Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. For Muslims around the world, it holds immense spiritual value. It’s not just the month of Hajj and Eid al-Adha; it’s one of the four sacred months of the Islamic calendar. Allah Himself has elevated the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, making them more rewarding than any other days.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” – Bukhari
This makes it a once-a-year opportunity to grow closer to Allah through prayer, fasting, remembrance, charity, and sacrifice.
During Dhul Hijjah, millions of Muslims gather in Makkah to perform Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam. It’s a spiritual journey that signifies unity, humility, and submission to Allah. It brings people from every corner of the world, dressed alike, standing shoulder to shoulder with no difference in status, race, or community, a powerful reminder of equality.
While not everyone can perform Hajj, its presence reminds us of our connection to a global ummah and the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who submitted to the will of Allah without hesitation. His legacy lives on in every ritual performed during Hajj.
Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (AS) for the sake of Allah. Today, Muslims around the world honor this moment by offering Qurbani (Udhiyah) and sharing the meat in three parts: one-third for the poor, one-third for family, friends, and neighbors, and one-third kept for your own household.
In 2025, Eid al-Adha is expected to occur on Friday, June 06, subject to moonsighting.
The first ten days are the best time of the year to increase your good deeds. Fasting, especially on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhu al-Hijjah), is highly recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” – Muslim
Even if you can’t perform Hajj, you can still draw close to Allah through fasting, dhikr, charity, and acts of service. Use these days to reset your intentions, seek forgiveness, and build habits that last beyond Dhul Hijjah.
One of the most important days in the Islamic calendar, the Day of Arafah (9th Dhu al-Hijjah), is when pilgrims stand in supplication at Mount Arafat. For those at home, it’s a powerful day for dua, forgiveness, and fasting.
It is reported in the Quran:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” – Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:3
Use this day to reflect, repent, and reconnect with Allah. It is the day when many hearts are turned, and sins are wiped clean.
The Day of Arafah is also an incredible opportunity to pray for others, family, community, and the global ummah, especially those suffering in crisis zones.
At Human Concern International (HCI), Dhul Hijjah is not just a sacred time, it’s an opportunity to serve those in need. As one of the oldest Muslim-led humanitarian organizations, our mission is to respond to urgent needs and build long-term solutions for vulnerable communities.
Through our Qurbani program, we distribute meat to families who otherwise would not be able to afford it. In previous years, your donations have fed thousands across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These are families who often rely on Qurbani meat as their only source of animal protein for the entire year.
Beyond Qurbani, HCI also supports emergency relief, orphan sponsorship, clean water initiatives, and long-term development projects, all rooted in Islamic values.
This Dhul Hijjah, join us in making an impact.
If you are financially able, this is the time to give. It’s a direct way to follow the sunnah and uplift lives. Qurbani is not just about tradition, it’s about impact.
Even the smallest act of charity is multiplied in reward during these blessed days. Whether it’s feeding a hungry child or sponsoring a well, your help reaches those in greatest need. Sadaqah brings barakah into your life, into your health, your family, and your provision. This is the time to give sincerely for the sake of Allah.
Recite phrases like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illAllah, Allahu Akbar throughout the day. Keep your tongue moist with remembrance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged increased dhikr specifically during these ten days.
1st of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH is anticipated to be on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
You can still fast, make dua, give charity, and perform extra prayers to gain immense rewards during the first ten days.
Every Muslim who is financially able and meets the criteria should offer Qurbani. It’s a sunnah mu’akkadah, a highly recommended act.
Yes, and it’s one of the easiest and most impactful ways to ensure your sacrifice reaches those in need. HCI handles the process from start to finish.
According to hadith, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the most beloved days to Allah, even more than the last ten nights of Ramadan.
Dhul Hijjah is not just about rituals. It’s about realigning your heart with what matters: submission, sacrifice, and service. Whether you’re fasting at home or donating Qurbani overseas, every act counts.
Let this sacred month bring you closer to Allah and allow you to uplift someone else through your generosity. Be the reason a child smiles on Eid. Be the reason a mother doesn’t go to bed hungry. Be the reason someone feels the mercy of Allah through your actions.
As the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah is helping His servant as long as the servant is helping his brother.” – Sahih Muslim, 2699
Make Every Day Count – Donate Now and Maximize Your Rewards.
Human Concern International is the oldest Muslim relief organization in Canada, fighting poverty for over 45 years.
We are a registered charity with the CRA. Charitable Registration No. 107497125 RR 0001