Dhul Qadah: Meaning, Significance, & Historical Key Events

Dhul Qadah, the 11th month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, falls between Shawwal and Dhul al-Hijjah.

Dhul Qadah is one of the four sacred months among the twelve months in Islam, alongside Dhul al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. It is historically associated with peace and a pause from conflict. 

This sacred month signifies a break from warfare, encouraging reflection and preparation for the pilgrimage season that follows in Dhul-Hijjah. From significant events in Islamic history to its spiritual importance today, Dhul Qadah holds special significance. 

Let’s explore the meaning, importance, and key historical events of Dhul Qadah and the dates for this sacred month in 2025.

Dhul Qadah Meaning

Dhul Qadah's name comes from the word “Qu’ood,” which means “rest.” This month was named as such because, traditionally, the Arabs would refrain from fighting and traveling during this time.

Dhul Qadah, when translated from Arabic, means "master of truce," signifying it as the month of truce or the month of sitting. It is occasionally spelled as Dhul Qadah or Dhu al-Qadah, but the meaning remains unchanged.

When is Dhul Qadah 2025?

In 2025, Dhul Qadah is expected to begin on April 29th, depending on the moon's sighting, and will follow the month of Shawwal.

Dhul Qadah Significance

Dhul Qadah holds special significance in Islam for several reasons:

1. Dhul Qadah is a sacred month chosen by Allah

Dhul Qadah is honored as one of the sacred months by Allah’s decree. As Muslims, we recognize that Allah chooses what He wills from His creation.

Allah, through our beloved Prophet (PBUH), has designated Dhul Qadah as a sacred month, and so it is.

2. Prohibition of Warfare

3. Increased Severity of Sins

While sinning is prohibited at all times, it is considered even graver during sacred months like Dhul Qadah.

4. Respecting the Sanctity of Dhul Qadah

During these sacred months, we should strive to:

• Avoid sins, as sins carry greater weight in these months
• Increase our righteous deeds, as they are multiplied during this time
• Keep our tongues engaged in dhikr, particularly in glorifying Allah and seeking His forgiveness (Istighfar)
• Observe voluntary fasting
• Give Sadaqah or Sadaqah Jariyah
• Assist those around us and those in need
• Spend more time reading and reflecting on the Quran

Ibn Abbas noted that the phrase “so do not wrong yourselves during them…” applies to all months.

However, it particularly emphasizes the seriousness of sinning in the four sacred months, where good deeds also bring a greater reward.

Dhul Qadah Key Events

Here are the historical key events that occurred in the sacred month of Dhul Qadah:

1. Pilgrimages and Marriages of The Prophet's (PBUH) 

One of the greatest honors of Dhul Qadah is that Allah chose it for His Messenger (PBUH) to perform most of his Umrahs. This makes the month particularly special in Islamic history.

Of the four Umrahs performed by the Prophet (PBUH), three took place in Dhul Qadah. Even for the Umrah associated with Hajj, he entered the state of Ihram in Dhul Qadah.

According to the above hadith, the Prophet’s (PBUH) Umrahs in Dhul Qadah include:

• Umrah al-Hudaybiyah: attempted but incomplete due to the Quraysh’s intervention (6 AH)
• Umrah al-Qada': performed a year after Hudaybiyah (7 AH)
• Umrah during the Conquest of Makkah (8 AH)
• Umrah during the Farewell Hajj (10 AH)

Prominent figures like Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), and others such as Ata' believed that performing Umrah in Dhul Qadah is superior to performing it in Ramadan. They believed that Allah would only select the best for His Messenger (PBUH).

Additionally, the Prophet (PBUH) married Zainab bint Jahsh in Dhul Qadah (5 AH) and Maimunah bint al-Harith in Dhul Qadah (7 AH).

2. The Honored Prophet Musa (AS)

The Honored Prophet Musa (AS) was commanded to remain away from his people for 30 days. This was in preparation to receive the scriptures from Allah at Mount Tur. These 30 days fell in the month of Dhul Qadah.

He clarified that these 30 nights were in Dhul Qadah, and the ten additional days were the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. 

[Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

3. The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq)

The Battle of the Trench, also known as the Battle of Khandaq, is a significant event in Islamic history. It is also referred to as the Battle of Ahzab or the Battle of the Confederates. 

Scholars of Seerah differ on whether the battle took place in Shawwal 4 AH or Shawwal 5 AH. Imams such as al-Zuhri, al-Bukhari, Ibn Hazm, and al-Nawawi believe it occurred at the start of Shawwal in 4 AH. However, other scholars like Ibn Ishaq, at-Tabari, and Ibn al-Qayyim assert it took place in Shawwal 5 AH.

The Battle of the Trench was a 30-day siege of Madinah. It was fought between the Muslims and a coalition of the Quraysh and various Jewish tribes. It began in Shawwal and concluded in Dhul Qadah. The Muslim forces numbered around 3,000, while the Confederates, a coalition of 10,000, included 4,000 from the Quraysh. 

