From the Blessings of Ramadan to the Virtues of Dhul Hijjah: Reviving Our Emaan

السَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَةُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكاتُهُ‎  

It feels like only yesterday that we were blessed with the holy month of Ramadan and celebrated the joyous occasion of Eid ul-Fitr. Now, the Ummah prepares to transition into the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah. This presents a gracious opportunity to claim profound rewards, spiritual renewal, self-reflection, and fulfil our religious obligations.

Blessings Earnt and Lessons Learnt?

As the echoes of the last Ramadan Taraweeh fade, let us reflect: What lessons did we learn? How did we grow as Muslims? Did we transform our lives for the better? And most importantly, has our life post-Ramadan looked exactly the same as our life pre-Ramadan? The true test lies in nurturing the seeds of change planted within those blessed days.

The virtuous month of Dhul Hijjah is a merciful chance to rectify any shortcomings or mistakes, revive our Emaan, and increase our worship to Allahﷻ. Whilst He may have forgiven our previous sins through our sincere observance of Ramadan, we must avoid becoming complacent in our Deen.

The Prophet Muhammadﷺ emphasised the virtues of this month, saying, "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days" –[Bukhari].

The Virtues of Dhul Hijjah

Following the blessed month of Ramadan, we enter Dhul Hijjah– the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. This holy month encompasses two of Islam’s most sacred days: the Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are marked by Hajj, the Fifth Pillar of Islam. During this period, millions of pilgrims from around the world gather in the holy city of Makkah to perform a series of sacred rituals, symbolising unity, submission, and the remembrance of Allahﷻ.

These virtuous days offer us the chance to multiply our good deeds and seek Allah’sﷻ forgiveness. Fasting, prayer, charity, and righteous deeds hold immense rewards during this special time for the Ummah. We should increase our acts of Ibadah to elevate our Emaan and draw closer to our Creator.

Reviving Our Emaan to Uplift the Ummah

As the virtuous days of Dhul Hijjah grace us with their presence, we are met with a powerful opportunity to revive and strengthen our Emaan. This month is a gateway to sustain the positive changes made through Ramadan. It is a time for self-reflection, seeking forgiveness, and striving to become better servants of Allahﷻ. Islam is a way of life that calls us to serve humanity and fulfil our responsibilities towards the Ummah.

This month, embrace the spirit of sacrifice and generosity. The Prophet Muhammadﷺ said, "The believer's shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity" –[Tirmidhi]. Extend a helping hand to those in need, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within the Ummah. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are the best in Islam, so spread your charitable donations across them and maximise your rewards, InshaAllah.

Let us be among those whom the Noble Qur’an describes as: "They used to sleep but little by night, and in the hours before dawn, they were found asking forgiveness" –[51:17-18]. Embrace the blessings of Dhul Hijjah through increased Tahajjud prayers, remembrance of Allahﷻ, more charitable acts and seeking forgiveness. May Allahﷻ accept our efforts and guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.

جَزَاكَ ٱللَّٰهُ خَيْرًا