Why these days are special

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that no good deeds on other days are more beloved to Allah than good deeds in these ten days (Sahih al-Bukhari). His companions asked if this includes striving in the way of Allah. He said that it does, except for a person who went out with his life and his wealth and returned with nothing.

Many scholars of tafsir also understand the "ten nights" in Quran 89:2 to mean these days. They include the day of Arafah, and they lead to the day of sacrifice.

Fasting, especially the day of Arafah

Scholars encourage fasting in the first nine days, because fasting is a good deed and these days have a special reward. You can fast all nine, or only the days that are easy for you. Nobody should hurt their health to do it.

The day of Arafah, the 9th, is the most stressed. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that fasting it is hoped to erase the sins of the year before and the year after (Sahih Muslim). This is for people who are not performing Hajj.

Do not fast on the day of Eid itself. The three days after it are days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah.

Takbir, dhikr and other good deeds

Increase your dhikr (remembrance of Allah) in these days. This includes saying Allahu akbar (Allah is the Greatest), La ilaha illa Allah, and Alhamdulillah. The companions were known to say takbir aloud in public places during these days.

You can add other simple deeds:

  • Pray your five prayers on time, and add voluntary prayers.
  • Recite and reflect on the Quran.
  • Give charity and help people in need.
  • Keep ties with your relatives and make peace with others.
  • Ask Allah for forgiveness and turn back to Him.

Eid al-Adha and udhiyah

Eid al-Adha is on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims pray the Eid prayer, and then those who are able offer udhiyah, the sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow or camel. This remembers the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him).

Scholars differ on the ruling. Some say udhiyah is obligatory for those who can afford it. Many others say it is a strongly recommended Sunnah. The meat is eaten, shared with family and given to people in need.

Hair and nails for the one who intends to sacrifice

Umm Salamah reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that when the new moon of Dhul Hijjah appears, a person who intends to sacrifice should not cut his hair or nails (Sahih Muslim). Many scholars therefore advise staying away from this from the start of the month until the sacrifice is done.

Scholars differ on whether this is obligatory or only recommended. Some say it is obligatory to avoid it, many say it is recommended, and the Hanafi school sees no restriction. If you need to cut something because of a real need, or if you forgot, ask a qualified local scholar.

General information for learning, not a fatwa. For your own situation, ask a qualified scholar.

Sources

  • Sahih al-Bukhari (Book of the Two Eids)
  • Sahih Muslim (Book of Fasting)
  • Sahih Muslim (Book of Sacrifices)
  • Quran 89:2
  • Quran 22:28