Dhu al-Hijjah

Dhu al-Hijjah () is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. It is one of the four sacred months (الأشهر الحرم) in Islam, during which warfare is traditionally prohibited. The name “Dhu al-Hijjah” means “Possessor of the Pilgrimage,” referring to the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Significance
Dhu al-Hijjah is one of the holiest months for Muslims, as it includes several major religious events:
Hajj (8th–12th of Dhu al-Hijjah) – Millions of Muslims travel to Mecca to perform the pilgrimage, fulfilling a religious obligation for those who are physically and financially able.

Day of Arafah (9th of Dhu al-Hijjah) – Pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat for prayers. For non-pilgrims, fasting on this day is highly recommended and believed to expiate sins of the past and coming year.

Eid al-Adha (10th–13th of Dhu al-Hijjah) – Also called the Festival of Sacrifice, it commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Muslims perform Qurbani (animal sacrifice), distributing meat to the poor.
Virtues and Practices
The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are considered especially blessed. Many Muslims increase their acts of worship, including fasting, prayer, and charity. It is recommended to recite the Takbir frequently, especially from the 9th to the 13th of the month. Voluntary fasting on the first nine days, particularly on the Day of Arafah, is highly encouraged.
Islamic and Gregorian Calendar Context
Dhu al-Hijjah is the last month of the Hijri (lunar) calendar, followed by Muharram, which marks the Islamic New Year. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, Dhu al-Hijjah shifts by about 10–12 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
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