As the Islamic calendar progresses, we find ourselves in the blessed month of Dhu al-Qadah (ذو القعدة). Often overshadowed by the more prominently known months like Ramadan and Dhu al-Hijjah, Dhu al-Qadah holds its own unique significance in the Islamic year. As one of the four sacred months in Islam, it is a time of peace, a period of preparation, and an opportunity for increased ibadah (worship).
The Sacred Months: A Time of Reverence
In the Quran, Allah (SWT) mentions the significance of four months:
Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve — in Allah’s Record since the day He created the heavens and the earth — of which four are sacred. That is the Right Way. So do not wrong one another during these months…
[Surah At-Tawbah 9:36]
These four sacred months are Dhu al-Qadah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. During these months, warfare is traditionally forbidden, and good deeds are particularly rewarded. It is a time to increase our focus on spirituality and avoid any form of wrongdoing.
Dhu al-Qadah: The Master of Truces
The name “Dhu al-Qadah” itself offers a clue to its significance. It literally means “the one of truce” or “the one of sitting” (referring to sitting from fighting). This name dates back to pre-Islamic times, where it was a custom to cease hostilities during this month, allowing for safe travel and trade. Islam upheld this tradition, emphasising the importance of peace and the sanctity of this period.
A Prelude to Hajj: Preparation and Intention
Dhu al-Qadah serves as a crucial precursor to the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which witnesses the annual pilgrimage of Hajj. For those intending to perform Hajj, Dhu al-Qadah is a time of earnest preparation. This includes:
- Making the intention: Renewing and strengthening the intention (niyyah) for Hajj.
- Gaining Knowledge: Learning about the rituals and procedures of Hajj, attending workshops, and reading relevant materials.
- Physical and Financial Preparation: Ensuring physical fitness for the rigorous journey and managing financial affairs to cover the expenses of the pilgrimage.
- Spiritual Readiness: Increasing acts of worship, seeking forgiveness, and purifying the heart for the spiritual journey ahead.
Even for those not performing Hajj, Dhu al-Qadah offers an opportunity to connect with the spirit of the pilgrimage. It’s a time to reflect on the significance of Hajj, the journey of a believer towards Allah (SWT), and the importance of sacrifice and submission.
Recommended Acts of Worship in Dhu al-Qadah
While all good deeds are rewarded, we can make the most of this sacred month by increasing the following acts of worship:
- Fasting: Although not obligatory, voluntary fasting on some days in Dhu al-Qadah is highly recommended, following the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Recitation of the Quran: Dedicate more time to reciting and reflecting upon the meaning of the Holy Quran.
- Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engage in frequent remembrance of Allah (SWT) through various forms of dhikr like Tasbih (Subhan Allah), Tahmid (Alhamdulillah), Takbir (Allahu Akbar), and Tahlil (La Ilaha Illallah).
- Du’a (Supplication): Make sincere and heartfelt supplications to Allah (SWT) for personal needs, forgiveness, and the well-being of the Ummah.
- Sadaqah (Charity): Increase acts of charity and help those in need. The rewards for charity are multiplied in the sacred months.
- Seeking Forgiveness: Sincerely repent for past sins and seek Allah’s (SWT) forgiveness.
- Maintaining Kinship Ties: Strengthen relationships with family and relatives.
Fostering Peace in Our Lives and Community
The spirit of Dhu al-Qadah, with its emphasis on peace and the cessation of conflict, should inspire us to cultivate peace in our own lives and within our community. This includes:
- Resolving Conflicts: Actively seeking to resolve any conflicts or misunderstandings with others in a peaceful and just manner.
- Promoting Harmony: Contributing to a harmonious environment within our families, neighbourhoods, and the wider community.
- Good Manners and Conduct: Striving to uphold the highest standards of Islamic ethics and manners in all our interactions.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Continuing to foster understanding and dialogue with the wider community, building bridges and dispelling misconceptions about Islam.
Seizing the Opportunity of Dhu al-Qadah
Dhu al-Qadah is a month of immense blessings and a valuable opportunity for spiritual growth. Let us utilise this sacred time to increase our acts of worship and strive to embody the principles of peace and harmony that this month represents. May Allah (SWT) enable us to make the most of Dhu al-Qadah and accept our good deeds. Ameen.