The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the best ten days of the year. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days” (Bukhari). Why is Dhul Hijjah important? Dhul Hijjah is the 12th month in the Islamic calendar and the month in which Hajj takes place. It is considered a very important and holy month. 

How Can I Make the Most of Dhul Hijjah?

• Be mindful of your five daily prayers. Pray them on time and really be present in your prayer. What does it mean to be present? Listen to the words of the Quran as you recite them and understand what it is you’re saying. After your salat, don’t rush to get up but instead remain seated and continue to remember Allah (swt) through dhikr.
• Fast the first 9 days of Dhul Hijjah, if you can,  and especially the day of Arafah. The Day of Arafah comes on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah. The Prophet (saw) said, ’There is no day on which Allah (swt) frees people from the Fire more so than on the Day of ‘Arafah. Indeed, He draws near and then boasts of them to the angels then says, “What do these want?“’ (Muslim)
• Give charity. Do as much as you can to help others and be gracious. 

Take advantage of bettering yourself during these last 10 days. Focus on your relationship with Allah (swt) and do your best to practice dhikr and perform good deeds. "There are no days in this world during which worship is more beloved to Allah, Glorious is He, than the (first) ten days (of Dhul- Hijjah). Fasting one of these days is equivalent to fasting for one year, and one night of them is equal to Lailatul-Qadr” (Abu Hurairah). 

Written by Anan Helwih