The season of reward is not limited to those standing at Arafah
As we approach the first ten days of Dhul Hijja, and ultimately proceed through these first ten blessed days, along comes with it the feeling of excitement and awe at its truly amazing and historical power.
For many, these days bring excitement—the preparation, the journey, the call of Hajj.
Acknowledge the Feeling
But that feeling is generally applicable to those who have arranged to attend to the hajj.
What about those who hoped, planned, and prayed to go—yet remain at home this year?
I myself was intending and hoping to attend the haj this year – but it did not work out for me as well. And I am left with the sadness of the result that I will not be at Arafah this year for the Day of Arafah – and I must become satisfied with that, as it is Allah’s plan and not mine.
It is a real struggle for so many annually – a quiet struggle that leaves a quiet longing and yearning in their hearts.
Plans did not unfold.
Intentions went out the window like butterflies fluttering freely.
Many have hoped and prayed to go this year. Many have been waiting – and working – for many years to go to the haj. And for so many, life simply did not allow it to happen – yet again this year.
This feeling – of wanting to be there yet prevented for some reason or another, no matter how valid and true – is not a small or unrecognizable feeling. It can’t be easily swept under the carpet.
Reframe
Allah’s plan is never without wisdom—even when we do not understand it.
Not being there for the haj this year does not mean you were not worthy of being there.
Sometimes, what is written for us is not the journey itself - but the patience, the longing, and the turning back to Allah from where we are.
Perhaps you or I planned and hoped to attend haj this year, but it didn’t happen. Maybe we know the reason why, and maybe we don’t. What we do need to come to terms with is the fact that Allah’s plan is what will prevail in any situation and at any given time. We plan. We hope. We pray. But it is Allah’s plan and will that prevails – and so it is for us to accept and move forward with that in our hearts and guiding our lives.
Allah knows better what is best for us, more so than which we think we know for ourselves.
You Are Still in the Season of Reward
The month of Dhul Hijjah, and the first ten days, and the essence of great reward associated with these ten days, is not limited to the haj or attendance at the haj during the haj season.
The power and immense rewards attainable during these ten days is accessible and attainable for anyone, at any time, and at any place, during these ten days.
The season of reward is relevant and applicable to the season itself, not your status as to whether or not you are actually in attendance to the haj rites and procedures.
This phrase: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days…” applies to all Muslims the world over, regardless if they are performing the haj this year, or they are at their homes or whever they may be.
The Day of Arafah is powerful and packed full of blessings for us all, not just those who are blessed to stand at Arafah on the Day of Arafah.
A gentle audio companion for these sacred days is also available for moments of quiet reflection and remembrance.
We can all perform acts of worship promising of great reward, whether we are performing the haj this year or not. In fact, the fasting of the Day of Arafah is ONLY advisable and even permissable for those who are NOT performing the haj. It is NOT for the pilgrim to fast on the Day of Arafah – as his/her presence at Arafah on the Day of Arafah is sufficient.
These days are not reserved only for those standing in Arafah.
They are open to every believer, wherever they are.
A Gentle Path Forward
You may not be walking the plains of Arafah - but you can still stand before Allah in your own space.
Take small steps – to create and result in great reward.
You can ensure that you pray your prayers on time, in congregation if you are a man, and then of course attach to those prayers the relative voluntary prayers.
You can implement the witr prayer at night, and the dhuha prayer mid-day before the dhur prayer.
You can take small steps to increase your Qur’an recitation by sitting after each prayer for a few moments to read 1-2 verses, or perhaps 1-2 pages.
You can purify your intentions for even the most mundane or simply daily acts, such as cleaning your home, washing the dishes or preparing the family meal, removing obstacles from the main path that people walk going to and fro places.
There are many ways to increase rewards and gain Allah’s pleasure – simply pick one to do it with sincerity, and even in repetition. And then grow and expand from there.
Taking it one small step at a time will reduce the friction, hesitation, and cure any sense of awe and overwhelm.
You may not be among the crowds in Makkah and at Mt. Arafah - but your du’a is no less heard.
Sometimes the greatest lessons of trust are found in the quiet footsteps of those who came before us. Read the reflection on Hajar and Tawakkul here. ➔
If you're unsure where to begin, follow a simple, gentle structure here. ➔
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