The 1st of Dhul Hijjah heralds the arrival of a profoundly sacred time for Muslims worldwide.
This date marks the beginning of the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, a period filled with immense blessings, spiritual opportunities, and the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Understanding its significance and timing allows believers to fully embrace its virtues.
As we approach this special month, particularly looking towards Dhu al-Hijjah 2025, it’s essential to grasp its importance and prepare our hearts and minds.
When is Dhul Hijjah?
A common question is, “When is Dhul Hijjah?” Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is solar-based, the Islamic (or Hijri) calendar is lunar.
This means each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon. Consequently, the start date of Dhul Hijjah varies each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar, typically shifting 10 to 11 days earlier.
The determination of the 1st of Dhul Hijjah relies on the physical sighting of the hilal (crescent moon) after sunset on the 29th day of the preceding month, Dhu al-Qi’dah. If the moon is sighted, Dhul Hijjah begins the next day.
If not, Dhu al-Qi’dah completes 30 days, and Dhul Hijjah starts the day after.
For Dhu al-Hijjah 2025, astronomical calculations predict that the 1st of Dhul Hijjah is likely to fall on or around Wednesday, May 28, 2025. However, it is crucial to remember that this is an estimation.
The final confirmation will depend on the official announcement by Islamic authorities, most notably in Saudi Arabia, due to its role in hosting the Hajj.
Muslims globally often follow this announcement to maintain unity in observing these significant days.
Dhul Hijjah
To fully appreciate this month, let’s explore its identity.
- Dhul Hijjah month in English: The name “Dhul Hijjah” (sometimes written as Dhu al-Hijjah) translates to “Possessor of the Pilgrimage” or “The Month of Hajj.” This name directly points to its most prominent feature: the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah.
- Dhul-Hijjah in Arabic: In Arabic, it is written as ذُو ٱلْحِجَّة. This script visually represents the name known throughout the Muslim world.
- Dhul Hijjah pronunciation: While accents vary, a common pronunciation is approximately “Dhoo-al-HIJ-jah”. The ‘Dh’ is a soft ‘th’ sound, ‘Hij’ has a guttural ‘H’, and the ‘jah’ is like ‘ja’ in ‘jar’.
- Dhul Hijjah meaning in Urdu: In Urdu, it is often referred to as ذوالحجہ (Zul-Hijjah) or simply حج کا مہینہ (Haj ka Mahina), meaning “The Month of Hajj.” This reflects its significance within the Indian subcontinent and among Urdu speakers.
Dhul Hijjah is not just significant because of Hajj; it is also one of the four sacred months (Ashhur al-Hurum) in Islam, mentioned in the Quran.
These months are Dhu al-Qi’dah, Dhul Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. During these times, fighting is traditionally forbidden, and the sanctity of life and property is emphasized, encouraging a period of peace and devotion.
1st of Dhul Hijjah Benefits and the First Ten Days
The true spiritual climax for many, especially those not performing Hajj, lies within the first ten days of this month. The 1st of Dhul Hijjah signals the start of what many scholars consider the best days of the entire year.
The 1st of dhul hijjah benefits and those of the subsequent nine days are immense.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
The companions asked, “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah?” He replied, “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, except for a man who goes out with his life and wealth and does not return with either.” (Bukhari)
This powerful Hadith underscores the incredible value placed upon acts of worship during this time. Allah Almighty also swears an oath by these days in the Quran: “By the dawn; By the ten nights” (Quran 89:1-2).
Many commentators interpret these “ten nights” as the first ten nights (and days) of Dhul Hijjah.
Why are these days so special? They combine several major acts of worship in a way no other period does: prayer, fasting, charity, and Hajj.
It’s a concentrated period for seeking forgiveness, drawing closer to Allah, and multiplying rewards.
The 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah 2025
As the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah 2025 approach (expected from around May 28th to June 6th, 2025), Muslims should strive to maximize their spiritual efforts.
Here are some key acts of worship highly recommended during this period:
- Fasting (Sawm): It is highly recommended to fast during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah. Fasting, particularly on the 9th day – the Day of Arafah – carries immense rewards. The Prophet said about fasting on the Day of Arafah: “It expiates the sins of the preceding year and the coming year.” (Muslim). Even fasting a single day during this period holds great merit.
- Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Increase your remembrance of Allah through Takbir (Allahu Akbar – Allah is the Greatest), Tahmid (Alhamdulillah – All praise is due to Allah), Tahlil (La ilaha illallah – There is no god but Allah), and Tasbih (Subhanallah – Glory be to Allah). It is encouraged to recite these frequently, both individually and in congregations, especially the Takbir. You will often hear Muslims reciting “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Wa lillahil Hamd.”
- Quran Recitation: Dedicate more time to reading, understanding, and reflecting upon the Quran. The words of Allah offer guidance, comfort, and immense reward.
- Charity (Sadaqah): Giving charity is always a virtuous act, but its rewards are multiplied during these blessed days. Support those in need, contribute to mosques and Islamic causes, or simply perform acts of kindness.
- Repentance (Tawbah): These days offer a golden opportunity to turn back to Allah, seek forgiveness for past sins, and make a firm intention to improve. Sincere repentance can wipe away a lifetime of errors.
- Qurbani (Udhiyah): For those who can afford it, preparing for the sacrifice on Eid al-Adha (the 10th day) is a crucial part of these ten days. It involves making the intention and, ideally, refraining from cutting hair or nails from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah until the sacrifice is performed.
- General Good Deeds: Any act of kindness, helping others, maintaining family ties, seeking knowledge, and increasing prayers (both obligatory and voluntary) is highly rewarded.
