Dhul Hijjah 2024
Islamic Calendar 1445
As we approach the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah 2024, it's a time of profound spiritual significance for Muslims around the globe. This month is a time for deep reflection, increased worship and righteous deeds, and communal connections through the performance of Qurbani. In this post, we’ll explore the virtues of Dhul Hijjah, the pivotal days of Hajj, the essence of Qurbani, and how you can fulfil your religious duties right here in Canada through MWC's Qurbani campaign.
Understanding Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah, one of Islam’s four sacred months, marks the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This month is distinguished by the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid ul-Adha, celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide. This year, the month of Dhul Hijjah 1445 will approximately begin on 7 June 2024, marking the final month of the Hijri year. It is a month of blessings, spirituality, forgiveness and gratitude.
The First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that there are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved by Allah than the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Although the last ten nights of Ramadan hold immense rewards through the gift of Laylatul Qadr, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the best days of the entire year. Good deeds performed during these first ten days hold immense reward, more than any other time. It is also a time in which Muslims hope to have their sins forgiven.
However, just as good deeds hold amplified reward during these virtuous days, misdeeds are also seen as more heinous and distasteful.
Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds and acts of worship during this period through fasting, prayer, recitation of the Quran, and charity for Allah's sake. These days leading up to the Day of Arafah, a day in which those performing Hajj stand on the plains of Arafah whilst they and the rest of the Muslims across the globe seek forgiveness, repentance and Divine downpour.
The Hajj Pilgrimage
The Hajj is a holy pilgrimage and one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims perform hajj each year during the days of Dhul Hijjah. This year, the Hajj is anticipated to take place from 14 June until 19 June 2024 (the 8th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah).
Performing Hajj is an Islamic tradition and obligation for all those who are physically and financially able. It's a journey that spiritually transports pilgrims back to the footsteps of the beloved Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his unwavering faith in Allah. This blessed journey encompasses rites including Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'ee, and standing on the plains of Arafah—a moment that exemplifies profound supplication and connection to the divine.
Hajj: A Day-By-Day Guide
Hajj is one of the holiest periods of the Islamic calendar. It is an obligatory act for Muslims and allows them to gain immense rewards.
Day 1
Hajj starts towards the end of the beloved ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Starting on day 8 of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims enter Makkah in Ihram and depart to Mina after Fajr, where they spend the night.
Day 2
On the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Arafah, pilgrims leave for the plains of Arafah, one of two very special events during this holy month, with the second being the occasion of Eid ul Adha. The day of Arafah is a blessed day of seeking forgiveness, exerting oneself in worship, and knocking on the doors of Allah, with the hope that Allah grants us that which He has favoured His righteous servants who came before us. It is undoubtedly one of the most blessed days in the Islamic year for those performing Hajj and for all Muslims around the world.
Day 3
On the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims offer their Fajr prayers in Muzdalifah before departing to Mina to pelt small stones or pebbles at the Jamarah al Aqabah. This is known as Rami. Thereafter, they go on to sacrifice an animal, shave/trim their hair, and remove their Ihram. They then return to the Holy Sanctuary, circumambulate the Kaaba, and perform Sai's rounds between the mountains of Safa and Marwa. This is known as Tawaf-al Ziyarah. (Tawaf-al Ziyarah is to be performed before the sunset of 12 Dhul Hijjah). At the end of this long day, which is the day of Eid Al Adha, pilgrims then depart to Mina.
Day 3
On the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims offer their Fajr prayers in Muzdalifah before departing to Mina to pelt small stones or pebbles at the Jamarah al Aqabah. This is known as Rami. Thereafter, they go on to sacrifice an animal, shave/trim their hair, and remove their Ihram. They then return to the Holy Sanctuary, circumambulate the Kaaba, and perform Sai's rounds between the mountains of Safa and Marwa. This is known as Tawaf-al Ziyarah. (Tawaf-al Ziyarah is to be performed before the sunset of 12 Dhul Hijjah). At the end of this long day, which is the day of Eid Al Adha, pilgrims then depart to Mina.
