Doha: The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has affirmed the greatness of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, particularly its first ten days, which God swore by in the Holy Book to emphasise their virtue. The ministry noted that the crescent moon of Dhul-Hijjah is about to appear, and that these days hold great significance.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to God than these days" - meaning the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. When asked if this included jihad, he replied: "Not even jihad in the way of God, except for a man who goes out with his life and his wealth and does not return with anything from that."

Among the best deeds during these days are Hajj and fasting. The Prophet said: "Whoever performs Hajj and does not engage in obscene speech or commit sins will return as pure as the day his mother gave birth to him." Regarding fasting the first nine days, Hafsa (may God be pleased with her) narrated that the Prophet never omitted fasting the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, with fasting on the Day of Arafah being the most emphasised. The Prophet said: "I anticipate that God will expiate the sins of the preceding year and the year after it."

The ministry urged Muslims to increase their glorification of God, maintain obligatory and supererogatory prayers, give charity, recite the Qur'an, be kind to parents, and maintain kinship ties. It also emphasised the virtue of animal sacrifice on Eid Al-Adha as a confirmed Sunnah, noting that the sacrificial animal must be from camels, cattle, or sheep. The ministry called on all Muslims to seize this season of goodness, turn to God in sincere repentance, and increase their good deeds.

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