Hajj or the major pilgrimage is a part of the five pillars of Islam. Believers spend a lifetime preparing for this blissful journey. Hajj takes place during the Islamic calendar month of Zul-Hijjah.

The month of Zul-Hijjah is termed to be a pious and blissful one. In particular, the first 10 days carry special importance for those who believe. It is a period full of great rewards, blessings and utmost significance.

These days are not only termed important for pilgrims who intend on performing the Hajj. It is also of great value for other Muslims too. Fasting in the month of Hajj brings with it great rewards for those who embark upon this pious deed. And that’s exactly why we’re discussing this topic in detail below.

Belief in Islam regarding fasting during the first 10 days of Hajj

Islam places great emphasis on Fasting for Muslims during the first 10 days of Hajj. These days are termed important for both Hajj pilgrims and those who are not currently participating in Hajj. These sacred days are loved by ALLAH. Hence any pious deeds like fasting bring utmost rewards and blessings.

Each day that Muslim fasting during this period, Allah SWT will reward the believer as if they had fasted for one year. This is especially true for the 9^th day of Zul-Hijjah, where the rewards shall be doubled.

Fasting on the Day of Arafat

The ninth day of the Zul-Hijjah marks an important event in the history of Islam. This day is termed as the Day of Arafat. On this occasion, Hajj pilgrims stand on the plain of Arafat to pray. Others who are not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast.

Believers who observe fast on this day are termed to benefit from great rewards. This includes the resolution of sins for two whole years: one of the previous and one of the upcoming. The Holy Prophet PBUH is known to have never neglected the fast of Arafat because of its great significance.

Pilgrims performing Hajj are prohibited from fasting on the Day of Arafat. This is to prevent any undue hardship on these Hajj pilgrims.

Benefits of fasting in Zul Hijjah

While the entire month of Zul Hijjah cannot be underestimated, the first 10 days are given due significance. Fasting during the month of Hajj can result in great merits. ALLAH SWT has bestowed and declared an infinite amount of blessings and rewards for Muslims who fast during this period.

Fasting during the month of Hajj has been declared to be the noblest of all activities. It is a great act of devotion. Believers can benefit from gaining a tremendous opportunity. And this comprises of great forgiveness as well as immense repentance for all evil doing. Fasting on the day of Eid-ul-Azha is however forbidden.

Fasting on the days that coincide with the various activities of Hajj pilgrims shows spiritual solidarity. This includes emotional unity with the Hajj pilgrims too.

As can be seen from above, fasting during the month of Hajj brings with it a plethora of benefits. Muslims are encouraged to make the most out of Zul-Hijjah by observing fasts. This is so ALLAH SWT may be pleased by their efforts.

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