Special days for Muslims include the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, the last ten days of Ramadan and Ashura, the tenth of Muharram. This guide explains why these occasions matter and highlights the acts of worship associated with them, including Quran reading, fasting, prayer and charity.
When are these special days in the Islamic year?
These occasions fall in Dhul Hijjah, Ramadan and Muharram. The table gives a quick comparison; our guide to the Islamic calendar provides a wider reference.
| Occasion | When it falls | Worship highlighted in this guide |
|---|---|---|
| First ten days of Dhul Hijjah | Beginning of Dhul Hijjah | Quran reading, fasting on Arafah, charity, remembrance of Allah and maintaining family ties |
| Last ten days of Ramadan | End of Ramadan | Seeking Laylatul Qadr, prayer, I’tikaf, charity and du'a |
| Ashura | Tenth of Muharram | Fasting |
For a broader look at celebrations and special occasions, read our guide to Muslim festivals.
Why are the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah special?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a time to focus on good deeds. The Prophet (PBUH) described their virtue:
There is no virtue more to the liking of Allah in any day than in these days, that is, the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah. They (the Companions) asked: Messenger of Allah, not even the struggle in the path of Allah (Jihad) ? He said: (Yes), not even the struggle in the path of Allah, except a man who goes out (in the path of Allah) with his life and property, and does not return with any of them.”
What acts of worship can you focus on?
Focus on Quran reading, charity, remembrance of Allah and maintaining family ties. The hadith below also highlights fasting on Arafah.
- Read the Quran. Make time for recitation.
- Fast on Arafah. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Fasting the day of `Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past one and the coming one.” [Muslim]
- Give sadaqah. Include charity among your good deeds.
- Remember Allah. Say subhan Allah, Alhamdulillah, la illah ill Allah.
- Maintain family ties. The Prophet (PBUH) said: ”He who is desirous that his means of sustenance should be expanded for him or his age may be lengthened, should join the tie of relationship.”
- Give Qurbani to feed the poor and share in Eid.
What makes the last ten days of Ramadan special?
The last ten days of Ramadan include Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree. It is the night on which the Quran was revealed to the Prophet (PBUH), and a focus for prayer and seeking Allah's forgiveness.
Allah says in the Quran: ”The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
How can you focus your worship during these days?
Seek Laylatul Qadr, increase prayer, give charity and make du'a. The Prophet (PBUH) said: ”Seek Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) in the odd nights out of the last ten nights of Ramadan.”
He also said: ”Whosoever performs Qiyam during Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree), with Faith and being hopeful of Allah’s reward, will have his former sins forgiven.”
During the last ten days, you can also perform I’tikaf in the mosque, focusing on worship and rebuilding your relationship with Allah. Make time for charity and du'a, and seek Allah's forgiveness.
For more on this period, read about the virtue of the last ten days of Ramadan.
What is Ashura, and why does it matter?
Ashura is the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Its name comes from the Arabic word “Ashrah,” meaning ten.
On this day, Allah parted the sea for Prophet Moses and his people, protecting them from Pharaoh. Fasting on Ashura is Sunnah.
How can families learn more about these occasions?
Use these occasions as a starting point for learning about worship and Islamic teachings. Murouj Academy offers one-to-one Islamic studies for kids; learners who want to work on Quran recitation can explore Tajweed classes.
Students and parents choose their teacher and can book a free trial class.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ashura part of Ramadan?
No. Ashura falls in Muharram, while Laylatul Qadr is sought during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
When should I seek Laylatul Qadr?
The hadith quoted above directs Muslims to seek Laylatul Qadr on the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
What does I’tikaf mean?
I’tikaf means seclusion. It involves staying in the mosque to focus on worship and your relationship with Allah.
