We are just a matter of hours away from the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah, the most precious ten days of our Islamic calendar and yet so often overlooked. As mothers, we often focus on creating the spirit of Ramadan for our children, there is undoubtedly a “vibe” in the air and we are surrounded by ideas and inspiration to get the little one’s excited and engaged with the holy month. However the days of Dhul Hijjah are so sacred that Allah swears an oath on them.
“By the dawn; by the ten nights.” {89:1-2}
In fact, Dhul Hijjah holds so many important and beneficial reminders for both us and our children and whilst the story of Ibrahim (as) and his sacrifice can be difficult to explain to little ears, it is a powerful story that we should try to share in age appropriate ways. Hajj itself is one of the pillars of our faith, a great opportunity to reaffirm all five pillars but also reflect upon the diversity of our ummah. Watching scenes from Hajj on T.V is always so humbling when you can see the many different people who travel from all corners of the world to perform their pilgrimage.
Here are some excellent children’s books that capture the essence of Hajj for curious minds.
3. Two Pigeons on a Pilgrimage – a Hajj story
4. Migo and Ali – Love for the Prophets (for the story of Ibrahim AS)
You can also watch this beautiful video that tells the story of Ibrahim AS in a simple and engaging way. Watch here.
As there isn’t a big build up to Eid Al Adha and there can be somewhat of a disconnect with those not performing Hajj it can be nice to share some of the blessings and benefits of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah with your children. In particular, that this is a time when our good deeds are increased and we can always find ways big and small, to gain the pleasure of Allah swt.
The Prophet (SAW) said, ‘There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these (ten) days. {Abu Dawud}
Some of the sunnahs we can remind our children of during this time:
- Increase in Dhikr and glorification of Allah through Tahleel: La Illaha Illa Allah, Takbeer : Allahu Akbar Tahmeed : Alhamdulillah.
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaika Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal Hamda Wanna’mata Laka Wal Mulk. La Shareeka Lak.”“Here I am O Allah, here I am. There is no partner for You, here I am. Verily all praise is for You, and every bounty is from You, and all dominion is Yours. You have no partner.”
- Increase your fasting and especially on the day of Arafah. There is an excellent article ‘The Day of Arafah’ by Zainab Main that you can read with your children here.
- Read more Quran, great incentive to get the kids memorising more Surah’s.
- Giving to charity – there are lots of initiatives to look our for during Dhul Hijjah but also explore the many and varied ways that we can offer charity to those around us.
There are so many arts, crafts and learning activities to help our children with a hands on approach to understanding Dhul Hijjah, Hajj and Eid al Adha, we have collated a few below.
Hajj Kids Kit by Islamic Relief Canada
Dhul Hijjah activities by Mamateachesme
Lets go for Hajj Activity Playpack by Jeddah Mom
