English

The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah: virtue and deeds

Short answerThe first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are the best days of the year for righteous deeds. In them it is recommended to increase remembrance, takbir, fasting (especially Arafah) and charity, ending with Eid al-Adha. The pilgrims perform Hajj in these days.

Next date (expected)Friday, 7 May 2027
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Date per the Umm al-Qura calendar, confirmed by moon sighting.

Their virtue

Hadith
مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ الْعَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ فِيهَا أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللَّهِ مِنْ هَذِهِ الْأَيَّامِ — يَعْنِي أَيَّامَ الْعَشْرِ

There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to God than these ten days.

Abu Dawud 2438, At-Tirmidhi 757

What to do

  • Fast from 1 to 9 Dhul-Hijjah if able, most emphasised on Arafah.
  • Increase tahlil, takbir and tahmid.
  • Charity, kindness to parents and Quran recitation.
  • Offer the sacrifice if intended, and one intending it refrains from cutting hair and nails after the month begins.

Frequently asked questions

How do these ten days differ from the last ten nights of Ramadan?

The first are the best days of the year; the second contain the best nights, including Laylat al-Qadr.

Texts and translations are under scholarly review.