Ẕū al-Ḥijjah (ذو الحجة) in Islam
Definition
Ẕū al-Ḥijjah (ذو الحجة) is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar. The month is highly significant as it is designated for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, a central pillar of Islam. The term “Ẕū al-Ḥijjah” translates to “The Lord of the Pilgrimage,” underscoring its importance in the Islamic faith.
Etymology
The name “Ẕū al-Ḥijjah” is derived from Arabic:
- ذو (Ẕū): “lord” or “possessor.”
- الحجة (al-Ḥijjah): “the pilgrimage.”
Arabic Translation: ذو الحجة Turkish Translation: Zilhicce
Importance in Islamic Practices
Ẕū al-Ḥijjah holds immense religious significance for Muslims worldwide. The primary events and observances during this month include:
1. Hajj Pilgrimage
- The Hajj pilgrimage, which all capable Muslims are required to perform once in their lifetime, takes place during the 8th to the 12th days of Ẕū al-Ḥijjah.
- Pilgrims gather in Makkah (Mecca) to perform a series of rituals that commemorate the trials and sacrifices of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family.
2. Eid al-Adha
- Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is observed on the 10th day of Ẕū al-Ḥijjah.
- It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to Allah, and Allah’s mercy in providing a ram as a substitute.
- The festival involves special prayers, the giving of charity, and the ritual slaughter of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, or cow, whose meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy.
Key Observances
- Day of Arafah: The 9th day of Ẕū al-Ḥijjah is considered one of the most important days in Islam. Pilgrims gather on the Plain of Arafah to stand in prayer, seeking forgiveness and making supplications.
- Tashreeq Days: The 11th, 12th, and 13th days are known as the Days of Tashreeq, during which pilgrims perform the stoning of the Devil ritual.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- The Hajj: The Muslim Pilgrimage to Mecca and the Holy Places by F.E. Peters
- Approaching the Qur’an: The Early Revelations by Michael Sells
- Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction by Adam J. Silverstein
- The Five Pillars of Islam by Vâ-silov Husain and Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood
Takeaways and Conclusion
Ẕū al-Ḥijjah is a cornerstone of the Islamic calendar, marked by significant religious observances that fortify Islamic faith and community. Through rituals like Hajj and Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the globe unite in worship, reflection, and acts of charity, embodying the principles of sacrifice, devotion, and generosity.
The month of Ẕū al-Ḥijjah not only underscores the historical and spiritual heritage of Islam but also reinforces the sense of global Muslim unity and adherence to divine commandments. Its observances are a testament to the enduring legacy and deep-rooted traditions of the Islamic faith.
