Why Is It So Special?
If you’ve ever wondered why millions of Muslims from all over the world gather in Makkah during a specific time of the year, you’re thinking about the month of Hajj Dhul-Hijjah.
It’s one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar, packed with immense blessings, historical significance, and spiritual opportunities for every Muslim.
But what exactly happens during this month? Why is it so important? How does it relate to the Muslim identity? And when will Eid-ul-Adha in 2025 be celebrated? Let’s take a deeper look at the answers.
What Is Dhul-Hijjah and When Does It Occur?
Dhul-Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
It literally means “The Month of the Pilgrimage,” because it is the time when the Hajj pilgrimage takes place in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
This month is unique because it contains:
- The first 10 days, which are among the most sacred days of the year
- The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijah), the peak of Hajj
- Eid-ul-Adha (10th Dhul-Hijjah), also known as the Festival of Sacrifice
What Is Hajj and Why Is It One of the Pillars of Islam?
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, an obligatory pilgrimage to Makkah for all Muslims who are physically and financially able, at least once in their lifetime.
Allah commands it in the Qur’an:
زَّلَ عَلَيْكَ ٱلْكِتَـٰبَ بِٱلْحَقِّ مُصَدِّقًۭا لِّمَا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ وَأَنزَلَ ٱلتَّوْرَىٰةَ وَٱلْإِنجِيلَ ٣
“And due to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way.”
— Surah Al-Imran (3:97)
It’s not just a journey across countries it’s a spiritual journey to cleanse the soul, seek forgiveness, and reconnect with Allah.
Millions of Muslims wear the same white garments (Ihram) and perform the same rituals to show unity, humility, and submission to the Creator.
What Are the Sacred First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah?
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the importance of these first 10 days:
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
— Bukhari
These 10 days include fasting, giving charity, making dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and offering sacrifice.
Many Muslims also fast on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah), a day so blessed that:
“It expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
— Muslim
What Happens During the Hajj Pilgrimage?
Hajj spans over five days, from the 8th to the 12th (sometimes 13th) of Dhul-Hijjah.
Some of the key rituals include:
- Tawaf: Circling the Kaaba seven times
- Sa’i: Walking between Safa and Marwah hills
- Standing at Arafah: The most important part of Hajj
- Muzdalifah and Mina: Spending the nights in sacred areas
- Stoning the devil (Jamarat): Symbolizing the rejection of evil
- Sacrifice (Qurbani): Honoring the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
Every step is symbolic, echoing the devotion of past Prophets, especially Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family.
What Is the Meaning Behind Eid-ul-Adha?
Eid-ul-Adha, which translates to “Festival of Sacrifice,” is celebrated on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, and it commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) when he was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) for the sake of Allah.
Allah rewarded him by replacing his son with a ram.
وَفَدَيْنَـٰهُ بِذِبْحٍ عَظِيمٍۢ
“Indeed, this was a clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”
— Surah As-Saffat (37:106-107)
Muslims all over the world offer Qurbani (sacrifice) of an animal, and distribute the meat among the poor, family, and friends.
When Will Eid-ul-Adha Be in 2025?
Eid-ul-Adha in 2025 is expected to be observed on the evening of Saturday, June 7, 2025, and will end on the evening of Wednesday, June 11, 2025, depending on moon sighting.
The exact date may vary based on location and the sighting of the new moon that marks the start of Dhul-Hijjah.
Why Is the Day of Arafah the Best Day of the Year?
The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah) is considered the most important day of Hajj. It’s the day when:
- Allah completed the religion of Islam
- Pilgrims stand in prayer from noon until sunset
- Duas (supplications) are most accepted
ٱلْيَوْمَ يَئِسَ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ مِن دِينِكُمْ فَلَا تَخْشَوْهُمْ وَٱخْشَوْنِ ۚ
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.”
— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
Even for non-pilgrims, fasting on this day carries massive reward.
“Hajj is Arafah.”
— Tirmidhi
What Is the Connection Between Hajj and Muslim Identity?
Hajj strengthens the universal Muslim identity in several ways:
- Unity in Diversity: Muslims of all colors, languages, and cultures perform the same rituals, in the same attire, for the same God.
- Equality Before Allah: No one is superior in race, class, or status only by piety.
- Spiritual Transformation: A Hajj accepted by Allah purifies a person’s soul and can reset their entire life.
“Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or transgression, he returns as free from sins as the day his mother bore him.”
— [Bukhari & Muslim]
This spiritual reboot strengthens what it means to be a true Muslim obedient to Allah, humble, just, and compassionate.
How Does the Hajj Ritual Connect with the Story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)?
Hajj is almost like a living reenactment of Prophet Ibrahim’s legacy. Every major ritual of Hajj has its roots in his life:
- The Kaaba was built by Ibrahim and Ismail (AS)
- The Sa’i reflects Hajar’s desperate search for water
- The sacrifice honors Ibrahim’s willingness to obey Allah
It’s an annual remembrance of faith, trust, and submission.
What Can Non-Pilgrims Do to Benefit from Dhul-Hijjah?
Even if you’re not going for Hajj, you can still gain immense rewards in Dhul-Hijjah. Here’s how:
- Fast especially on the Day of Arafah
- Pray extra voluntary prayers
- Give charity generously
- Make dhikr: say “SubhanAllah”, “Alhamdulillah”, “La ilaha illallah”, and “Allahu Akbar”
- Read the Quran
- Seek forgiveness and renew your relationship with Allah
What Makes the Month of Hajj a Time for Renewal?
This sacred month is a time for:
- Reflection on our purpose in life
- Reconnection with Allah and our spiritual duties
- Revival of Muslim values honesty, humility, compassion
It’s not just about rituals. It’s about building a lifestyle based on Tawheed (belief in One God) and Taqwa (God-consciousness).
How Can We Preserve the Spirit of Hajj Throughout the Year?
The lessons from Hajj are not meant to be left in Makkah. They must follow us home:
- Continue the habit of prayer, fasting, and charity
- Live humbly and detach from materialism
- Serve others, especially the less fortunate
- Strengthen the Ummah by fostering unity and brotherhood
True success lies not in the journey alone, but in how we let that journey change us.
Final Thoughts: What Should Every Muslim Know About the Month of Hajj?
The Month of Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some and a yearly spiritual recharge for all.
Whether you’re standing on the plains of Arafah or in your living room making dua, Dhul-Hijjah is a gift to be treasured.
Let’s not waste these blessed days. Reflect on the legacies of Ibrahim (AS), Hajar, Ismail (AS), and our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Use this time to grow closer to Allah, refresh your intentions, and commit to a life that reflects the true Muslim identity built on submission, sincerity, and service to humanity.
TL;DR – Quick Summary
- The Month of Hajj is Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th Islamic month
- Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, performed from 8th–13th Dhul-Hijjah
- Eid-ul-Adha 2025 will likely fall on June 7, 2025
- The first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the best of the year
- The Day of Arafah (9th) offers immense spiritual rewards
- Non-pilgrims can still gain rewards through fasting, prayer, and dhikr
- Hajj rituals echo the life of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family
- The Muslim identity is centered on unity, humility, and devotion
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