Dhul Qadah is the 11th month of the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. It is one of the four sacred months as ordained by Allah (SWT).

“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. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them…”

Qur’an, 9:36

It is during this month that the initiation of fighting (unnecessary violence) is prohibited. As it is also in the three remaining sacred months, Dhul Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab.

They ask you [Prophet] about fighting in the prohibited month. Say, “Fighting in that month is a great offence…”

Qur’an, 2:217

When is Dhul Qadah 2025?

In 2025, Dhul Qadah is expected to begin on 29th April 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon. It follows the month of Shawwal.

How many days in Dhul Qadah?

As with other Islamic months, there are either 29 or 30 days in Dhul Qudah. This also depends on the sighting of the moon’s crescent.

Importance of Dhul Qadah

While there are no days of worship that are prescribed for Muslims during the month of Dhul Qadah, Ibn Kathir mentions it is a month that has been selected by Allah (SWT) as one of His sacred months. In it, both the sins and good deeds of humanity are deemed to be of more significance.

“In all (twelve) months, Allah then chose four out of these months and made them sacred, emphasising their sanctity, making sinning in them greater, in addition to multiplying the rewards of righteous deeds during them.”

Tafseer Ibn Katheer

History of Dhul Qadah

Historically, since violence is prohibited by Allah during the month of Dhul Qadah, pilgrims have been able to Hajj safely without the worry of war.

The month also holds some notable events and dates are significant to Islam. This includes the signing of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah in 628 AD, signifying the day the Quraysh tribe recognised Islam. This allowed Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions to safely return to Mecca without fear of violence.

This ultimately led to the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions being able to complete the first Umrah to Makkah, after their migration to Madinah, which took place in 629 AD.

Tips for increasing your good deeds in Dhul Qadah

As this sacred month amplifies our sins as well as our good deeds, there are a number of acts you can do to increase your blessings during the month of Dhul Qadah.

Here are a things you can do:

1. Don’t hurt others: Fighting (to harm others) is prohibited during this holy month. It’s important not to take out your anger on or be resentful towards others this month.
2. Increase in voluntary acts of worship: Increase in your Sunnah and Nafl prayers, incorporate Tahajjud prayers, increase Dhikr or read more Qur’an. As good deeds are amplified during this month, we should reap the benefits and do as many voluntary acts of worship as we can.
3. Give Sadaqah: The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Charity extinguishes sinful deeds just as water extinguishes fire.” [Ibn Majah]. Give charity with Islamic Relief during this blessed month.
4. Seek forgiveness: As sins are heavier in this month, turn to Allah (SWT) in repentance and ask for forgiveness for the wrong you have done.

Embrace the Sacred Months

Dhul Qadah is an opportunity Allah (SWT) gifts us to reflect and renew our intentions. A chance to amplify our good deeds and be extra mindful of our actions.

It is a time to distance ourselves from wrongdoings, while drawing closer to Allah (SWT) through doing good. By honouring the sanctity of Dhul Qadah, we show our respect for Allah’s divine commands and prepare our hearts for the approaching season of Hajj and Dhul Hijjah.

Let us make the most of this sacred month. So that we may enter the months ahead with a heart purified and a spirit renewed.