Category Archives: The Month of Dhul-Hijjah
The Animal Sacrifice!
“It is not their meat nor their blood, that reaches Allaah: it is your piety that reaches Him..” – (The Qur’an, Chapter 22: Verse 37)
The Virtues of the Day of Arafat
Praise be to Allaah.
1.It is the day on which the religion was perfected and Allaah’s Favour was completed.
In Al-Saheehayn it was reported from Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) that a Jewish man said to him, ‘O Ameer al-Mu’mineen, there is an aayah in your Book which you recite; if it had come to us Jews, we would have taken that day as an Eid (festival).’ Umar said, ‘Which aayah?’ He said: ‘This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.’ [al-Maa'idah 5:3 interpretation of the meaning].
Umar said, ‘We know on which day and in which place that was revealed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). It was when he was standing in Arafaah on a Friday.’
2.It is a day of Eid for the people who are in that place.
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Yawm Arafaah (the day of Arafaah), Yawm al-Nahr (the Day of Sacrifice) and Ayyaam al-Tashreeq (the 3 days following Yawm al-Nahr) are Eid (festival) for us, the people of Islam. These are days of eating and drinking. This was narrated by the authors of al-Sunan.
It was reported that Umar ibn al-Khattaab said: ‘It i.e., the aayah ‘This day I have perfected’ was revealed on a Friday, the Day of Arafaah, both of which praise be to Allaah are Eids for us.’
3.It is a day by which Allaah swore an oath.
A humble request from muslim brothers who sacrifice Animals for the sake of Allah swt
Let us follow the basic etiquette while we sacrifice the animal during Eid Al-Adha.
Let’s make sure we do not block the drains, leave the wastes on roads, cause discomfort and problems to others citizens and pollute the environment for diseases to spread.
…
To clear the wastes, the best way is to make a burrow in the ground, dump the entire biodegradable waste in it and cover it with soil. We can thereby convert it to manure and make the soil even more fertile.
As told by our Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon Him) –“Cleanliness is half the faith”. Let us not harm the environment as harmed in other religious practices in India.
Prophet Mohammed(pbuh) also said, “..…By Him, Who controls my life in His hand, no such person shall enter Paradise, whose neighbour was not safe from his transgressions”
Ref: Bukhārī (Nos. 10, 11 and 6119), Muslim (Nos. 40, 41 and 42)
The masnoon dua of Udhiya / Qurbani/Sacrifice
بسم اللہ الرحمن الرحیم
إِنِّي وَجَّهْتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّماَوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ مِلَّةَ إِبْرَاهِيمَ حَنِيفَاً وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ . إِنَّ صَلاتِي وَنُسُكِي وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلَّهِ رَبِّ العَالَمِينَ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَبِذَلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَأَنَا أَوَّلُ المُسْلِمِينَ ، اللَّهُمَّ مِنْكَ وَلَكَ
“Verily I have turned my face to that Being who has created the skies and the Earth in the state of the Straight Deen of Ibrahim – and I am not amongst the Mushrikeen. Definitely, my Prayer, my Worship and my living and dying is all for ALLAH, who is the Lord of the worlds, and who has no partner. I have been ordered (all that passed) I am amongst the Muslimeen (the obedient).
(Mishkat)
The Takbirs of Eid Start on This Day: The Fiqh
Legal status:
It is necessary (wajib) for every Muslim (male or female, whether praying in congregation or alone) to make the following takbir (declaration of the greatness of Allah) immediately after each obligatory (fard) prayer.
Time:
From: the Fajr Prayer on the 9th of Dhu’l Hijjah (the Day of `Arafah)
To: the Asr Prayer on the 13th of Dhu’l Hijjah.
Thus, these takbirs last 5 days, and 23 prayers.
The takbirs:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Llahu.
Wa Llahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahi Lhamd .
( اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُوَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْدُ )
Fasting on 9th of Dhul Hijjah
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said about the fasting on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah that: “It Expiates the Sins of the Previous year and that of the following year.” [Sahih Muslim]
First ten days of Dhul Hijjah; Days of virtue and righteous deeds
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Ibn ‘Abbas says about the Aayah, “Remember ALLAH during the well known days,” that it refers to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. [This is related by al-Bukhari]
“There is no day upon which Allah frees His servants from the Hellfire more than the day of Arafat.”
[Sahih Muslim 1348]
مَا مِنْ يَوْمٍ أَكْثَرَ مِنْ أَنْ يُعْتِقَ اللَّهُ فِيهِ عَبْدًا مِنْ النَّارِ مِنْ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ
THE SACRED MONTH OF MUHARRAM AND SOME MISCONCEPTIONS
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Muharram is the month with which the Muslims begin their lunar (Hejira) Calendar. It is one of the four sanctified months about which the Holy Quran Says (what means): {Indeed, the number of months with ALLAH is twelve [lunar] months in the register of ALLAH [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred…} [Holy Quran 9: 36]
These four months, according to the authentic traditions (Prophetic narrations), are Thul-Qi’dah, Thul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. All the commentators of the Noble Quran are unanimous on this point, because the Noble Prophet declared in his sermon on the occasion of his last Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah): “One year consists of twelve months, of which four are sanctified months, three of them are in sequence; Thul-Qi’dah, Thul-Hijjah, Muharram, and the fourth is Rajab.”
The specific mention of these four months does not mean that any other month has no sanctity, because the month of Ramadhaan is admittedly the most sanctified month in the year. But these four months were specifically termed as sanctified months for the simple reason that even the pagans of Makkah accepted their sanctity.
The sanctity of these four months was established right from the day ALLAH created the universe. Since the Pagans of Makkah attributed themselves to Ibraaheem (Abraham) who observed the sanctity of these months, they also observed the sanctity of these four months and despite their frequent tribal battles, they held it unlawful to fight in these months.
In Islam, the sanctity of these months was upheld and the Holy Quran referred to them as the “sanctified months”. Muharram has certain other characteristics special to it, which are stated below:
FASTING DURING THE MONTH:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: ‘The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadhaan are those of the month of Muharram.”
Although the fasts of the month of Muharram are not obligatory, yet one who fasts in these days out of his own will is entitled to a great reward by ALLAH Almighty. The Hadeeth cited above signifies that the fasts of the month of Muharram are most rewardable ones among the voluntary fasts. It does not mean that the award promised for fasts of Muharram can be achieved only by fasting for the whole month. On the contrary, each fast during this month has merit. Therefore, one should avail of this opportunity as much as he can.
THE DAY OF ‘AASHOORAA’:
Although Muharram is a sanctified month as a whole, yet, the 10th day of Muharram is the most sacred among all its days. The day is named ‘Aashooraa’. According to Ibn ‘Abbaas the Prophet when he migrated to Madeenah, found that the Jews of Madeenah used to fast on the 10th day of Muharram. They said that it was the day on which Prophet Moosa (Moses) and his followers crossed the Red Sea miraculously and the Pharaoh was drowned in its waters. On hearing this from the Jews, the Prophet said, “We are worthier of Moosa than you,” and directed the Muslims to fast on the day of ‘Aashooraa’. [Abu Daawood]
It is also reported in a number of authentic traditions that in the beginning, fasting on the day of ‘Aashooraa’ was obligatory for the Muslims. It was later that the fasts of Ramadhaan were made obligatory and the fast on the day of ‘Aashooraa’ was made optional. ‘Aa’ishah said: “When the Prophet came to Madeenah, he fasted on the day of ‘Aashooraa’ and directed the people to do likewise. But when the fasts of Ramadhaan were made obligatory, the obligation of fasting was confined to Ramadhaan and the obligatory nature of the fast of ‘Aashooraa’ was abandoned. Whoever so desires should fast on it and any other who so likes can avoid fasting on it.” [Abu Daawood]
However, the Prophet used to fast on the day of ‘Aashooraa’ even after the fasting in Ramadhaan was made obligatory. Abdullaah Ibn Moosa reports that the Prophet preferred the fast of ‘Aashooraa’ on the fasts of other days and preferred the fasts of Ramadhaan on the fast of ‘Aashooraa’. [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
MISCONCEPTIONS AND INNOVATIONS:
However, there are some legends and misconceptions with regard to ‘Aashooraa’ that have managed to find their way into the minds of the unlearned, but have no support of authentic Islamic sources, some very common of them are these:
• This is the day on which Aadam was created.
