The Two Festivals (Eids)

Sahih al-Bukhari 969

Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijja)." Then some companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Not even Jihad?" He replied, "Not even Jihad, except that of a man who does it by putting himself and his property in danger (for Allah's sake) and does not return with any of those things."

Commentary on the Excellence of the Ten Days

This hadith establishes the immense virtue of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, which Allah has favored over all other days of the year. The Prophet's statement indicates that righteous deeds performed during these days are more beloved to Allah than those performed at any other time, including the last ten nights of Ramadan, except for Laylat al-Qadr.

The companions' question about jihad demonstrates their understanding of jihad's high status in Islam. Yet the Prophet affirmed that even this great act of worship is surpassed by good deeds in these ten days, except for the jihad of one who goes forth with his life and wealth and returns with neither - meaning he attains martyrdom.

Legal Rulings and Practical Applications

Scholars conclude from this hadith that Muslims should increase in worship during these ten days through prayer, fasting, charity, Quran recitation, dhikr, and other righteous deeds. The exception for jihad teaches us that the reward for deeds is multiplied according to their time, place, and circumstances.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that the excellence of these days is due to combining all forms of worship within them: prayer, fasting, charity, and Hajj - which does not occur in any other period. This comprehensive nature makes them particularly blessed and worthy of increased devotion.