Understanding the Days of Tashreeq
The Days of Tashreeq are an important part of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. These three consecutive days occur on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, followingĀ Eid-ul-Adha. These days are significant for pilgrims and non-pilgrims, as they are an opportunity for sincere worship and celebrations.
It is forbidden (haram) to fast on these days, as they are designated for eating, drinking, and remembering Allah (SWT). This prohibition is based on several hadiths where the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) forbade fasting during these days.
Hazrat Nubaisha al-Hudhali (RA) reported Allah’s Messenger (SAW) as saying:
The days of Tashriq are the days of eating and drinking.
[Sahih Muslim 1141a]
In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) tells us to remember Him (SWT) during these days.
This verse explains that it is permissible to leave early during Hajj after the second day of Tashreeq because by then, you would have completed all the obligatory rituals of Hajj. However, staying until the third day is recommended to gain additional rewards. It is acceptable to leave early as long as you keep Allah (SWT) in your thoughts. This flexibility helps us balance our activities after Eid while staying connected to our faith.
Who can Fast During these Days?
It is only permissible for the pilgrims to fast these days if they cannot offer the sacrificial animal. Therefore, these pilgrims must fast for three days during the Hajj and seven when they arrive home.
Allah (SWT) said:Ā
“Whoever cannot afford that offering, let them fast for three days during the pilgrimage and seven after returning homeācompleting ten. These offerings are for those who do not live near the Sacred House. And be mindful of Allah Almighty, and know that Allah (SWT) is severe in punishment.”Ā [Surah Baqarah verse 196]
Why are they called the Days of Tashriq?
The name “Tashreeq” is derived from the Arabic rootĀ “sh-r-q,”Ā which meansĀ “to dry.”Ā It is believed that this term originated from the practice of drying meat during these days in pre-Islamic times.
Muslims performed the Qurbani ritual, which resulted in obtaining the meat. To preserve this meat, they would slice and dry it in the sunlight. This method of food preservation was traditional during the early years. The pilgrims could preserve their meat and take it on their long journey. So, these days are called the Days of Tashriq because of this tradition.
Qurbani during Hajj symbolizes obedience to Allah (SWT) and celebrates Hazrat Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice. For more information, visit the following blog post: Qurbani in Hajj: Obligations and Procedures of the Sacrifice.
Rituals and Practices for Pilgrims
The Days of Tashreeq are important for pilgrims who have performed Hajj. They follow various rituals deeply rooted in Islamic traditions.
Staying in Mina
During these days, pilgrims stay in Mina as a part of their religious practice. This tradition symbolizes the time when Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (AS). He stayed in Mina to fulfill Allah’s (SAW) command.
Stoning of the Pillars (Ramy al-Jamarat)
During the Days of Tashreeq, pilgrims perform the stoning of the Pillars ritual by throwing stones at three pillars, representing the rejection of the Devil and his temptations.
For more information about the stoning of the Pillars, check out this link:Ā Rami al-Jamarat: The Ritual of Stoning the Devil during Hajj.
Sacrifice (Qurbani)
During this period, sacrifice (Qurbani) is considered an essential practice. You must sacrifice an animal if you are performing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran. This act symbolizes the agreement to sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah (SWT) and to follow in the footsteps of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS).
Tawaf al-Ifadah
Tawaf al-Ifadah is a mandatory ritual during the Days of Tashreeq. It signifies the completion of Hajj and the pilgrim’s return to a pure and clean state.
Tawaf al-Ifadah and Tawaf al-Wada signify the spiritual completion of Hajj. For more information, visit this blog post:Ā Tawaf al-Ifadah and Tawaf al-Wada: Concluding the Hajj.
Takbir Tashreeq
Reciting the Takbir Tashreeq after theĀ Five Daily PrayersĀ is expected until the end of the Days of Tashreeq. This act reminds us of Allah’s (SWT) greatness and the pilgrim’s submission to His (SWT) will.
Reflection and Spiritual Purification
During the Days of Tashreeq, pilgrims engage in various acts of worship such as prayers,Ā Recitation of the Quran, Supplications, andĀ Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). This period provides an opportunity for pilgrims to reflect on their journey, seek forgiveness for their sins, and strengthen their spiritual connection with the divine. It is a time for spiritual purification and seeking closeness to Allah (SWT).
