The first ten days of Zil Hajj are sacred. They are among the best days in Islam. Fasting during these days brings immense reward. Many Muslims ask: which days should I fast?
Which Days to Fast in Zil Hajj?
Not every day of Zil Hajj requires fasting. But specific days carry special merit.
First 9 Days of Zil Hajj
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged fasting on these days. He said no deed is better than those done in these ten days. Fasting all nine days is highly recommended. But if you cannot, focus on the most important day.
Day of Arafah (9th Zil Hajj)
This is the most important fasting day. Fasting on the Day of Arafah forgives two years of sins.
- Past year’s sins are forgiven
- Coming year’s sins are forgiven
The Prophet (PBUH) said this clearly. Non-pilgrims should fast on this day. Pilgrims at Mount Arafat do not fast.
Day of Tarwiyah (8th Zil Hajj)
Fasting on the 8th of Zil Hajj is also beneficial. It prepares the heart for Arafah. Many scholars recommend it strongly.
When Are the Zil Hajj Fasting Days in 2026?
Islamic dates depend on moon sighting. However, expected dates for Zil Hajj 1446 AH (2025) are: Day Islamic Date Expected Gregorian Date
- 1st Zil Hajj: Expected Monday, 18 May 2026
- Hajj Begins: 25 May 2026
- Day of Arafah (9th Zil Hajj): Tuesday, 26 May 2026
- Eid al-Adha (10th Zil Hajj): Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Why Are These Days So Important?
Allah swears by these ten nights in the Quran. Surah Al-Fajr mentions “the ten nights.” Most scholars say this means Zil Hajj’s first ten days. Good deeds are multiplied greatly. Fasting is one of the best deeds.
What About Eid Day (10th Zil Hajj)?
Fasting on Eid al-Adha is forbidden. The 10th of Zil Hajj is a day of eating and celebration. Do not fast on this day. Other Recommended Acts in First 10 Days Fasting is powerful. But do more:
- Increase Dhikr (Tasbeeh, Tahleel, Tahmeed)
- Give charity daily
- Make sincere repentance (Tawbah)
- Recite Quran more than usual
- Make lots of dua, especially on Arafah day
The Prophet’s Teaching on These Days
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”mThe companions asked: not even jihad?
He replied: not even jihad — except a man who loses his life and wealth. That is how valuable these days are. That is Allah’s immense mercy. Plan ahead. Check moon sighting. Set your intention. Fast for Allah’s pleasure.
More Links!
Faith Beyond All Odds: Libyan Pilgrim’s Hajj Flight Returns Twice – A Divine Lesson This Zil Hajj
Hajj 2026 Update: Saudi Arabia Sets 15 as Minimum Age for Pilgrims
