Dhul-Hijjah in the Quran & Sunnah

Allah Himself swears by the “Ten Nights” in Surah Al-Fajr (89:1-2), a profound nod to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized:

“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Sahih Bukhari).

This Hadith is a call to immerse oneself in dhikr, salawat, and acts of charity, reflecting the teachings of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (rah), who stressed the importance of reviving the Sunnah during these blessed days.

Virtues of the First 10 Days

1. A Spiritual Marathon:
   These days surpass even Ramadan in virtue, as narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA). Fasting, Quran recitation, and night prayers (Tahajjud) become keys to divine proximity.
2. The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah):
   Fasting on this day expiates sins for two years (Sahih Muslim). For those not performing Hajj, Barelvi scholars encourage reciting Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk (Here I am, O Allah, here I am) to spiritually join the pilgrims.
3. Takbeer Tashreeq:
   From Fajr on the 9th until Asr on the 13th, the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Illallah…) resounds in homes and mosques, a collective declaration of Allah’s greatness.

Barelvi Perspective: Love, Legacy, and Loyalty

The Barelvi school, rooted in the Hanafi tradition and Sufi spirituality, views Dhul-Hijjah as a time to:

• Revive the love of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), whose unwavering faith is the cornerstone of Hajj.
• Celebrate the Urs (spiritual anniversary) of saints, aligning their teachings with the month’s blessings.
• Emphasize Qurbani as an act of tasleem (submission), mirroring Ibrahim’s sacrifice.

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (rah) wrote extensively about the barakah of Dhul-Hijjah, urging believers to recite Durood-e-Taj and seek intercession (tawassul) through the Prophet ﷺ during this month.

Key Acts of Worship in Dhul-Hijjah

1. Fasting: Especially on the 9th (Day of Arafah) and the first nine days.
2. Qurbani: Sacrificing an animal in the name of Allah, following the Sunnah of Ibrahim (AS).
3. Increased Dhikr: Reciting SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and La Ilaha Illallah.
4. Charity: Supporting the poor to ensure they too enjoy Eid’s blessings.

Barelvi Tip: Begin each day with Durood-e-Ibrahimi and distribute sweets in the Prophet’s ﷺ name to honor his legacy.

Common Misconceptions & Clarifications

• Myth: “Only Hajj pilgrims benefit from Dhul-Hijjah.”
  Truth: The month’s blessings are universal. Even simple acts like reciting Salawat or helping neighbors carry immense reward.
• Myth: “Qurbani is optional.”
  Truth: For those who meet the financial criteria, Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) in the Hanafi school.

Actionable Tips for Maximizing Rewards

1. Daily Routine:
   • Fajr prayer + 10 minutes of Istighfar.
   • Recite Surah Al-Ikhlas 12 times daily (Imam Ahmed Raza’s recommendation).
2. Night of Eid: Perform 2 rak’ahs of nafl with the intention of gratitude.
3. Community Unity: Visit local mosques for collective Takbeer and donate to Barelvi-led charities.

Conclusion: A Month of Divine Proximity

Dhul-Hijjah is not a historical relic—it’s a living, breathing opportunity to transcend worldly distractions and reconnect with Allah. For Sunni Barelvi Muslims, it’s a month to celebrate the Noor (light) of the Prophet ﷺ, the courage of Ibrahim (AS), and the unity of the Ummah. As the crescent of Dhul-Hijjah rises, let your heart whisper: Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk—a pledge of love, loyalty, and eternal submission.