• This is the day when Ibraaheem was born.
• This is the day when ALLAH accepted the repentance of Aadam .
• This is the day when Doomsday will take place. Whoever takes a bath on the day of ‘Aashooraa’ will never get ill.
All these and other similar whims and fancies are totally baseless and the traditions referred to in this respect are not worthy of any credit. Some people take it as Sunnah (established recommended practice) to prepare a particular type of meal on the day of ‘Aashooraa’. This practice, too, has no basis in the authentic Islamic sources.
Some other people attribute the sanctity of ‘Aashooraa’ to the martyrdom of Al-Hussayn . No doubt, the martyrdom of Al-Hussayn is one of the most tragic episodes of our history. Yet, the sanctity of ‘Aashooraa’ cannot be ascribed to this event for the simple reason that the sanctity of ‘Aashooraa’ was established during the days of the Prophet much earlier than the birth of Al-Hussayn . On the contrary, it is one of the merits of Al-Hussayn that his martyrdom took place on this blessed day.
Another misconception about the month of Muharram is that it is an evil or unlucky month, for Al-Hussayn was killed in it. It is for this misconception that some people avoid holding marriage ceremonies in the month of Muharram. This is again a baseless concept, which is contrary to the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah (Prophetic Tradition). If the death of an eminent person on a particular day renders that day unlucky for all times to come, one can hardly find a day of the year free from this bad luck because every day is associated with the demise of some eminent person. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet have liberated us from such superstitious beliefs.
LAMENTATIONS AND MOURNING:
Another wrong practice related to this month is to hold the lamentation and mourning ceremonies in the memory of martyrdom of Al-Hussayn . As mentioned earlier, the event of Karbalaa’ is one of the most tragic events of our history, but the Prophet has forbidden us from holding the mourning ceremonies on the death of any person.
The people of Pre-Islamic ignorance era used to mourn over their deceased through loud lamentations, by tearing their clothes and by beating their cheeks and chests.
The Prophet (PBUH) prevented the Muslims from doing all this and directed them to observe patience by saying “Inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raaji’oon” (To ALLAH We belong, and to Him is our return). A number of authentic narrations are available on the subject. To quote only one of them: “He is not from us who slaps his checks, tears his clothes and cries in the manner of the people of jahiliyyah (Pre-Islamic ignorance)”. [Sahih Al-Bukhaari]
All the prominent jurists are unanimous on the point that the mourning of this type is impermissible. Even Al-Hussayn shortly before his demise, had advised his beloved sister Zaynab not to mourn over his death in this manner. He said, “My dear sister! I swear upon you that in case I die you shall not tear your clothes, nor scratch your face, nor curse anyone for me or pray for your death.” (Al-Kaamil, Ibn Katheer vol. 4 pg. 24)
It is evident from this advice, that this type of mourning is condemned even by the blessed person for the memory of whom these mourning ceremonies are held.
Every Muslim should avoid this practice and abide by the teachings of the Prophet (pbuh).
Source: Islam Q&A
Fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharam
★ Why should we fast on 10th of Muharram?
عَنْ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا قَالَ : قَدِمَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ الْمَدِينَةَ فَرَأَى الْيَهُودَ تَصُومُ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ فَقَالَ مَا هَذَا قَالُوا هَذَا يَوْمٌ صَالِحٌ هَذَا يَوْمٌ نَجَّى اللَّهُ بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ مِنْ عَدُوِّهِمْ فَصَامَهُ مُوسَى قَالَ فَأَنَا أَحَقُّ بِمُوسَى مِنْكُمْ فَصَامَهُ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ
(صحيح البخاري : 1865)
English Translation:
Narrated Ibn ‘Abbas ( رضي الله عنه ): The Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) came to Madina and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashoora(10th day of Muharram). He asked them about that. They replied, “This is a good day, the day on which Allah rescued Bani Israel from their enemy. So, Moses fasted this day.” The Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم)said, “We have more claim over Moses than you.” So, the Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم)fasted on that day and ordered (the Muslims) to fast (on that day). (Sahih Bukhari 1865).
Urdu Translation:
سیدنا ابن عباس رضی اللہ عنہ کہتے ہیں کہ جب نبی کریم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم مدینہ میں تشریف لائے تو آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے یہودیوں کو دیکھا کہ وہ عاشورے کے دن روزہ رکھتے ہیں تو آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے ان سے پوچھا کہ: “ یہ کیا (وجہ ہے کہ تم عاشورے کا روزہ رکھتے ہو؟)۔” انھوں نے کہا کہ یہ ایک عمدہ دن ہے، یہ وہ دن ہے کہ جس میں اللہ تعالیٰ نے بنی اسرائیل کو ان کے دشمن سے نجات دی تھی لہٰذا موسیٰ علیہ السلام اس دن روزہ رکھتے تھے۔ تو نبی کریم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا: “ میں تم سے زیادہ موسیٰ علیہ السلام کا حقدار ہوں۔” پس آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے اس دن کا روزہ رکھا اور اس کے رکھنے کا حکم دیا۔
(صحيح البخاري : 1865)
★ Fasting on 9th of Muharram:
روى عَبْدَ اللَّهِ بْنَ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا قال : حِينَ صَامَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ قَالُوا يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ إِنَّهُ يَوْمٌ تُعَظِّمُهُ الْيَهُودُ وَالنَّصَارَى فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ فَإِذَا كَانَ الْعَامُ الْمُقْبِلُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ صُمْنَا الْيَوْمَ التَّاسِعَ قَالَ فَلَمْ يَأْتِ الْعَامُ الْمُقْبِلُ حَتَّى تُوُفِّيَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ . رواه مسلم 1916
Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas ( رضی اللہ تعالی عنہما ) said: When the Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora (10th day of Muharram)and told the people to fast, they said, “O Messenger of Allaah, this is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.” The Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Next year, if Allaah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the time the following year came, the Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) had passed away. ( Muslim, 1916. )
عبداللہ بن عباس رضی اللہ تعالی عنہما بیان کرتے ہيں کہ : جب نبی مکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے یوم عاشوراء کا روزہ خود بھی رکھا اوردوسروں کو بھی اس کا حکم دیا تو صحابہ کرام انہیں کہنے لگے یھودی اورعیسائي تو اس دن کی تعظیم کرتے ہیں ۔
تورسول اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم فرمانے لگے : آئندہ برس ہم ان شاء اللہ نو محرم کا روزہ رکھیں گے ، ابن عباس رضي اللہ تعالی کہتے ہیں کہ آئندہ برس آنے سے قبل ہی رسول اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم فوت ہوگۓ ۔
صحیح مسلم حدیث نمبر ( 1916 )
What is the wisdom behind fasting the ninth as well as the tenth?
