The arrival of Dhul Hijjah is not a mere marking of time. It is a profound call to the soul, an invitation to ascend towards Allah through devotion and service. In these sacred days, the gates of divine mercy are flung wide open, and every righteous deed weighs heavier on the scale of the Hereafter. The Qur’an draws our attention to these days with a divine oath, declaring, “By the dawn, and by the ten nights” (Qur’an, 89:1-2). Scholars and exegetes have long agreed that these ten nights refer to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah - days imbued with sanctity and laden with opportunity. 

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) underscored this reality, saying, “There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This elevates Dhul Hijjah above other times in the Islamic calendar, positioning it as a season where the believer can achieve immense spiritual advancement through worship and reflection. Fasting, particularly on the Day of Arafah, carries the reward of expiating the sins of the preceding and forthcoming years. The simple act of uttering takbir (Allahu Akbar), tahmid (Alhamdulillah), and tahlil (La ilaha illallah) becomes a pathway to divine favour. Even the recitation of the Qur’an, in these days, multiplies in reward.

Yet, the true power of Dhul Hijjah transcends personal devotion. It is also a time for communal responsibility, for da‘wah - inviting others to the path of Allah. The Prophet’s example in this regard is both humbling and inspiring. He used the Hajj season, when tribes gathered from every corner of Arabia, as a platform for calling people to tawheed and submission to Allah. As narrated by Rabi‘ah ibn Abbad, “I saw the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the market of Dhul-Majaz saying: ‘O people, say La ilaha illallah, you will be successful.’” Despite resistance and hardship, the Prophet continued this mission with unwavering resolve. At the Farewell Hajj, addressing the largest assembly of his life, he declared, “Convey from me, even if it is one verse. May Allah brighten the face of one who hears my words and conveys them.”

This moment captures the essence of da‘wah: it is not reserved for scholars alone, but is an obligation shared by every Muslim. The sanctity of Dhul Hijjah amplifies this duty. Pilgrims’ hearts are softened, and communities everywhere become more receptive to spiritual reminders. The opportunity to call others to goodness, whether through direct speech, supportive actions, or digital platforms, cannot be overlooked.

Moreover, Dhul Hijjah embodies the spirit of sacrifice, most vividly demonstrated in the rituals of Hajj and the symbolic act of udhiyah (sacrifice) on Eid al-Adha. This sacrifice represents not only Prophet Ibrahim’s submission but also the believer’s readiness to surrender personal desires for divine approval. Likewise, da‘wah demands a form of sacrifice - of time, effort, and comfort - to extend the message of Islam to others.

Da‘wah during Dhul Hijjah can be realised in multiple ways. Personal outreach is fundamental. Speaking to family, friends, and neighbours about the virtues of these days, encouraging them to increase acts of worship, and offering reminders about fasting, prayer, and charity are vital. Community engagement is equally significant. Mosques can organise study circles, lectures, and distribute educational materials in accessible languages. Social media offers an unmatched platform to spread beneficial content: authentic hadiths, Qur’anic verses, reflections, and reminders. These digital efforts can reach audiences far beyond our immediate circles.

However, da‘wah should not remain confined to words. The Arabic guidance you shared underscores the importance of action. Da‘wah through example - embodying patience, humility, and compassion - can have a profound impact. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that the believer can reach the rank of one who fasts and prays through good character alone.

The Hajj season itself magnifies the necessity of da‘wah. It is a convergence of diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds, a microcosm of the global ummah. This diversity offers an unparalleled opportunity to spread knowledge, correct misunderstandings, and exemplify the principles of Islam. Many pilgrims, despite their physical journey to the Ka‘bah, remain distant from a true understanding of their faith. Innovations and errors persist, highlighting the importance of balanced guidance that marries fiqh with spiritual and moral clarity.

For those unable to perform Hajj, Dhul Hijjah remains a time rich with opportunities to contribute. Supporting others financially or logistically to perform Hajj, providing educational resources, or engaging in acts of charity all count as forms of da‘wah.

Dhul Hijjah is also a time to reflect on the broader implications of da‘wah. Every action counts, whether it is handing out a leaflet, offering a kind word, supporting a da‘wah project, or simply praying for the success of others. The Prophet’s declaration, “Convey from me even if it is one verse,” shatters the misconception that da‘wah is beyond the reach of ordinary Muslims.

A smile, a gesture of kindness, an offer of help, or a simple word of encouragement can leave a lasting impression. We need to embody the highest standards of Islamic character, reflecting patience, integrity, and compassion, and to seize every opportunity to remind, guide, and inspire.

Ultimately, Dhul Hijjah is not simply a season of personal worship. It is a time when the individual’s connection with Allah intertwines with communal responsibilities. The Qur’an asserts: “And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah, and does righteousness, and says, ‘Indeed, I am of the Muslims’” (Qur’an, 41:33). These days, laden with opportunity, compel every believer to reflect, to act, and to invite others towards the path of Allah.

As we immerse ourselves in worship during Dhul Hijjah, let us not neglect the worship of Da‘wah. Whether through words or actions, in our homes or communities, on digital platforms or in the corridors of our mosques, each effort counts. These days are fleeting, and so is life. Let us be among those who, inspired by the Prophet’s enduring call, seize the opportunity to elevate ourselves and our communities.

May Allah enable us to honour the days of Dhul Hijjah with devotion and purpose. May He grant us the resolve to carry the torch of da‘wah, following the footsteps of the Prophet, and may He bless our efforts with acceptance and enduring reward.