The 8th of Dhul Hijjah is called the Day of Tarwiyah as it marks the official start of Hajj rituals. It is the day of devotion, preparation, and intention to start the sacred days of Hajj. It is called Tarwiyah, as the word Tarwiyah comes from the Arabic root related to quenching thirst. Historically, pilgrims would collect the water for the journey ahead, as Mina had limited water access.
The Prophet has highlighted the virtue of these days in the following hadith:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days…” (Bukhari)
The 8th of Dhul Hijjah is called the Day of Tarwiyah as it marks the official start of Hajj rituals. It is the day of devotion, preparation, and intention to start the sacred days of Hajj. It is called Tarwiyah, as the word Tarwiyah comes from the Arabic root related to quenching thirst. Historically, pilgrims would collect the water for the journey ahead, as Mina had limited water access.
The Prophet has highlighted the virtue of these days in the following hadith:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days…” (Bukhari)
For those performing Hajj, they are to perform the following acts of worship:
لَبَّيْكَ اَللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ – لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ – إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ – لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ – ❁
Labbayka Llāhumma labbayk, labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk, inna l-ḥamda wa n-ni’mata, laka wa l-mulk, lā sharīka lak.
At Your service, Allah, at Your service. At Your service, You have no partner, at Your service. Truly, all praise, favors, and sovereignty are Yours. You have no partner.
Those who are not at hajj can still gain many rewards through various good deeds. The Prophet called the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah the best of the days; hence, any deeds in the carries more weight. You may not be able to walk like the pilgrims towards Mina physically, but spiritually, you can join them by acts of worship. Some of the deeds are mentioned below:
Don’t be overwhelmed. You can keep it simple.
This day is all about readiness for the spiritual and mental well-being. It is not about movement. For pilgrims, it is about the preparation for the sacred worship, while for those who are not at hajj, this day is a special chance to earn multiplied rewards with pure inner intentions. This day is to reset the intentions, turn the connection with Allah, and prepare for the most important day, Arafah.