The answer is:
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: The scholars among our companions and others said that there are several reasons for recommending fasting on the ninth day (Tasoo’a’):
1 – The intention behind it is to be different from the Jews who limit their fasting to the tenth day. This was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas.
2 – The intention was to join the fast of ‘Ashoora’ to another day, just as it is not allowed to fast on a Friday on its own [but it is allowed if one fasts the day before or the day after as well].
3 – The idea is to be on the safe side and make sure one is fasting on the tenth, in case the moon sighting was not accurate and what people think is the ninth is actually the tenth.
Virtues of the Day of Arafaah
✦ ▬▬▬▬▬▬ ✦ Virtues of the Day of Arafaah ✦ ▬▬▬▬▬▬ ✦
1. It is the day on which the religion was perfected and Allaah’s Favour was
completed. : In Al-Saheehayn it was reported from ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) that a Jewish man said to him, “O Ameer al-Mu’mineen, there is an aayah in your Book which you recite; if it had come to us Jews, we would have taken that day as an ‘Eid (festival).” ‘Umar said, “Which aayah?” He said: “This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” [al-Maa’idah 5:3 – interpretation of the meaning]. ‘Umar said, “We know on which day and in which place that was revealed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). It was when he was standing in ‘Arafaah on a Friday.”
2. It is a day of Eid for the people who are in that place.
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The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Yawm ‘Arafaah (the day of ‘Arafaah), Yawm al-Nahr (the Day of Sacrifice) and Ayyaam al-Tashreeq (the 3 days following Yawm al-Nahr) are Eid (festival) for us, the people of Islam. These are days of eating and drinking.” This was narrated by the authors of al-Sunan. It was reported that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab said: “It – i.e., the aayah ‘This day I have perfected…’ was revealed on a Friday, the Day of ‘Arafaah, both of which – praise be to Allaah – are Eids for us.”
3. It is a day by which Allaah swore an oath.
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The Almighty cannot swear by anything except that which is mighty. Yawm ‘Arafaah is the “witnessed day” mentioned in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
“By the witnessing day [Friday] and by the witnessed day [the Day of ‘Arafaah].” [al-Burooj 85:3].
It was reported from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The promised day is the Day of Resurrection, the witnessed day is the Day of ‘Arafaah, and the witnessing day is Friday.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani.
It is the “odd” [i.e., odd-numbered, Witr] by which Allaah swore in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
“And by the even and the odd” [al-Fajr 89:3]. Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “The even is the Day of al-Adhaa [i.e., 10th Dhoo’l-Hijjah] and the odd is the Day of ‘Arafaah [i.e., 9th Dhoo’l-Hijjah] This is also the view of ‘Ikrimah and al-Dahhaak.
4. Fasting on this day is an expiation for two years.
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It was reported from Abu Qutaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about fasting on the Day of ‘Arafaah. He said, “It expiates for the sins of the previous year and of the coming year.” Narrated by Muslim.
This (fasting) is mustahabb for those who are not on Hajj. In the case of the one who is on Hajj, it is not Sunnah for him to fast on the Day of ‘Arafaah, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not fast on this day in ‘Arafaah. It was narrated that he forbade fasting on the Day of ‘Arafaah in ‘Arafaah.
5. It is the day on which Allaah took the covenant from the progeny of Adam.
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It was reported that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah took the covenant from the loins of Adam in Na’maan, i.e., ‘Arafaah. He brought forth from his loins all his offspring and spread them before Him, then He addressed them, and said: ‘Am I not your Lord? They said, ‘Yes, we testify,’ let you should say on the Day of Resurrection: ‘Verily, we have been unaware of this.’ Or lest you should say: ‘It was only our fathers aforetime who took others as partners in worship along with Allaah, and we were (merely their) descendents after them; will You then destroy us because of the deeds of men who practised Al-Baatil (i.e., ploytheism and committing crimes and sins, invoking and worshipping others besides Allaah)?’ [al-A’raaf 7:172-173 – interpretation of the meaning].” Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani. And there is no greater day than this and no greater covenant than this.
6. It is the day of forgiveness of sins, freedom from the Fire and pride in the people who are there:
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In Saheeh Muslim it was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no day on which Allaah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of ‘Arafaah. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels, saying, ‘What do these people want?’”
It was reported from Ibn ‘Umar that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah expresses His pride to His angels at the time of ‘Ishaa’ on the Day of ‘Arafaah, about the people of ‘Arafaah. He says, ‘Look at My slaves who have come unkempt and dusty.’” Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani.
And Allaah knows best.
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid [http://islamqa.com/]
Eid ul-Adha
Eid-ul-Adha or ‘the feast of the sacrifice’, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unselfish act of sacrificing his son Ishmael to God. This important holiday is celebrated at the end of Hajj, which is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca. The ‘Festival of Sacrifice’ is followed by a ‘Feast of Sacrifice’, which pays homage to the prophet Abraham’s unselfish act of sacrificing his son, Ishmael, to God. In turn, God spared the boy’s life and instead substituted a sheep. Now in remembrance, people sacrifice a lamb, goat, or other animal, and give the meat to family, friends, relatives, and most importantly, the poor. This holiday is now celebrated in American cities with prayer, community gatherings, and the tradition of dressing up in special clothes to visit friends and relatives.
Eid ul-Adha occurs on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijja. It is one of two Eid festivals that Muslims celebrate. Eid ul-Adha is celebrated by Muslims worldwide as a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son (Ishmael) for God (Allah). This very important Muslim holiday is celebrated at the end of Hajj, which is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
Others celebrate Eid-ul Adha as it marks the end of the Pilgrimage or Hajj for the millions of Muslims who make the trip to Mecca each year. Like Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha also begins with a short prayer followed by a khutba. In Mecca, the Khutba is delivered from Mount Arafat.
People hold Eid parties and give presents to their children. This is just one more example of the diverse and rich culture that makes up our great nation.
TAKBIR-E-EID :
AllahuAkbar AllahuAkbar Lailaha illallah, AllahuAkbar WallahuAkbar walillahil hamd.
The Takbir should be recited after the maghrib salaat (Prayer) of Yaoum-e-Araafaht (The Day of Arafah)…
■ [ Takbeer on (Eid al-) Adhaa ]
Unrestricted Takbeer or Takbeer restricted to certain times during the days of Dhu’l-Hijjah
Question- About unrestricted Takbeer during Eid al-Adha – is the Takbeer following every prayer included in the unrestricted Takbeer?
Is it Sunnah, mustahabb or bid’ah?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
With regard to Takbeer on (Eid al-) Adhaa, it is prescribed from the beginning of the month until the end of the thirteenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“That they may witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e. reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade), and mention the Name of Allaah on appointed days”
[al-Hajj 22:28]
- which are the ten days; and because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And remember Allaah during the appointed Days [These are the three days of staying at Mina during the Hajj; 11th, 12th and 13th days of the month of Dhul-Hijjah]” [al-Baqarah 2:203]
- which are the days of Tashreeq.
And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The days of Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.”
(Narrated by Muslim in his Saheeh). Al-Bukhaari mentioned in his Saheeh, in a mu’allaq report, that
Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with them both) used to go out to the market-place on first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people used to recite Takbeer because of their Takbeer. ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab and his son ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allaah be pleased with them both) used to recite Takbeer during the days of Mina in the mosque and in the camps, and they would raise their voices until Mina echoed with their Takbeer.
It was narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and a group of the Sahaabah (may Allaah be pleased with them) used to recite Takbeer following each of the five prayers from Fajr on the day of ‘Arafaah until ‘Asr on the thirteenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah. This applies to those who are not on Hajj; for those who are on Hajj, they should concentrate on their ihraam and recite the Talbiyah, until they throw the stones at Jamarat al-‘Aqabah on the Day of Sacrifice (Yawm al-Nahr); after that they may recite Takbeer.
