Dhu al-Hijjah
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Dhu al-Hijjah (Arabic: ذو الحجة) is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, a lunar calendar used by Muslims to reckon religious time. The name means "the month of pilgrimage," so called because the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca takes place during the days of this month.
Like other months of the Islamic calendar, Dhu al-Hijjah has either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the lunar crescent or astronomical calculation. Because the lunar year is roughly ten days shorter than the solar year, Dhu al-Hijjah advances earlier each year when compared to the Gregorian calendar.
The first ten days
The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah hold particular significance in Islamic worship. Many Muslims increase their fasting, prayer, and charitable giving during these days. The ninth day is the Day of Arafat, when pilgrims stand in the plain of Arafat near Mecca; those not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast on this day.
The Hajj
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is performed between the eighth and thirteenth days of Dhu al-Hijjah. The major rites include entering the state of ihram (ritual consecration), circumambulation of the Kaaba, standing at Arafat, spending nights at Muzdalifa and Mina, throwing stones at the pillars at Jamarat, and sacrificing animals. Every Muslim of sound body and financial means is obligated to perform the Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
Eid al-Adha
The tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah is Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice), one of the two major Islamic festivals. The day is marked by congregational prayer, after which families slaughter an animal—a goat, sheep, or camel—and distribute the meat to family, neighbors, and the poor. The three days following are known as the days of Tashriq, days of continued celebration and feasting.
The sacred months
Dhu al-Hijjah is one of four months designated as sacred (Dhu al-Qi'dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab). Traditionally, warfare was suspended during these months to allow pilgrims to travel safely, a practice that affected the politics and commerce of the early Middle East.