Dhul-Hijjah is a sacred month for the Muslim Ummah, offering a unique season for worship, sacrifice, and seeking proximity to Allah. While Qurbani is considered Wajib for those who have the financial means, many Muslims find themselves unable to perform the sacrifice due to economic constraints. Islamic teachings emphasize that the mercy of Allah is vast and remains accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status.
No believer is excluded from spiritual rewards.
According to a Hadith narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-Aas (RA), the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) advised that one who cannot offer a sacrifice should refrain from cutting their nails, hair, or grooming their mustache from the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah until after the Eid prayer. This act is noted in Sunan Abu Dawood (2789) and Sunan an-Nasa`i (4365) as a practice that may earn one a reward similar to the sacrifice.
The Prophet (SAW) himself offered a sacrifice on behalf of his Ummah who could not afford one.
As reported by Jabir (RA), the Prophet (SAW) said while slaughtering his sacrifice, "In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest. This is on behalf of myself and those from my Ummah who cannot offer a sacrifice." (Sunan Abu Dawood 2810; Jami at-Tirmidhi 1521).
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are considered more valuable than any other time for righteous deeds. The Prophet (SAW) stated that there are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days. Believers are encouraged to increase their recitation of Tasbih, Tahmid, Tahlil, and Takbir during this period.
Fasting on the Day of Arafah carries immense merit.
The Prophet (SAW) indicated that fasting on this day acts as an expiation for the sins of the previous year and the coming year (Sahih Muslim 1162). Intentions hold paramount importance in Islam, and those who genuinely desire to perform Qurbani but lack the means may receive the reward for that intention. Allah emphasizes in the Quran (22:37) that neither the meat nor the blood of the sacrifice reaches Him, but it is the piety of the hearts that ascends to Him. Through sincere dhikr, fasting, and adherence to Sunnah, one can fully embrace the blessings of this holy month.
Source: Sunan Abu Dawood, Jami at-Tirmidhi, Sahih Muslim.
