As a Muslim family, how do you celebrate Dhul Hijja?
Have you taught your children the essence and true significance of Dhul Hijja?
The month of Dhul Hijja is one of the sacred months in the Islamic calendar. The first ten days are the most blessed days of the year. This is when the rewards for good deeds are multiplied. By explaining this to our kids, we set the stage for them to understand why this month is so significant.
Here are other ways we explained the profound significance of Dhul Hijja in our children:
- Teach them through Stories
We always emphasise the impact of storytelling on our kids.
Children love stories, and we use this to our advantage. We narrate the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, highlighting their faith and obedience to Allah.
Sharing these stories with our children teaches them crucial lessons about faith, sacrifice, and devotion.
- Fasting
During Dhul Hijja we never forget to remind our children, especially the older ones to fast on the first nine days, especially on the Day of Arafah. We explain that fasting during these days is highly recommended and comes with great rewards.
We also make sure to explain that fasting during this time is a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
- Engage in Charity
Charity is an integral part of Islam, and Dhul Hijja is a perfect time to practice it.
We involve our kids in giving sadaqah (charity) and explain to them its importance and the rewards we can receive from Allah (SWT). We encourage them to donate their extra money, help a neighbor, or give food to the less fortunate.
These simple acts are not only rewarded by the Creator but also teach them empathy and the joy of helping others.
- Understanding Qurbani
Another highlight of the sacred month of Dhul Hijja is the practice of Qurbani.
Qurbani, or the sacrifice of an animal, is a key practice during Eid al-Adha. We explain to our children why we perform Qurbani and how it commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son for Allah. We take them to see the animals and let them understand the process, making the tradition more meaningful and less abstract.
- Performing Dhikr and Dua
During Dhul Hijja, we make it a point to pray together as a family and engage in extra dhikr (remembrance of Allah). We teach our children simple yet powerful phrases like “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” and “Allahu Akbar.” This not only strengthens their connection to Allah but also creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere at home.
Aside from that, we also encourage them to make their duas (supplications) to the Almighty during these blessed days. We explain that Allah (SWT) loves to hear our duas, especially during Dhul Hijja.
We do this by making a list of things we are grateful for and things we want to ask Allah (SWT) for. This also allows them to understand the power of dua.
- Preparing for the Eid al-Adha
We celebrate this joyous occasion with our children. We involve them in the Eid al-Adha preparations, from decorating the house to cooking delicious meals.
Teaching our children the virtues and significance of Dhul Hijja is a rewarding journey. By making these teachings part of our family traditions, we ensure that our children grow up with an understanding of their faith and the beauty of Islam.