The Takbeer should start with the first stone thrown at the Jamarah mentioned. If the pilgrim recites the Takbeer along with the Talbiyah, that is OK, because Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said:
“Some would recite the Talbiyah on the Day of ‘Arafaah, and they were not told off for doing so, and some would recite Takbeer and they were not told off for doing so.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari).
But it is better for the one who is in ihraam to recite the Talbiyah and for the one who is not in ihraam to recite Takbeer on the days mentioned.
Hence we know that unrestricted takbeer and takbeer restricted to certain times are combined on five days, i.e., the Day of ‘Arafaah, the Day of Sacrifice and the three days of Tashreeq.
With regard to the eighth day (of Dhu’l-Hijjah) and the days preceding it, Takbeer on those days may be done at any times, not only at certain times, because of the aayahs and reports mentioned above.
In al-Musnad it is narrated from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are no days on which good deeds are greater or more beloved to Allaah than on these ten days, so recite much Tahleel (saying Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah), Takbeer (saying Allaahu akbar) and Tahmeed (saying al-hamdu Lillaah),” or similar words.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
lailaha illallah Muhamadu Rasool Allah s.a.w
AllahuAkbar!!!
★ Quick Reminders of Dhul-Hijjah ★
✦10 Days of Dhul Hijjah, Remiders✦
It is Sunnah to recitetakbeer (saying Allaahu akbar (Allaah is most great)), tahmeed (saying al-hamdu Lillah (praise be to Allaah), tahleel (saying Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah (There is no god but Allaah)) and tasbeeh (saying Subhaan-Al laah (Glory be to Allaah)), during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijj ah. These 10 days are better than allother days of the year!
So let’s take advantage InshaAllah!
Reminder:
{Narrated by Ahmad and Muslim}
-Its only for those people who wants to sacrifice & not for all as the hadith says …anyone of you wants to offer a sacrifice….
Reminder:
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
“Each person’s every joint must do a charity every day the Sun comes up:
to act justly between two people is a charity;
to help a man with his mount, lifting him onto it or hoisting up his belongings onto it is a charity;
a good word is a charity;
every step you take to perform prayers is a charity
and removing a harmful thing from the road is a charity.”
Related by Bukhari and Muslim.
Reminder:
The prohibition of cutting nails and hairs only applies to the person who wants to sacrifice. .. His family members are allowed to cut their hairs and nails..
Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
With regard to the family of the one who is going to offer the sacrifice, they are not subject to any obligation s, and it is not forbidden for them to remove anything fromtheir hair or nails, according to the sounder of the two scholarly views. Rather the ruling applies only to the one who is going to offer the sacrifice, the one who has bought the sacrificia l animal from his own wealth.
Fataawa Islamiyyah , 2/316.
Surely Allaah knows the best
Importance of the Month of ZulHajjah
1: Hajj is performed in this month.
2: The first ten days of ZulHajjah are extremely sacred and good deeds are most beloved to Allah in these ten days.
The Prophet said, “No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhal Hajja).” Then some companions of the Prophet said, “Not even Jihad?” He replied, “Not even Jihad”, except that of a man who does it by putting himself and his property in danger (for Allah’s sake) and does not return with any of those things.”(Bukhari 15: 86)
3: 9th ZulHajja is a very sacred day. When asked about the fast of 9th ZulHajjah (Yaum e Arafah) Rasool Allah saw said: “It expiates the sins of the preceding year and the coming year” (Muslim 6: 2603)
4: The second Muslim festival Eid ul Adha falls on the 10th of ZulHajjah.
5: An animal sacrifice in memory of the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (as) is offered on 10th ZulHajjah.
Remember to make the most out of these days,
Do not let them pass by like any other day…
★Fast
★Pray,
★Recite Qur’aan,
★Repent to Allaah,
★Make lots of Duáa
★Keep your tongue moist with remembrance of Allaah,
★Share your knowledge,
★Be Charitable,
★Be Dutiful to Parents,
★Keep ties of Kinship
Conditions for Udhiyah (Sacrifies):
-1-
It should be one of the an’aam class of animals, which are: camels, cattle, sheep and goats, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the Name of Allaah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food”
[ The Noble Quran, Surrah Al-Hajj 22:34]
Baheemat al-an’aam (translated here as “beast of cattle”) includes camels, cattle and sheep. This is what is well known among theArabs, and this was the view of al-Hasan, Qataadah and others.
-2-
It should have reached the age stipulated in sharee’ah, which is six months for a sheep and the age at which the animal is considered to be an adult for any other animal, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Do not sacrifice anything but an adult animal, unless it is difficult for you, in which case youmay slaughter a six-month old lamb (jadh’ah).” Narrated by Muslim.
A mature animal means one that is considered to be an adult.
In the case of camels it means one that is fiveyears old.
For cattle, it means one that is two years old.
For sheep it means one that is a year old.
The jadh’ah is that which is half a year old. Soit is not correct to sacrifice a camel, cow or goat that has not yet reached maturity, or a sheep that is less than six months old.
-3-
It should be free of any faults that would render it unsuitable for sacrifice, of which there are four:
i – An obvious defect in one eye, such as when the eye is sunken in its socket, or when it sticks out like a button, or is white and obviously defective.
ii – Obvious sickness, whose symptoms are clearly apparent in the animal, such as fever that prevents it from grazing and causes lossof appetite; mange that obviously affects its flesh or its health; deep wounds that affect its health, and so on.
iii – Obvious lameness, which prevents the animal from walking normally.
iv – Emaciation that leaves no marrow in the bones, when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about what should be avoided in udhiyah, hegestured with his hand and said: “Four: alame animal which is obviously lame, a one-eyed animal whose defect is obvious, a sick animal whose sickness is obvious, and an emaciated animal that no one would choose.” Narrated by Maalik in al-Muwatta’ from the hadeeth of al-Bara’ ibn ‘Aazib. According to a hadeeth narrated from him inal-Sunan, he said: “The Messenger of Allaah(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stood up among us and said: ‘There are fourwhich are not permissible for sacrifice,’” andhe mentioned something similar. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1148.
These four faults render an animal unsuitable for sacrifice, and they include similar faults or more severe faults. So the following animals are also unsuitable for sacrifice:
a- One that is blind in both eyes.
b- One that has eaten more than it can stand,until the danger has passed.
c- One that has encountered difficulty in giving birth, until all danger has passed.
d- One that has suffered something that could kill it, such as strangulation or a fall from a high place, until the danger has passed.
e- One that is unable to walk because of a defect.
f- One that has had one of its forelegs or hind legs cut off.
If these are added to the four defects mentioned in the text, the number of those that cannot be offered as sacrifices reaches ten – these six and the four mentioned above.
-4-
The animal should belong to the person whois offering the sacrifice, or he should have permission for that either on the grounds of sharee’ah or from the owner. The sacrifice isnot valid if the animal slaughtered does not belong to the person who is sacrificing it, such as one that has been taken by force, stolen, or taken on the basis of a false claim, etc, because it is not permissible to draw closer to Allaah by means of sin. A sacrifice offered by the guardian of an orphan from the orphan’s property is valid if that is customary and if hefeels sad about not offering a sacrifice.
A sacrifice offered by a guardian from the property of the person under his care is valid, if done with permission.
-5-
No one else should have any rights to the sacrificial animal; the sacrifice of an animal that is held in pledge is not valid.
