Easy Formula for Rewards in Zul-Hijjah

~ Muslims First

If, due to a lack of time or household/business responsibilities, one is unable to dedicate much time to worship, even then by acting upon the following deeds, you can still attain the blessings of the 10 sacred days to a certain extent:

  • Be punctual in offering the 5 daily prayers in congregation (women should pray at home at the earliest time).
  • Make a special effort to avoid all types of sins —otherwise, despite the effort, the light and true benefit of worship will not be achieved. Especially guard your gaze and tongue.
  • From the sighting of the Zul-Hijjah crescent until the Qurbani (sacrifice), do not cut your hair or nails – this is a recommended (mustahab) act.
  • Recite Tasbih Fatimah (33 times Subhanallah, 33 times Alhumdulillah, and 34 times Allahu Akbar) after the obligatory prayers.
  • At the very least, fast on the Day of Arafah (9th of Zul-Hijjah). If possible, fast on more days during the first 10 – this is even better.
  • Recite the Takbirat frequently while walking or doing daily tasks: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil Hamd.
  • Frequently recite the third Kalimah: Subhanallah, wal hamdulillah, wa lailaha illallah, wallahu Akbar.
  • Send frequent salawat (blessings) upon the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) while walking or working.
  • Try to recite the Qur’an daily for at least 10 – 15 minutes in an orderly and consistent manner.
  • After Maghrib prayer (3 fard, 2 sunnah, 2 nafl), pray an additional 2 or 4 Nafl with the intention of Salatul Awwabeen.
  • After Isha (4 fard, 2 Sunnah), pray 2 – 4 rak‘ahs with the intention of Tahajjud before praying Witr. If you’re able to wake at night, pray additional rak‘ahs, but praying with Isha ensures you don’t miss out on Tahajjud completely.
  • Give charity and perform acts of kindness according to your means.
  • Before sleeping, recite Tasbih Fatimah, send salawat, seek forgiveness, and make heartfelt du‘a.
  • Most importantly, make a strong effort not to harm anyone – even slightly – through your words or actions. If you do, do not delay in seeking forgiveness.

Remember: Attaining the pleasure of Allah is impossible if you hurt His servants. May Allah grant us all the ability to act upon this guidance.

Advices of Mufti Taqi Usmani (Hafizahullah)

Published by Muslims First