشُّرُنْبُلَالِيُّ , لَكِنْ تَعَقَّبَهُ سَعْدِيٌّ بِالْفَرْقِ بِأَنَّ الْمَنْذُورَةَ لَا تُؤَدَّى بَعْدَ صَلَاةِ الْعَصْرِ بِخِلَافِ الْفَائِتَةِ ( هُوَ فَرْضٌ عَلَى الْأَظْهَرِ ) كَالْكَفَّارَاتِ يَعْنِي عَمَلًا لِأَنَّ مُطْلَقَ الْإِجْمَاعِ لَا يُفِيدُ الْفَرْضَ الْقَطْعِيَّ كَمَا بَسَطَهُ خُسْرو ( وَنَفْلٌ كَغَيْرِهِمَا ) يَعُمُّ السُّنَّةَ كَصَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ مَعَ التَّاسِعِ . وَالْمَنْدُوبَ كَأَيَّامِ الْبِيضِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَهْرٍ وَيَوْمِ الْجُمُعَةِ وَلَوْ مُنْفَرِدًا وَعَرَفَةَ وَلَوْ لِحَاجٍّ لَمْ يُضْعِفْهُ . وَالْمَكْرُوهُ تَحْرِيمًا كَالْعِيدَيْنِ . وَتَنْزِيهًا كَعَاشُورَاءَ وَحْدَهُ وَسَبْتٍ وَحْدَهُ وَنَيْرُوزَ وَمِهْرَجَانٍ إنْ تَعَمَّدْهُ وَصَوْمِ دَهْرِهِ وَصَوْمِ صَمْتٍ وَوِصَالٍ وَإِنْ أَفْطَرَ الْأَيَّامَ الْخَمْسَةَ , وَهَذَا عِنْدَ أَبِي يُوسُفَ كَمَا فِي الْمُحِيطِ فَهِيَ خَمْسَةَ عَشَرَ . .في البدائع:وَأَمَّا صَوْمُ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ : فَفِي حَقِّ غَيْرِ الْحَاجِّ مُسْتَحَبٌّ , لِكَثْرَةِ الْأَحَادِيثِ الْوَارِدَةِ بِالنَّدْبِ إلَى صَوْمِهِ , وَلِأَنَّ لَهُ فَضِيلَةً عَلَى غَيْرِهِ مِنْ الْأَيَّامِ , وَكَذَلِكَ فِي حَقِّ الْحَاجِّ إنْ كَانَ لَا يُضْعِفُهُ عَنْ الْوُقُوفِ , وَالدُّعَاءِ لِمَا فِيهِ مِنْ الْجَمْعِ بَيْنَ الْقُرْبَتَيْنِ وَإِنْ كَانَ يُضْعِفُهُ عَنْ ذَلِكَ يُكْرَهُ لِأَنَّ فَضِيلَةَ صَوْمِ هَذَا الْيَوْمِ مِمَّا يُمْكِنُ اسْتِدْرَاكُهَا فِي غَيْرِ هَذِهِ السَّنَةِ , وَيُسْتَدْرَكُ عَادَةً , فَأَمَّا فَضِيلَةُ الْوُقُوفِ , وَالدُّعَاءِ فِيهِ لَا يُسْتَدْرَكُ فِي حَقِّ عَامَّةِ النَّاسِ عَادَةً إلَّا فِي الْعُمُرِ مَرَّةً وَاحِدَةً , فَكَانَ إحْرَازُهَا أَوْلَىالفتاوى لابن تيمية: 2/477354 - 24 - وَسُئِلَ رحمه الله تعالى , عَنْ عَشْرِ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ , وَالْعَشْرِ الْأَوَاخِرِ مِنْ رَمَضَانَ . أَيُّهُمَا أَفْضَلُ ؟ . أَجَابَ : أَيَّامُ عَشْرِ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ أَفْضَلُ مِنْ أَيَّامِ الْعَشْرِ مِنْ رَمَضَانَ , وَاللَّيَالِي الْعَشْرُ الْأَوَاخِرُ مِنْ رَمَضَانَ أَفْضَلُ مِنْ لَيَالِي عَشْرِ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ . قَالَ ابْنُ الْقَيِّمِ : وَإِذَا تَأَمَّلَ الْفَاضِلُ اللَّبِيبُ هَذَا الْجَوَابِ