-6-
It should be slaughtered at the time specifiedin sharee’ah, which is from after the Eid prayer on the Day of Sacrifice until sunset on the last of the days of al-Tashreeq, which is the 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah. So the days when the sacrificed may be offered are four:the day of Eid after the prayer, and the three days after that. Whoever slaughters it before the Eid prayer is over, or after sun sets on the 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah, his sacrifice is not valid, because of the hadeeth narrated by al-Bukhaari from al-Bara’ ibn ‘Aazib (may Allaah be pleased with him), according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever slaughters (his sacrifice) before the prayer, itis meat that he has brought to his family, butthat is not the sacrifice.” And he narrated that Jundub ibn Sufyaan al-Bajali (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) saying, ‘Whoever slaughters the sacrifice before he prays, let him replace it with another.’” And it was narrated that Nubayshah al-Hadhali (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘The days of al-Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.’” Narrated by Muslim.
But if he has an excuse for delaying it beyond the days of Tashreeq, such as if the animal ran away, without there being any negligence on his part, and he could not findit until after the time was over, or he appointed someone else to slaughter it and that person forgot until the time was over, then there is nothing wrong with slaughtering it after the appointed time. Thisis by analogy with the one who sleeps and misses a prayer, or forgets it – he shouldpray it as soon as he wakes up or rememberit.
It is permissible to slaughter the udhiyah at any time, night or day, but it is better to slaughter it during the day, and it is better toslaughter on the day of Eid after the two khutbahs. Each day is better than the day that follows it, because that means that one is hastening to do good.
Link : http://islamqa.info/en/ref/36755
And
Minimum Age of Animal for Sacrifice. ..
Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Do not sacrifice anything but an adult animal, unless it is difficult for you, in which case you may slaughter a six-month old lamb (jadh’ah). ” Narrated by Muslim.
A mature animal means one that is considered to be an adult.
In the case of camels it means one that is five years old.
For cattle, it means one that is two years old.
For sheep it means one that is a year old.
The jadh’ah is that which is half a year old. So it is not correct to sacrifice a camel, cow or goat that has not yet reached maturity, or a sheep that is less than six months old.
The Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah
Assalam Alaikum warahmatullahe wa barakatuh,
Bismillaher Rahmaner Rahim
There are tons of reasons why you wouldn’t want to pass up this opportunity. Do you know which one? The first ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah.
It’s that time of the year again, the last month of the lunar calendar for the year 1431 after the Hijrah of the Prophet Muḥammad, ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam. This is the time when more than two million people from all around the globe will be meeting together for at least five days in the plains of Makkah, Mina, ‘Arafah and Muzdalifah to perform their sacred journey to Makkah, known to us as al-Hajj, the pilgrimage. What bonds them together? One thing: al-Islam.
If you are already reading this, most likely you are not going to Hajj. And if you’re there already, then what on earth are you doing wasting your time online? Go to the Haram and enjoy your ṭawāf.
There are two chances in life: the one which you have already missed and the one which you don’t want to miss. What you already have is no longer a chance, its reality.
Therefore, for those of us who were unable to be there in Makkah, why should we value these special days of the year? Here are my top five reasons.
Allah subahanahu wa ta’ala valued these days so much that he swore by them in the Qur’an. And If Allah swore by something, then it is definitely profound and of the greatest value. Allah says:
والفجر وليال عشر
“by the dawn, and by ten nights” AlFajr 89:1-2
Ibn Kathīr rahimahullah, in his tafsir, referred to these ten days as the ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah. He also attributed this opinion to Ibn ʿAbbās, Ibn Az-Zubayr and others of the righteous predecessors.
The good deeds performed during these ten days are most rewarded, more than any other time of the year.
Ibn Abbas narrated the Messenger salla Allahu alayhi wa sallam said:
(مَا مِنْ أيَّامٍ العَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ فِيهِنَّ أحَبُّ إلى الله مِنْ هَذهِ الأيَّامِ العَشْرِ) ، فقالُوا يا رسولُ الله: ولا الجِهَادُ في سَبِيلِ الله؟ فقالَ رسولُ الله : ( ولا الجِهَادُ في سَبِيلِ الله، إلاّ رَجُلٌ خَرجَ بِنَفْسِهِ ومَالِهِ، فَلَمْ يَرْجِعْ من ذَلِكَ بِشَيْءٍ).
“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days. The companions asked: not even jihad in the cause of Allah? The Messenger of Allah replied: Not even jihad in the cause of Allah except for the one who went to fight taking himself and his wealth but did not return with either of them.” (Bukhari and Tirmidhi.)
The Blessings of the Days of ‘Arafah
These ten days host one special day in which there are so many blessings. It is the day of ‘Arafah, the ninth day of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah and the day preceding the ‘Id day. Some of the blessings of ‘Arafah are:
- Fasting that day expiates the sins of two years, the previous one and the coming year. (Muslim)
- It is a day in which Allah completed the revelation of the religion, perfected this bounty bestowed upon us and was satisfied with Islam as our religion. This was mentioned in Sūrat’l-Mā’idah 5:3. (Bukhari and Muslim)
- It is the day when Allah AlMighty descends, in a manner that suits His Majesty, to the closest heaven and shows his pride to the angels about the presence of the pilgrims. (Muslim)
- In this day Allah promises the pilgrims to bestow his mercy on them and forgive their sins so that when they return home they return free of sins just like the day when their mothers gave birth to them. (Bukhari and Muslim)
- It is a day when many people will be emancipated from the fire of Hell.
The season of the ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah is a festivity of worship. No other days of the year hold so many diverse acts of worship as done in such a short time, not even in Ramadan. And here is a list of some of what good deeds are done during these days in Makkah and elsewhere around the globe:
- Hajj and multiple Umrahs by millions of people.
- The sacrifice of the dunya and this world for the sake of attending the Hajj.
- The display of humility, humbleness and devotion in the actual rituals of Hajj.
- Tawaaf around the Ka’bah and Sai’ between the two hills of Safa and Marwa.
- Abundance of Dhikr, the praise of Allah especially takbeer and tahleel and what other pilgrims say the most, Talbiyah.
- Fasting for the non-pilgrims.
- Being extra charitable.
- Offering the hadi’y and udhiyah or qur’ban the sacrifice of livestock and feeding the poor.
- The inclination towards repentance.
- The engagement in long du’a or supplications as a sign of humility and humbleness.
- Maintaining the prayers in the sacred sites al-Haram in Makkah and the Masjid of the Prophet in Madinah.
- The recitation of the Qur’an.
The ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah also host the greatest day of the year, Yum-an-Nahr the day of the sacrifice, the 10th which is the actual day of ‘Id. The Messenger of Allah said:
(إنَّ أَعْظَمَ اْلأيَّامِ عِنْدَ الله تبارك وتعالى يَوْمُ النَّحْرِ ثُمَّ يَوْمُ الْقَرِّ)
“The best day with Allah is yum-an-Nahr, the day of sacrifice and then yum-al-qarr (the day that follows, when the pilgrims reside in the camps of Mina for worship).” (Ahmad, Abu Dawood and an-Nasa’iee).
So, now that you know the significance of this season, what do you need to do?
Some suggestions to make the Best of the Ten Days:
- Increase your level of worship during the day and during the night.
- Try to achieve one khatma of the Qur’an (reading it from cover to cover).
- Keep your tongue moist with dhikr and praise of Allah wherever you are.
- Maintain a state of ṭahārah and wuḍū’ at all times.
- Make most of your dhikr Takbīr (like the one you recite on ‘Id day).
- Fast a few days while the days are short and cold, particularly the 9th, the day of ‘Arafah.
