Make the most of Dhul Hijjah’s first ten days
“Allah always loves the good deeds, but He loves it more in these ten days of Dhul Hijjah.”
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a precious chance to draw near to Allah through worship, compassionate service, gentle relationships, and courageous outreach, following Ibrahim’s example and gathering the community for Eid.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah as a special season for good deeds after Ramadan.
- Lists worship and righteous acts, including dhikr, takbir, fasting, night prayer, charity, reconciliation, and kindness.
- Emphasizes benefiting others and sharing Islam through respectful relationships with neighbors.
- Uses Ibrahim’s gentle appeal to his father and Ismail’s obedience to teach family relationships, soft speech, and sacrifice.
- Urges fasting on Arafah, performing udhiyah when able, and attending a unified Eid prayer.
- Closes with prayers for the sick, bereaved families, Muslims in Gaza, and community announcements.
In the khateeb's words
“Allah always loves the good deeds, but He loves it more in these ten days of Dhul Hijjah.”
“Making somebody happy is the most beloved deed or action to Allah, especially in these beautiful days.”
“Once you use the beautiful and sweet words, Allah will open the people's hearts.”
“The most important thing is your relationship with your parents, with your brothers and sisters in the community. This is your job.”
For the dinner table
The khutbah reminds us that the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a special chance to return to Allah through prayer, fasting, charity, remembrance, and kindness. The imam especially emphasizes helping people, easing anxiety, feeding the hungry, and bringing happiness to others. From Ibrahim’s gentle words to his father and Ismail’s obedience, we learn to speak kindly and honor family while following Allah. We are encouraged to fast on Arafah if able, attend Eid prayer together, and share Islam with neighbors through good character. The khutbah also remembers people facing grief and oppression and asks Allah to bring them mercy and relief.
- When is it hard to use gentle words, and how could we try Ibrahim’s example?
- How can our family make Eid prayer and community life more welcoming for others?
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