Dhul-Qa'dah: Insights into the Islamic Month

What is Dhul-Qa'dah?

Dhul Qa’dah is the 11th month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. It is a time when fighting is forbidden. This is to allow Muslims to go on Hajj without being attacked or hurt. This Islamic month is one of the four sacred months in the Islamic Hijri calendar as ordered by Allah (SWT). The others are Muharram, Rajab and Dhul Hijjah.

“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them…” [Qu’ran, 9:36]

This sacred month is between Shawwal and Dhul Hijjah and the name is interpreted from the Arabic word “Qu’ood’ which means rest. Dhul Qa’dah means ‘the month of truce’ or ‘the month of sitting’ and is often used to prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage in Dhul Hijjah.

It is a special time for Muslims worldwide as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“The division of time has turned to its original form, which was current when Allah created the Heavens and the Earth. The year is of twelve months, out of which four months are sacred: Three are in succession Dhu’l Q’adah, Dhu’l-Hijjah, and Muharram, and (the fourth is) Rajab of (the tribe of) Mudar, which comes between Jumadi-ath-Thaniyah and Sha’ban.” [Sahih Bukhari: 3197].

When is Dhul Qa’dah 2026?

Dhul Qa’dah 2026 will start around 18 April and end on 17 May 2026. These dates can vary depending on the sighting of the moon. Many wonder what month is Dhul Qa’dah. This sacred month varies every year depending on the sighting of the moon. To identify exactly when this Islamic month will begin, it’s best to consult your local mosque.

Important Events That Took Place During Dhul Qa’dah

In 5 AH of Dhul Qa’dah, the Battle of the Trench took place. 3,000 Muslims dug a trench to protect themselves and the city of Madina, then known as Yathrib, from the 10,000 Makkans. The Muslims were seriously outnumbered in this battle. However, Salman Al-Farsi's proposal of digging a trench left them victorious, with Allah’s (SWT) will.

The following year, in 6 AH, the Treaty of Hudaibiya was signed during Dhul Qa’dah. Written by Ali (R) and signed by the Prophet (PBUH), it ensured a 10-year period of peace in which Muslims were able to visit Makkah to complete pilgrimages.

Also, in Dhul Qa’dah, the first Umrah was performed by the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions, making this month even more special.

Benefits of Dhul Qa’dah

Dhul Qa’dah can give Muslims many spiritual benefits as it’s a time when they can increase their good deeds. Doing this allows them to gain multiplied rewards from Allah (SWT). Believers are encouraged to be at peace with each other and grow closer to their faith and God through acts of worship. Acts such as seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and prayer are best to do within this time.

Another benefit of Dhul Qa’dah is it provides a safe space. Fighting ceases during this month, which can prevent wars and bring peace to communities. This can strengthen communities, especially those directly affected by these wars. Muslims are expected to be calm and peaceful with one another, holding no animosity toward anybody. Positivity spreads through communities and uplifts every member. With this positive environment, believers can rest and take time for themselves, their faith and their loved ones. This is essential as Dhul Qa’dah is the month prior to Hajj. It’s a time for Muslims to prepare spiritually and physically for the pilgrimage.

Good Deeds You Can Do in Dhul Qa’dah to Gain Reward

As good deeds are hugely significant in Dhul Qa’dah it is important to understand deeds that can be done in this month to gain multiplied reward.

• Don’t harm others: This sacred month encourages believers to be at peace with one another. Muslims should heal relationships and try not to be irritable, short-tempered or resentful.
• Take care of yourself: Don’t harm yourself and look after yourself to be prepared for Hajj. Improve your diet, exercise regularly and de-stress.
• Pray the Ishraq prayer after sunrise: The Prophet (PBUH) said ‘Whoever prays Fajr in congregation, then sits remembering Allah until the sun has risen, then he prays two rak’ah, then for him is the reward like that of a Hajj and Umrah’ [Tirmidhi].
• Read more Qu’ran: Reading the Qur’an is a great way to grow spiritually and connect closer to Allah (SWT) to earn rewards.
• Observe Sunnah fasts: Fasting in the month of Dhul Qa’dah increases a Muslim’s taqwa (consciousness of Allah. This is even more important to do in this sacred month as it multiplies rewards. It is Sunnah to fast on Mondays and Thursdays, and also on the three middle days of the lunar months.

Giving Charity During the Month of Dhul Qa’dah

It is recommended to give charity regularly. This act is rewarded and virtuous at any time of the year, not only in the sacred months. Therefore, it should be given throughout the year. The Prophet, upon him, be peace, said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)

You can donate to Muslim Aid this Dhul Qa’dah. During the month of Dhul Qa’dah, deeds are more highly rewarded. This means it is a good time to donate to Muslim Aid to help those in need.

The Prophet, upon him, be peace, said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)