- If you haven’t paid for the qurban (sacrificial animal) yet, make sure to do so. Perhaps you should donate one to those who are most in need of it in areas such as Pakistan and Gaza.
- Wake up before Fajr time and pray Qiyam-ul-Layl.
- Pray your Fardh salat on time.
- Make sure you don’t miss any of the Nafl and Sunnah prayers.
- Give charity and help those who are less fortunate prepare for the Eid day.
- Share the spirit of the season and be cheerful with all people.
There is so much you can do for the ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah, but you are the one who knows your schedule better than any one else. Make sure to make this season a priority and may Allah grant you all Jannatul Firdous.
Remember, there are two chances in life: the one you already missed, and the one you don’t want to miss. So don’t miss out on the ten days of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah.
By: Yaser Birjas
10 DAYS OF VIRTUE & RIGHTEOUSNESS (Dhull-Hijjah)
Assalam Alaikum warahmatullahe wa barakatuh,
Bismillaher Rahmaner Rahim
Praise be to Allaah Who has created Time and has made some times better than others, some months and days and nights better than others, when rewards are multiplied many times, as a mercy towards His slaves. This encourages them to do more righteous deeds and makes them more eager to worship Him, so that the Muslim renews his efforts to gain a greater share of reward, prepare himself for death and supply himself in readiness for the Day of Judgement.
This season of worship brings many benefits, such as the opportunity to correct one’s faults and make up for any shortcomings or anything that one might have missed.
Among the special seasons of worship are the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, which Allaah has preferred over all the other days of the year. Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days.” The people asked, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?” He said, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.”
(al-Bukhaari, 2/457).
You should know, my brother/sister in Islaam,
that the virtue of these ten days is based on many things:
-Allaah swears an oath by them, and swearing an oath by something is indicative of its importance and great benefit. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “By the dawn; by the ten nights” [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Ibn ‘Abbaas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujaahid and others of the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah. Ibn Katheer said: “This is the correct opinion.” (Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 8/413)
-These ten days include Yawm ‘Arafaah (the Day of ‘Arafaah), on which Allaah perfected His Religion. Fasting on this day will expiate for the sins of two years.
These days also include Yawm al-Nahar (the Day of Sacrifice), the greatest day of the entire year and the greatest day of Hajj, which combines acts of worship in a way unlike any other day.
-These ten days include the days of sacrifice and of Hajj.
TYPES OF WORSHIP
Concerning the types of worship to be performed during these ten days: one must understand that these days are a great blessing from Allaah to His slave, which is appreciated properly by the actively righteous. It is the Muslim’s duty to appreciate this blessing and make the most of the opportunity, by devoting these ten days to paying more attention to striving hard in worship. Among His blessings to His slaves, Allaah has given us many ways in which to do good and worship Him, so that the Muslim may be constantly active and consistent in his worship of his Lord.
Among the good deeds which the Muslim should strive to do during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah are:
FASTING
Hunaydah ibn Khaalid narrated upon the authority of his wife who said, “Some of the wives of the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam) told me that the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam) used to fast the Day of ‘Aashoorah, the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah, and three days out of every month13th, 14th, and 15th).” (Imam Ahmad, An-Nasaaee)
Commentary: Imam An-Nawwawee (rahimahullaah) said with reference to fasting the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah,
quote: “It is extremely preferable to do so.”
It is Sunnah to fast on the ninth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged us to do good deeds during this time, and fasting is one of the best of deeds. Allaah has chosen fasting for Himself, as is stated in the hadeeth qudsi:
“Allaah says: ‘All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting, which is for Me and I am the One Who will reward him for it.’”
( al-Bukhaari, 1805)
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast on the ninth of Dhu’l-Hijjah. Hunaydah ibn Khaalid reported from his wife that some of the wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
“The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast on the ninth of Dhu’l-Hijjah, on the day of ‘Aashooraa’, on three days of each month, and on the first two Mondays and Thursdays of each month.”
(Reported by al-Nisaa’i, 4/205 and by Abu Dawud; classified by al-Albaani as saheeh in Saheeh Abi Dawud, 2/462).
TAKBEER
It is Sunnah to say Takbeer (“Allaahu akbar”), Tahmeed (“Al-hamdu Lillaah”), Tahleel (“La ilaha ill-Allaah”) and Tasbeeh (“Subhaan Allaah”) during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, and to say it loudly in the mosque, the home, the street and every place where it is permitted to remember Allaah and mention His name out loud, as an act of worship and as a proclamation of the greatness of Allaah, may He be exalted.
Men should recite these phrases out loud, and women should recite them quietly.
The Takbeer may include the words:
Takbeer at this time is an aspect of the Sunnah that has been forgotten, especially during the early part of this period, so much so that one hardly ever hears Takbeer, except from a few people. This Takbeer should be pronounced loudly, in order to revive the Sunnah and as a reminder to the negligent.
There is sound evidence that Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with them) used to go out in the marketplace during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite Takbeer when they heard them.
REVIVING ASPECTS OF THE SUNNAH
that have been virtually forgotten is a deed that will bring an immense reward, as is indicated by the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “Whoever revives an aspect of my Sunnah that is forgotten after my death, he will have a reward equivalent to that of the people who follow him, without it detracting in the least from their reward.”
(Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 7/443; this is a hasan hadeeth because of corroborating asaaneed).
HAJJ & UMRAH
One of the best deeds that one can do during these ten days is to perform Hajj to the Sacred House of Allaah. The one whom Allaah helps to go on Hajj to His House and to perform all the rituals properly is included in the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “An accepted Hajj brings no less a reward than Paradise.”
Doing more good deeds in general, because good deeds are beloved by Allaah and will bring a great reward from Him. Whoever is not able to go to Hajj should occupy himself at this blessed time by worshipping Allaah, praying (salaat), reading Qur’an, remembering Allaah, making supplication (du’aa’), giving charity, honouring his parents, upholding the ties of kinship, enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil, and other good deeds and acts of worship.
SACRIFICE
One of the good deeds that will bring a person closer to Allaah
during these ten days is offering a sacrifice, by choosing a high-quality animal and fattening it, spending money for the sake of Allaah.
SINCERE REPENTANCE
One of the most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to Allaah and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin. Repentance means coming back to Allaah and foregoing all the deeds, open and secret, that He dislikes, out of regret for what has passed, giving it up immediately and being determined never to return to it, but to adhere firmly to the Truth by doing what Allaah loves.
If a Muslim commits a sin, he must hasten to repent at once, without delay, firstly because he does not know when he will die, and secondly because one evil deed leads to another.
Repentance at special times is very important because in most cases people’s thoughts turn towards worship at these times, and they are keen to do good, which leads to them recognizing their sins and feeling regret for the past.
Repentance is obligatory at all times, but when the Muslim combines sincere repentance with good deeds during the days of most virtue, this is a sign of success, in sha Allaah. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful.”
[The Noble Quran, Surrah, Al-Qasas 28:67]
Some MORE QUICK suggestions to make the Best of the Ten Days [by Shaikh Yaser Birjas]:
- Increase your level of worship during the day and during the night.
- Try to achieve one khatma of the Qur’an (reading it from cover to cover).
- Keep your tongue moist with dhikr and praise of Allah wherever you are.
- Maintain a state of ṭahārah and wuḍū’ at all times.
- Make most of your dhikr Takbīr (like the one you recite on ‘Id day).
- Fast a few days while the days are short and cold, particularly the 9th, the day of ‘Arafah.
- If you haven’t paid for the qurban (sacrificial animal) yet, make sure to do so. Perhaps you should donate one to those who are most in need of it in areas such as Pakistan and Gaza.
