How and When to Fast in Dhul Hijjah

What Did We Gain From the Most Blessed Days of the Year?

The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah 2025 have now come to an end—and with them, one of the greatest chances we had to reconnect with Allah.

Even though Ramadan is known as the main month of fasting, fast in Dhul Hijjah holds its own incredible rewards. These sacred days gave us a powerful opportunity to reset our hearts, increase our good deeds, and earn Allah’s mercy.

Whether you fasted one day or all nine, here’s a look back at how and when we fasted in Dhul Hijjah 2025 and what made it so meaningful.

Why Are These 10 Days So Special?

Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar, and its first 10 days hold massive spiritual weight. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days.” (Bukhari)

That includes fasting, prayer, charity, and dhikr—every good deed counts more during these 10 days than almost any other time in the year.

How We Fasted in Dhul Hijjah 2025

This year, many Muslims around the world made the intention to fast in Dhul Hijjah, especially during the first 10 days — and every day felt like a gift.

Some of us started strong by fasting from day one. Others focused on a few days they could manage. And many of us made sure not to miss the Day of Arafah, the most rewarding fast of the year. It didn’t matter how many days you fasted — what mattered was your effort and sincerity.

We didn’t need a complicated plan. Just setting the alarm for suhoor, making a quick du’a, and holding our fast with patience was enough to earn huge spiritual rewards. Fasting these days wasn’t just a Sunnah — it felt like a personal journey toward Allah.

Even if we couldn’t fast every day, we felt the blessings. These 10 days reminded us that worship isn’t always about quantity. It’s about showing up with your heart.

What’s So Powerful About the Day of Arafah?

If you’re going to fast in Dhul Hijjah, don’t miss the 9th day—the Day of Arafah. It’s the most powerful day to fast outside of Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Fasting on the Day of Arafah wipes away the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” (Muslim)

That’s two full years of sins—forgiven for one sincere fast.

This day isn’t just special for those performing Hajj. Even if you’re at home, fasting on Arafah connects you to the pilgrims standing on the plains of Arafat, pouring their hearts out in du’a.

When you fast on the Day of Arafah, you’re not just skipping food—you’re stepping into a day filled with mercy, forgiveness, and unimaginable reward. It’s a reset button for your soul—and the perfect way to wrap up the first 9 days of Dhul Hijjah.

Can’t Fast All 9 Days? Here’s What You Can Do

Not everyone can fast all 9 days of Dhul Hijjah—and that’s completely okay. Allah rewards you for your intention and effort, not just how much you do.

Here’s how you can still get the rewards:

Only have energy for one day? Then fast on the Day of Arafah (the 9th day). That one fast can wipe away two years of sins. It’s the most powerful day to fast in Dhul Hijjah.

Can manage a little more? Try fasting on Monday and Thursday. These are Sunnah days, and in Dhul Hijjah, the rewards are even bigger.

Feeling strong and ready? Go ahead and fast all 9 days. Add some extra good deeds—give charity, read the Quran, and make dua—and make every day count.

You don’t need to be perfect. Even one small fast in Dhul Hijjah, done with a sincere heart, brings a huge reward. Just do what you can—Allah sees your effort.

What Are the Benefits of Fasting in Dhul Hijjah?

When you fast in Dhul Hijjah, you gain more than just reward — you grow inside and out. Fasting brings you closer to Allah, purifies your intentions, and multiplies your good deeds. It also strengthens your mind by building patience and focus, and it supports your body by improving digestion, boosting energy, and reducing inflammation. It’s not just an act of worship—it’s a full reset for your heart, mind, and body.

Beautiful Hadiths on Fasting in Dhul Hijjah

“Every deed of the son of Adam is for himself except fasting. It is for Me, and I shall reward it.” (Bukhari)

“Fasting each of the ten days is like fasting an entire year, and praying during one of its nights equals the reward of Laylatul Qadr.” (Tirmidhi)

“No day sees more people freed from Hellfire than the Day of Arafah.” (Muslim)

These words aren’t just history—they’re your invitation to a life-changing ten days.

Make Your Fast Even More Rewarding

Fasting in Dhul Hijjah is powerful on its own—but you can make it even more special with a few extra good deeds. Give Qurbani to follow the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Share a little charity every day, even if it’s just loose chand Say “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” and “Allahu Akbar” throughout your day. Try reading a few lines of the Quran. And when you’re about to break your fast, take a quiet moment to make du’a—that time is full of blessings. These small, sincere acts add so much value to your fast and bring your heart closer to Allah.

Conclusion

If these days moved your heart, let that feeling continue—through charity. By donating to Children’s Aid, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving hope, relief, and dignity to real people who need it. Right now, families in Gaza are struggling to survive. Orphans, mothers, and elders need urgent help—food, medicine, and shelter. Your donation can ease their burden and bring light to their lives.

Give for the sake of Allah. Give for Gaza. Give for the ones who have nothing.
Let your good deeds live on—through every meal, every blanket, and every smile your donation brings.

Support now. Donate with heart. Help us bring ease to those in need.