Key Events within Dhul Hijjah
These ten days build up to two momentous events:
- The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah): Expected around Thursday, June 5, 2025. This is the most important day of Hajj. Pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafat, spending the day in intense prayer and supplication. It is a day of immense forgiveness and mercy. For non-pilgrims, fasting this day is a highly recommended act.
- Eid al-Adha (10th Dhul Hijjah): Expected around Friday, June 6, 2025. This is the Festival of Sacrifice. It begins with Eid prayers and continues with the Qurbani, feasting, and visiting family and friends. It celebrates Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and reminds us of the importance of sacrifice and sharing.
Making the Most of Dhul Hijjah 2025
To truly benefit from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah and the days that follow, consider these practical steps:
- Set Clear Intentions: Begin with a sincere intention to seek Allah’s pleasure and make the most of this time.
- Create a Plan: Don’t let these days slip by. Plan specific acts of worship you want to focus on each day. Set realistic goals.
- Minimize Distractions: Try to reduce time spent on worldly distractions like excessive social media or entertainment. Focus on spiritual activities.
- Involve Your Family: Encourage your family members to participate in acts of worship. Teach children about the significance of these days.
- Learn and Reflect: Read articles, listen to lectures, and reflect on the stories and lessons associated with Dhul Hijjah, Hajj, and Prophet Ibrahim.
- Maintain Consistency: Even small, consistent acts of worship are beloved by Allah. Strive for consistency throughout the ten days.
FAQs – Dhu al-Hijjah & Eid-ul-Adha 2025
Basic Information About Dhu al-Hijjah
1. What date is the 1st of Dhu al-Hijjah in 2025?
Based on astronomical calculations, 1 Dhu al-Hijjah 2025 will likely fall around Saturday, May 31, 2025. The exact date will be confirmed after moon sighting.
2. What are the first 10 days of Dhu al-Hijjah?
The first 10 days of Dhu al-Hijjah are among the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar. They are highly recommended for:
- Increased worship
- Fasting (especially the 9th day)
- Reciting Takbir, Tahmid, and Tahleel
These days are especially significant for those not performing Hajj.
3. Which days are haram (not allowed) to fast?
Fasting is not allowed on the following days:
- Eid-ul-Adha (10 Dhu al-Hijjah)
- Tashriq Days (11, 12, and 13 Dhu al-Hijjah)
Fasting is also discouraged (Makruh) on Fridays unless combined with another day.
Arafat Day & Eid-ul-Adha Dates
4. On which date of Dhu al-Hijjah is Eid-ul-Adha?
Eid-ul-Adha begins on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah. In 2025, this corresponds to approximately Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
5. Which day of Dhu al-Hijjah is Arafat Day?
Arafat Day falls on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, which in 2025 will be on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
This is the most important day of the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to seek forgiveness and pray.
6. Is Arafat Day the same as Eid Day?
No, Arafat Day is the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, while Eid-ul-Adha begins on the 10th. So they are two separate days.
Eid-ul-Adha Duration
7. How long is Eid-ul-Adha — 1 or 3 days?
Eid-ul-Adha celebrations last for four days, from the 10th to the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah. However, the main Eid prayer and festivities occur on the first day (10th).
In many countries, the three days after Eid (11th–13th) are known as the Days of Tashriq, during which fasting is prohibited.
8. Is Eid-ul-Fitr also celebrated for three days?
Eid-ul-Fitr officially lasts for one day only, but many Muslims celebrate for up to three days depending on cultural traditions and national holidays.
Hajj-Related Questions
9. What are the 7 main steps of Hajj?
The seven essential steps (main rituals) of Hajj are:
- Ihram: Entering a state of purity and wearing simple white garments.
- Tawaf: Circling the Kaaba seven times.
- Sa’i: Walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
- Wuquf in Arafat: Spending the afternoon of the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah in Arafat.
- Muzdalifah: Spending the night in Muzdalifah after Arafat.
- Ramy al-Jamarat: Stoning the devil pillars in Mina.
- Sacrifice (Qurbani) and Halq or Taqsir: Cutting or shaving hair to exit Ihram.
10. Is Eid-ul-Adha before or after Eid-ul-Fitr?
Eid-ul-Fitr comes first, marking the end of Ramadan.
Eid-ul-Adha follows later, at the conclusion of Hajj, usually about 2 months and 10 days after Eid-ul-Fitr.
Summary Table – Key Dates for Dhu al-Hijjah & Eid-ul-Adha 2025
| Event | Expected Date (2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 Dhu al-Hijjah | May 31 |
| First 10 Days | May 31 – June 9 |
| Arafat Day | June 17 |
| Eid-ul-Adha | June 18 |
| Days of Tashriq (no fasting) | June 19–21 |
May Allah accept your good deeds and grant you the opportunity to perform Hajj soon!
A Call to Embrace the Blessings
The 1st of Dhul Hijjah opens a gateway to unparalleled spiritual rewards. It is an invitation from Allah to draw closer to Him, seek His forgiveness, and elevate our spiritual standing.
These ten days are a gift, a brief but potent period where good deeds weigh heavier, and prayers are more readily answered.
As we anticipate Dhu al-Hijjah 2025, let us prepare ourselves to welcome these blessed days with enthusiasm, devotion, and a sincere desire to earn the pleasure of our Creator.
Let us not waste this precious opportunity to invest in our Hereafter.
The blessings of Dhul Hijjah are immense. Share this information with your friends and family so they too can prepare for and benefit from these sacred days!
What are your goals for the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah 2025? Share your thoughts and plans in the comments below to inspire others!