- Wake up before Fajr time and pray Qiyam-ul-Layl.
- Pray your Fard salat on time.
- Make sure you don’t miss any of the Nafl and Sunnah prayers.
- Give charity and help those who are less fortunate prepare for the Eid day.
- Share the spirit of the season and be cheerful with all people.
The Muslim should make sure that he does not miss any of these important occasion, because time is passing quickly. Let him prepare himself by doing good deeds which will bring him reward when he is most in need of it, for no matter how much reward he earns, he will find it is less than he needs; the time of departure is at hand, the journey is frightening, delusions are widespread, and the road is long, but Allaah is ever watchful, and to Him will we return and render account.As the Qur’aan says;“So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it,
And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it.”
[The Noble Quran, Surrah-al-Zalzalah 99:7-8]
There is much to be gained, so make the most of the opportunity afforded by these invaluable and irreplaceable ten days. Hasten to do good works, before death strikes, before one can regret one’s negligence and failure to act, before one is asked to return to a place where no prayers will be answered, before death intervenes between the hopeful one and the things he hopes for, before you are trapped with your deeds in the grave.
O you whose hard heart is as dark as the night, is it not time that your heart was filled with light and became soft? Expose yourself to the gentle breeze of your Lord’s mercy during these ten days, for Allaah will cause this breeze to touch whomever He wills, and whoever is touched by it will be happy on the Day of Judgement. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and all his Family and Companions.
Please don’t forget us in your prays, and Sallam alaikum warahmatullahe wa barakatuh. 6:19 AM, Wednesday Nov.02 2011, Kabul-AFG.
VIRTUES OF THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF DHUL HIJJAH
VIRTUES OF THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF DHUL HIJJAH
Superior Days For Righteous Deeds
Shaykh Abdullah Ibn Abdur-Rahman al-Jibreen
The Superiority And Virtue Of The First Ten Days Of The Month Of Zulhijjah
And The Deeds Legislated In These Days from the Gulf Times March 1999
Verily, the praise belongs to Allah, the Most High, and May the Blessings of Allah and Peace be upon His Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions, all of them.
It is narrated from Ibn Abbaas (RAA) that the Prophet (PBUH) of said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds done in them are more beloved to Allah than these days, ie the ten days (of Zul-Hijjah). They said: O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihaad in the path of Allah? He said: Not even Jihaad in the Path of Allah, the Most High, except if a man goes out (for Jihaad) with his self and his wealth,
then he doesn’t return with anything from that.”
(Al-Bukhari, Abu Daawood and others. The exact wording is that of Abu Daawood)
It is narrated from Ibn Umar that the Prophet Muhammad (Blessings of Allah and Peace be upon him) said:
“There aren’t any days greater, nor any days in which deeds done in them are more beloved to Allah, the Most High, than these ten days (of Zul-Hijjah).
So, increase in them the saying of Tahleel (La Ilaaha illa Allah), and Takbeer (Allah Akbar) and Tahmeed (al-Hamdu li-llah)” [Musnad Imaam Ahmad]
The Types of Good Deeds in These Ten Days:
First: The performance of Haj and Umrah, and these are the best of deeds that may be done.
And what indicates their superiority are a number of Ahaadith, one of which is the saying of the Prophet (PBUH).
Performance of Umrah is an expiration of the sins committed between it and the previous Umrah,
and the reward of the Haj which is accepted by Allah, the Most High, is nothing but Paradise.
(Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Second: Fasting during these days – as many of them as may be easy (for one to fast); Especially the Day of Arafah. There is no doubt that the act of fasting is one of the best deeds, and
it is from what Allah, the Most High, has chosen for himself, as in the Hadith Qudsee:
Fasting is for Me, and it is I who give reward for it. Verily, someone gives up his sexual passion, his food
and his drink for My sake…”
(Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Maalik, at-Tirmidhee, Nasaa’ee and Ibn Maajah)
Also, from Abu Sa’eed al-Khudree who said that the Messenger of Allah said: No servant (of Allah, the Most High) fasts one day in the Path of Allah, except that Allah, the Most High, removes his face from the Fire because of it (the distance of travelling) seventy years. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
From Abu Qatadah that the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said: Fasting the Day of Arafah will be credited with Allah by forgiving one’s sins of the previous year and the following year. (Muslim)
Third: At-Takbeer (Allah Akbar) and adh-Dhikr (the remembrance of Allah through different words of praise and glorification) in these (ten) days, Allah said “And mention the name of Allah
on the appointed days”(12:28).
This has been explained (by some) to mean the ten days (of Zul-Hijjah), and the scholars consider it desirable to increase adh-Dhikr in these days, based upon the hadith of Ibn Umar narrated by
Ahmad, which contains the words:
… so increase in these days the Tahleel and Takbeer and Tahmeed…
It is reported about Ibn Umar and Abu Hurairah that: the two of them used to go out to the market place during the ten days (of Zul-Hijjah) saying: Allahu Akbar, causing the people also to say it.
(Al-Bukhari)
Ishaaq narrates from the scholars of the Taabi’een that in these ten days they used to say:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Laa Ilaaha illa ‘llah Wa ‘llahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Wa li’llahi alhamd
It is a beloved act to raise the voice when saying the Takbeer in the markets, the houses, the streets, the Masjids and other places, because of the saying of Allah, the Most High, in Surah al-
Hajj, verse 37: “… that you may magnify Allah for His Guidance to you”
The saying of Takbeer in congregation, ie everyone pronouncing the Takbeer with one voice, is not permissible since this has not been transmitted (to us) from the early generations of the
Sahabah and those who followed their ways.
Verily, the Sunnah is for everyone to say the Takbeer individually. And this is (generally) applicable to Dhikr and supplications, except if the person doesn’t know what to say. In that case he may repeat after someone else until he learns (the words to be said).
It is also permissible to make Dhikr with all the different wording of Takbeer and Tahmeed and Tasbeeh, and the rest of the Islamic legislated supplications (from the Qur’an and Sunnah).
Fourth: At-Tawbah (repentance) and abstaining from disobedience and all types of sins,
since forgiveneand mercyare the results of deeds. Disobedience is the cause of being far away (from Allah, the Most High) and repulsion, while obedience is the cause of being near (to Allah,
Most High) and His love. In the hadith of Abu Hurairah he said that the Prophet said: Verily Allah has a sense of Ghaira, and Allah’s sense of ghaira is provoked when a person does that which Allah has prohibited. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Fifth: Doing plenty of voluntary (nafl) righteous deeds of worship like Prayer, Charity, Jihaad, reading the Qur’an, Commanding what is Good and Forbidding what is Evil, and other such deeds.
Verily, these are amongst the deeds that are multiplied in these days. It is during these days that even deeds that are less preferred, are superior and more beloved to Allah than superior deeds done at other times. (These deeds are superior) even to al-Jihaad – which is one of the most superior of all deeds – except in the case of one whose horse is killed and his blood is spilled (loss of life in Jihaad).
Sixth: It is legislated in these days to make at-Takbeer al-Mutlaq at all times of night and day until the time of the Eid Prayer. Also, at-Takbeer al-Muqayyad is legislated, and it is done after
the (five) obligatory prayers that are performed in congregation. This begins from Dawn (Fajr) on the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Zul-Hijjah) for those not performing Haj, and from Noon (Zhur) on
the Day of Sacrifice (10th of Zul-Hijjah) for those performing Haj (pilgrims); and it continues until Asr prayer on the last day of the days of Tash-reeq (13th of Zul-Hijjah).
