In the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijjah stands as a month of profound significance, marked by acts of worship and a spirit of sacrifice. 

It culminates in the observance of Eid al-Adha, where Muslims worldwide commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim  (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son, Isma’il (peace be upon him), as an act of obedience to Allah. 

This narrative of sacrifice, deeply ingrained in Islamic tradition, holds lessons that resonate across time and place, particularly in the context of contemporary struggles for justice and liberation, such as that of Palestine.

The Essence of Dhul Hijjah: A Time of Sacrifice and Devotion

Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, holds a special place due to the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, a journey millions undertake annually.

It is during this month that pilgrims engage in rites that emphasise humility, unity, and sacrifice, echoing the actions of Prophet Ibrahim and his family. Many such pilgrims are now returning from Hajj – cleansed of sin and “born anew” as the famous hadith states – an incredibly blessed journey that sees them start life fresh, as it were.

The willingness to sacrifice, exemplified by Ibrahim’s readiness to submit to God’s command, serves as a timeless example of devotion and trust in the divine.

The Legacy of Sacrifice in Islamic Tradition

Central to the significance of Dhul Hijjah is the story of Ibrahim and Isma’il, where Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah was so profound that he was prepared to sacrifice his beloved son.

This act, though ultimately replaced by a ram by divine intervention, underscores the importance of sincere intention and unwavering Imaan. This occasion is full of incredibly deep symbolism. Symbolism which makes us really think about its deeper meaning. Because sacrifice, in the context of Eid al-Adha, and in the context of life, goes well beyond physical acts. It goes to the unwavering faith, devotion, and readiness to give up what we hold dear for the sake of a higher purpose.  It involves understanding ourselves and the temporary nature of this world.

We commemorate this event annually during Eid al-Adha by performing the ritual sacrifice of an animal, distributing its meat to the less fortunate, thereby emphasising the principles of charity, compassion, and solidarity.

Applying the Spirit of Sacrifice to our Challenges Today

How is this sacrifice relevant to us? 

It invites us to think about letting go of our ego, our desires, and sometimes our most precious possessions.

And in the present moment, it asks us to consider: at a time when some in our Ummah are sacrificing so much, what are we prepared to sacrifice for Allah?  What are we doing for the Muslims of Palestine, where people who say “I believe” are being tested through acts of sacrifice we can barely imagine.

During Eid al-Adha, we emulate Prophet Ibrahim’s example. This act is not just an important ritual; it is a vivid reminder of our responsibilities to the collective community. Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son teaches us the timeless message of trust in the Divine Will. 

The spirit of sacrifice embodied in Dhul Hijjah holds a pertinent message for Muslims today, particularly in the context of Palestine’s struggle for liberation. Palestine, a land deeply intertwined with Islamic history and spirituality, has endured decades of conflict and occupation. The call for justice and freedom resonates strongly with the principles of sacrifice and steadfastness exemplified in the story of Ibrahim.

Drawing Parallels: Sacrifice in the Pursuit of Justice

Just as Ibrahim’s sacrifice was a testament to his commitment to Allah’s command, the contemporary struggle for Palestinian liberation requires similar dedication and sacrifice from believers worldwide. 

The sacrifices made by Palestinians daily, enduring hardships and striving for dignity and self-determination, echo the resilience of Ibrahim and his family in facing adversity.

To revive Dhul Hijjah’s spirit of sacrifice in the context of Palestine is to galvanise Muslims globally towards meaningful action. Beyond the rituals of Eid al-Adha lies a deeper call to embody the principles of sacrifice, justice, and solidarity throughout the year. This can manifest in various forms, from advocating for Palestinian rights on global platforms to supporting humanitarian efforts on the ground. 

Education and Empowerment: Key Components of Revival

Educating communities about the significance of Dhul Hijjah and its lessons of sacrifice is crucial in fostering a sense of solidarity with the Palestinian cause. 

Mosques, educational institutions, and community centres play a pivotal role in nurturing this understanding and channelling it into constructive activism and support. 

At MWA, we’ve attempted to do just that, consistently doing our part – to the best of our ability – in advocating for our brothers and sisters, and doing so without fear of favour. At the very least, this is what this moment requires of us. We can all be doing much more, but it starts with the will necessary to do so!

Other venerated acts in Dhul Hijjah and their Applications 

Zakat, obligatory charity, and Sadaqah, voluntary donations, represent tangible ways through which Muslims can support Palestinians in need. 

By contributing financially to humanitarian aid organisations or development projects in Palestine, individuals can directly impact lives and contribute to the broader effort for justice and freedom.

This is – rightly – one of the key features of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims go beyond their usual deeds in seeking Allah’s face and in seeking the extra rewards that are on offer during this blessed month. They increase in giving, fasting, and other forms of good deeds. 

These are the deeds we need to increase in if we are to expect Allah’s victory for the sake of Palestine, for He will only give it to an elevated people who have cleansed themselves from the avarices that surround us. He will give this victory to a people who are ready to sacrifice and living for the next life, even as they are pursuing justice in this one. 

A spirit of Sacrifice that we must embody

Dhul Hijjah’s spirit of sacrifice transcends ritualistic observance; it embodies a profound ethos of devotion, compassion, and resilience. By reviving this spirit within ourselves and our communities, we honour the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and align ourselves with causes that uphold justice and dignity, such as the struggle for Palestinian liberation. 

Let us reawaken the spirit of sacrifice this Dhul Hijjah, not only in our prayers and rituals but in our actions and advocacy for a world where justice and peace prevail.

In doing so, we heed the call of our deen and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing pursuit of justice and liberation for Palestine and beyond.