Day 4
On the eleventh day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims offer Duhr prayer in Mina before proceeding to pelt more stones at the Jamaraat (Rami) after Zawal. This practice signifies the renunciation of Shaytaan and the vow to intensify one's fight against Satanic inclinations.
Day 5
The final day of Dhul Hijjah pans out as follows:
Offer Duhr prayer in Mina.
Pelt the Jamaraat (Rami) after Zawal.
Leave for Makkah. Reach the destination before sunset.
Perform Tawaf al-Wida (If the pilgrim is not a resident of Mecca). This is known as the farewell Tawaf.
Qurbani: The Story and Its Significance
Qurbani, or Udhiyah, symbolizes the readiness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah’s command. It's a testament to unwavering faith and submission.
The Story of Ismail (AS) in the Quran
"When the boy was old enough to work with his father, Abraham said, ‘My son, I have seen myself sacrificing you in a dream. What do you think?’ He said, ‘Father, do as you are commanded and, God willing, you will find me steadfast.
When they had both submitted to God and he had laid his son down on the side of his face.
We called out to him, "O Abraham!
You have already fulfilled the vision.” Indeed, this is how We reward the good-doers.
That was truly a revealing test.
And We ransomed his son with a great sacrifice.
And blessed Abraham with honourable mention among later generations.
“Peace be upon Abraham.”
This is how We reward the good-doers.
He was truly one of Our faithful servants."
This year, the month of Dhul Hijjah 1445 will approximately begin on 7 June 2024, marking the final month of the Hijri year. It is a month of blessings, spirituality, forgiveness and gratitude.
Surah Saffat (37) verses 102 - 111
Qurbani: An Act of Sharing
This act is commemorated during the days of Dhul Hijjah, in the lead-up to Eid ul-Adha, when Muslims across the world perform Qurbani, slaughtering livestock and distributing the meat among family, friends, and the needy. This obligation not only honours a pivotal moment in Islamic history but also promotes the spirit of sharing and compassion towards those less fortunate, allowing them to partake in the festivities of Eid. This good deed helps relieve food poverty and allows impoverished Muslims around the world to partake in the celebrations. Qurbani allows them to eat meat, which is a rarity for many families around the world.
Fulfilling Your Qurbani Obligation with MWC
If you're a Muslim looking to fulfil your Qurbani obligation and spread some love, we suggest fulfilling this Eid sacrifice with Muslim Welfare Canada (MWC). We've been distributing Qurbani meat to those in need for many years. Our Qurbani operation ensures your donations reach those most in need living in poverty around the world, ensuring they too can partake in the celebrations of Eid ul Adha, with dignity and nourishment. A hand of generosity that spans continents, touching the lives of countless individuals. This obligation not only honours a pivotal moment in Islamic history but also promotes the spirit of sharing and compassion towards those less fortunate, allowing them to partake in the festivities of Eid. This good deed helps relieve food poverty and allows impoverished Muslims around the world to partake in the celebrations. Qurbani allows them to eat meat, which is a rarity for many families around the world.
Conclusion
The month of Dhul Hijjah reminds us of faith, sacrifice, and communal welfare. It's a time to reflect on our spiritual journey and assess how we can contribute positively to the world around us. Whether through engaging in acts of worship in the blessed first ten days, understanding the essence of the Hajj pilgrimage, or fulfilling our Qurbani obligation, this month offers numerous pathways to draw closer to Allah and embody the principles of empathy and kindness.This obligation not only honours a pivotal moment in Islamic history but also promotes the spirit of sharing and compassion towards those less fortunate, allowing them to partake in the festivities of Eid. This good deed helps relieve food poverty and allows impoverished Muslims around the world to partake in the celebrations. Qurbani allows them to eat meat, which is a rarity for many families around the world.
Seize the opportunity this Dhul Hijjah to deepen your spiritual practices, connect with the wider Ummah, and extend a helping hand through your Qurbani. Remember, each act of kindness and devotion during this sacred month is multiplied in reward and benefit.
Take hold of the opportunities to gain great good in this life and the next, offered to us by our Lord, the Most Generous, the Most High.