Seventh: The slaughtering of a sacrificial animal (Adhiyah) is also legislated for the Day of Sacrifice (10th) and the Days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th and 13th). This is the Sunnah of our father
Ibraaheem – when Allah, the Most High, redeemed Ibraaheem’s son by the great sacrifice (of an animal in his place). It is authentically reported that The Prophet Muhammad slaughtered (sacrificed) two horned rams, black and white in colour, and said Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), and placed his foot on their sides (while slaughtering them). (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Eighth: Offering animal as Udhyia It has been narrated from Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said: If you see the Hilal (new moon) of Zul-Hijjah, and any one of you wants to make a sacrifice, then he should not cut (anything) from his hair and his nails. (Muslim and others). And in one narration, he said: .Then he should not cut (anything) from his hair, nor from his nails, until he performs the sacrifice.
Perhaps this is because of the similarity with the one who is bringing a sacrificial animal for slaughter (in Haj). As Allah, the Most High, said: And do not shave your heads until the Hady (sacrifice) reaches the place of sacrifice…
The apparent meaning of this prohibition is that it is particularly for the one whom the sacrifice is for, and does not include the wife or children, unless there is an individual sacrifice for one of them. There is no harm in washing the head, or scratching it, even if hairs may fall out.
Ninth: It is incumbent for the Muslim (who is not performing Haj) to make every effort to perform the Eid Prayer wherever it is performed, and to be present for the Khutbah and benefit.
He must know the wisdom behind the legislation of this Eid Celebration). It is a day of thankfulness and performing deeds of righteousness. So, he must not make it a day of wildness,
pride and vanity. He should not make it a season for disobedience and increase in the forbidden things like music and singing, uncontrolled amusement, intoxicants and the like – those things which could cause the cancellation of the good deeds done in these days (of Zul-Hijjah).
Tenth: After what has been mentioned, it is fitting that every Muslim, male and female, take advantage of these days by obeying Allah, the Most High, remembering Him, thanking Him, fulfilling all the obligatory duties, and staying far away from the prohibited things. He must take full advantage of this season, and the open display of Allah’s gifts, to attain the pleasure of his Lord.
Surely, Allah, the Most High, is the One Who grants success, and He is the Guide to the Straight Path. And may the blessings of Allah, the Most High, and peace be upon Muhammad and his family and companions!
Islamic Terms:
Ghaira: A sense of honour and prestige, and the anger caused by its being violated.
At-Takbeer al-Mutlaq: the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) which is unrestricted to specific times or any specific form.
At-Takbeer al-Muqayyad: The Takbeer which is done at a particular time and in a specific manner. Zull Hujjah (Arabic) : Dhul Hijjah (Eng.)
The Conditions for Udhiyah (Sacrifice)
There are six conditions for the udhiyah:
-1-
It should be one of the an’aam class of animals, which are: camels, cattle, sheep and goats, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the Name of Allaah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food”
[al-Hajj 22:34]
Baheemat al-an’aam (translated here as “beast of cattle”) includes camels, cattle and sheep. This is what is well known among theArabs, and this was the view of al-Hasan, Qataadah and others.
-2-
It should have reached the age stipulated in sharee’ah, which is six months for a sheep and the age at which the animal is considered to be an adult for any other animal, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Do not sacrifice anything but an adult animal, unless it is difficult for you, in which case youmay slaughter a six-month old lamb (jadh’ah).” Narrated by Muslim.
A mature animal means one that is considered to be an adult.
In the case of camels it means one that is fiveyears old.
For cattle, it means one that is two years old.
For sheep it means one that is a year old.
The jadh’ah is that which is half a year old. Soit is not correct to sacrifice a camel, cow or goat that has not yet reached maturity, or a sheep that is less than six months old.
-3-
It should be free of any faults that would render it unsuitable for sacrifice, of which there are four:
i – An obvious defect in one eye, such as when the eye is sunken in its socket, or when it sticks out like a button, or is white and obviously defective.
ii – Obvious sickness, whose symptoms are clearly apparent in the animal, such as fever that prevents it from grazing and causes lossof appetite; mange that obviously affects its flesh or its health; deep wounds that affect its health, and so on.
iii – Obvious lameness, which prevents the animal from walking normally.
iv – Emaciation that leaves no marrow in the bones, when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about what should be avoided in udhiyah, hegestured with his hand and said: “Four: alame animal which is obviously lame, a one-eyed animal whose defect is obvious, a sick animal whose sickness is obvious, and an emaciated animal that no one would choose.” Narrated by Maalik in al-Muwatta’ from the hadeeth of al-Bara’ ibn ‘Aazib. According to a hadeeth narrated from him inal-Sunan, he said: “The Messenger of Allaah(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stood up among us and said: ‘There are fourwhich are not permissible for sacrifice,’” andhe mentioned something similar. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1148.
These four faults render an animal unsuitable for sacrifice, and they include similar faults or more severe faults.
So the following animals are also unsuitable for sacrifice:
a- One that is blind in both eyes.
b- One that has eaten more than it can stand,until the danger has passed.
c- One that has encountered difficulty in giving birth, until all danger has passed.
d- One that has suffered something that could kill it, such as strangulation or a fall from a high place, until the danger has passed.
e- One that is unable to walk because of a defect.
f- One that has had one of its forelegs or hind legs cut off.
If these are added to the four defects mentioned in the text, the number of those that cannot be offered as sacrifices reaches ten – these six and the four mentioned above.
—
-4-
The animal should belong to the person whois offering the sacrifice, or he should have permission for that either on the grounds of sharee’ah or from the owner. The sacrifice isnot valid if the animal slaughtered does not belong to the person who is sacrificing it, such as one that has been taken by force, stolen, or taken on the basis of a false claim, etc, because it is not permissible to draw closer to Allaah by means of sin. A sacrifice offered by the guardian of an orphan from the orphan’s property is valid if that is customary and if hefeels sad about not offering a sacrifice.
A sacrifice offered by a guardian from the property of the person under his care is valid, if done with permission.
-5-
No one else should have any rights to the sacrificial animal; the sacrifice of an animal that is held in pledge is not valid.
-6-
It should be slaughtered at the time specifiedin sharee’ah, which is from after the Eid prayer on the Day of Sacrifice until sunset on the last of the days of al-Tashreeq, which is the 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah. So the days when the sacrificed may be offered are four:the day of Eid after the prayer, and the three days after that. Whoever slaughters it before the Eid prayer is over, or after sun sets on the 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah, his sacrifice is not valid, because of the hadeeth narrated by al-Bukhaari from al-Bara’ ibn ‘Aazib (may Allaah be pleased with him), according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever slaughters (his sacrifice) before the prayer, itis meat that he has brought to his family, butthat is not the sacrifice.” And he narrated that Jundub ibn Sufyaan al-Bajali (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) saying, ‘Whoever slaughters the sacrifice before he prays, let him replace it with another.’” And it was narrated that Nubayshah al-Hadhali (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘The days of al-Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.’” Narrated by Muslim.
But if he has an excuse for delaying it beyond the days of Tashreeq, such as if the animal ran away, without there being any negligence on his part, and he could not findit until after the time was over, or he appointed someone else to slaughter it and that person forgot until the time was over, then there is nothing wrong with slaughtering it after the appointed time. Thisis by analogy with the one who sleeps and misses a prayer, or forgets it – he shouldpray it as soon as he wakes up or rememberit.
It is permissible to slaughter the udhiyah at any time, night or day, but it is better to slaughter it during the day, and it is better toslaughter on the day of Eid after the two khutbahs. Each day is better than the day that follows it, because that means that one is hastening to do good.
Source: http://islamqa.info/en/ref/36755