Spiritual Observances for Non-Pilgrims
During the Days of Tashreeq, those who are not performing the pilgrimage are urged to engage in various spiritual practices to connect with the essence of these holy days. Here are some recommended spiritual observances that you can participate in during this period.
Prayer
Spend extra time in prayer during the Days of Tashreeq. Offer additionalĀ Voluntary Prayers, sincerely supplicate, and reflect on your relationship with Allah (SWT). Seek guidance, forgiveness, and blessings through heartfelt prayers.
Charity
During the Days of Tashreeq, practicing charity is seen as an act of worship. Donating to the needy and people with low incomes is a way to share Allah’s (SWT) blessings, and it brings rewards.
Obligatory (Wajibah) and voluntary (Nafilah) charities like Sadaqa aim to purify wealth, help the needy, and bring blessings. For more information, check out the following blog posts:
- Islamic Charity: Sadaqah, Zakat, and More.
- Acts of Sadaqah Jariyah in Islam.
- Unbelievable Benefits of Sadaqah.
These practices are not only acts of devotion but also contribute to the well-being of the individual and the community, reflecting the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings on worship and social responsibility.
Takbeer Tashreeq
Takbeer Tashreek is a form of Islamic praise recited to glorify Allah (SWT). It is typically recited during the Days of Hajj and forms an integral part of the Muslim tradition. Both pilgrims and non-pilgrims recite this Takbeer.
Origin of Takbeer Tashreeq
Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) once had a dream in which he was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (RA). Ibrahim (AS) shared the dream with his son, who agreed to abide by the will of Allah (SWT). In submission to Allah’s (SWT) command, both father and son prepared for the sacrifice.
Hazrat Ismail (AS) was prostrated with his forehead touching the ground while his father laid a sharp knife on his neck. Allah (SWT) intercededĀ Just before Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) could begin moving the knife.
![[Surah As-Saffat 104-105]](https://islamicmentors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/saffat-ayat-104-105-1024x126.webp)
A ram was brought as a sacrifice instead of Hazrat Ismail (AS). He slaughtered the ram in the name of Allah (SWT).
The angels exclaimed “Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar.” Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) heard the voice of the angels and responded, “La Ilaha Illallahu Wallahu Akbar.” Hazrat Ismail (AS) overheard the conversation and understood that Allah (SWT) had released him from this difficult trial. As a result, He (AS) praised Allah (SWT) by saying, “Allahu Akbar Wa Lillahil Hamd.”
These kalimat are the Takbeer Tashreek. This story is a well-known event in Islamic tradition and is found in the Quran, specifically inĀ Surah As-Saffat (37:102-107)
When to Recite Takbeer Tashreeq
After every Fard (obligatory) prayer, from the Fajr prayer on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the Day of Arafah) until the Asr prayer on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah (the day after the final day of Eid), theĀ Takbeer Tashreeq recitation is performed.
Men are encouraged to recite it aloud wherever they may be, whether in the mosque, at home, or in the marketplace. On the other hand, women are advised to recite it quietly, as they are generally advised to lower their voices in accordance with Islamic principles.
Is Takbeer Tashreek Obligatory?
During the Hajj, observing the acts of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and his son Hazrat Ismail (AS) is an important ritual that was established by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and is considered Sunnah.
Although it is not obligatory (fard), some scholars, particularly within the Hanafi school of thought, consider it necessary (wajib) for those individuals for whom prayer is mandatory.
Conclusion
The Days of Tashreeq are significant for both pilgrims and non-pilgrims. They provide a time for reflection on Allah (SWT) and restore our faith. They remind us that Muslims all around the world are connected. Performing the unique rituals and reciting Takbeer Tashreeq helps us feel closer to Allah (SWT). It inspires us to become better individuals and unites us as a community. These days leave a heartfelt impression on our hearts and minds.
Are you preparing for the special journey of Hajj or Umrah? If yes, you should definitely check out our dedicated categories, Hajj and Umrah, designed specifically for these journeys. In these categories, you will find simple explanations of each step that can be helpful on this journey.
