The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a time unlike any other in the Islamic calendar. A time when good deeds are beloved to Allah, when the legacy of Ibrahim (AS) is honoured, and when charity becomes a means of drawing closer to our Lord. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” 

Sahih al-Bukhari

These are the days to give, to act, and to seek Allah (SWT)’s mercy. Here’s why giving charity during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah can help bring you nearer to Allah (SWT) and benefit those most in need. 

You Give When Allah (SWT) Loves It Most 

Giving—Sadaqah, Zakat, or Qurban—during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah is an opportunity to multiply reward in a way unmatched at any other time. 

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e. the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah).”

He was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (ﷺ) replied, “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Help the Ummah in Their Hour of Need 

The suffering our brothers and sisters in Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, as Syrian refugees, and around the most devastated regions of the world face is immense. And our communities feel it wholeheartedly, especially those with a personal connection to our ummah in crises.

The Prophet ﷺ said: 

“The parable of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.”

Bukhari and Muslim

Donating charity to emergency aid and development projects for those most affected in our Ummah is more than just giving. You’re answering to their cries. To heal them. And give them hope. And Allah (SWT) rewards you for your intention and sincerity.  

Protect Yourself from Calamity 

The Prophet ﷺ said: 

“Charity extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire.” 

Sunan ibn Majah, Tirmidhi

Sadaqah given in these ten days becomes a shield—not just for those suffering, but for yourself and your loved ones. Give it as a means of barakah, protection, healing, and closeness to Allah (SWT). 

Be Among the Best of Believers 

Allah (SWT) describes those He loves: 

“They give food, out of love for Him, to the poor, the orphan, and the captive…” 

Surah | Al-Insan | 76:8

The Prophet ﷺ also said: 

“The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people…”

Al-Albani

When you give through a charity like Islamic Relief, you’re not only giving food or aid. You’re giving hope, dignity, and relief in places where people have almost nothing. 

Reap the Blessings of the Day of Arafah, the 9th day of the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah

The 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, the Day of Arafah (Arafat), is the pinnacle of these 10 days. It is a day of fasting, forgiveness, and duas answered. 

“There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah.”

Muslim

Arrive at Arafah with your charity already given. Let your actions lead your duas. Let your Sadaqah or Zakat be your appeal for mercy. 

Secure Reward That Continues in the Hereafter These First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah

Whether you donate to an orphan program, build a water well, or provide food to a family, your gift may become Sadaqah Jariyah, a charity that continues long after you’ve left this world. 

“When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).”

Muslim

These are the days to invest in the Hereafter. Every day of Dhul Hijjah is a door. A door to forgiveness. To reward. To nearness to Allah (SWT). Whether it’s Qurban, Zakat, Sadaqah, or an Eid gift for an orphan, give before these days pass you by.