The unity of such diverse tribes was unprecedented in Arabian history. When the Confederates were decisively defeated, they were forced to retreat. This marked a turning point, establishing the Muslims as the emerging superpower of Arabia.

The Battle of the Trench teaches us valuable lessons:

Quality Over Quantity

The Muslims were outnumbered, just like in the Battle of Badr. Their victory was not about having more soldiers but about the strength of their faith.  The small Muslim army triumphed because they completely trusted Allah (tawakkul) and were steadfast in their faith. 

Their unwavering obedience to the Prophet (PBUH) also played a key role in their victory. They coupled their faith with action, remembering that they trusted in Allah. However, they also took necessary steps, like tying their camel, before relying on Allah.

Actions Over Words

Words alone are not enough—actions speak louder. Even Prophet Lut (AS) was initially a silent observer. However, he learned from his uncle Ibrahim (AS), who confronted a whole pagan society. True faith is tested through adherence to truth and action, not by being part of the majority.

Reflecting on the lives of Prophet Ibrahim, Lut, Musa, and the events of Badr teaches us that being in the minority is not a setback. Our focus should be on the quality of faith and actions, as Allah’s help is always with us.

The Story of Salman al-Farsi

Salman al-Farsi was unable to participate in the battles of Badr or Uhud because he was enslaved. He was freed when the Prophet (PBUH) built a sense of brotherhood within Madinah.

His Jewish owner demanded 300 date palms in exchange for Salman’s freedom. The Prophet (PBUH) saw this as an opportunity for the community to invest in a brother.

Rather than making a detached donation, the Prophet (PBUH) called on the people to help by physically planting the trees themselves. This collective effort showed how true charity involves more than just giving.

The Prophet (PBUH), personally planted trees at over 50 years old under the hot Arabian sun. He (PBUH) set an example of engaging in and dignifying the act of helping others.

What makes this even more significant is that the same year Salman was freed, he contributed his knowledge to the Battle of the Trench. He advised the Prophet (PBUH) on a Persian military strategy—a trench for protection. This highlights the importance of being open to new ideas and advice.

This teaches us that while innovation in worldly matters is beneficial, it should never encroach upon religious principles.

Shoura and Signs of a True Leader

The story of Salman al-Farsi shows the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) commitment to shoura (consultation) in decision-making. This was even though he received revelation directly from Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) showed great leadership by being open to feedback and ideas. 

For example, he considered the suggestion of digging a trench to protect Madinah. This demonstrated how great leaders value input and different perspectives. This approach helped protect the city during the Battle of Khandaq.

Effective leaders, like the Prophet (PBUH), focus on a few key principles:

1. Simplifying complexity
2. Prioritizing the most important goal
3. Knowing when to decline distractions
4. Making plans visible for transparency

The Prophet (PBUH)’s leadership was characterized by openness to suggestions and a willingness to lead by example. He not only accepted advice from his companions but also worked alongside them.

His actions fostered deep respect and loyalty among his followers. This proves that true leadership comes from leading from the front.

Signs of Prophethood

During the Battle of Khandaq, when the companions struggled with a large rock, the Prophet (PBUH) led from the front, displaying strength and resilience. When he struck the rock, it produced sparks.

With each strike, he proclaimed the victories of future conquests—Shaam, Persia, and Yemen—all of which happened as he had foretold. This miraculous event further affirmed his prophethood and leadership.

These conquests occurred in these regions during the caliphates of Abu Bakr and Umar ibn al-Khattab. The Prophet’s (PBUH) predictions of these victories were fulfilled, marking key milestones in the spread of Islam.

4. The Treaty of Hudaybiyah

In 6 AH, the Prophet (PBUH) and 1,500 Muslims set out to Makkah for Umrah, following a vision he had. When they reached Hudaybiyah, the Prophet's (PBUH) camel refused to move. He (PBUH) explained that it was Allah's will, just as He had stopped the elephant before.

This event highlighted the importance of defending others' honor. It also emphasized maintaining good thoughts about fellow Muslims, especially when differences arise. Criticizing without clear evidence can lead to slander.

After sending Uthman ibn Affan (may Allah be pleased with him) to negotiate with the Quraysh, they initially refused to let the Muslims perform Umrah. In response, the Muslims pledged their support to the Prophet (PBUH) if harm came to Uthman. This strong resolve led to the Quraysh agreeing to a peace treaty, despite their earlier opposition.

The terms of the treaty were as follows:

1. The Muslims would return without performing Umrah that year. However, they could come back the following year and stay in Makkah for no more than three days.
2. They would not bring arms, except for swords, which must be sheathed and carried in bags.
3. There would be a truce for 10 years. During this time, neither party would engage in hostilities, ensuring peace and security for both.
4. Anyone wishing to join or make a treaty with Muhammad (PBUH) or the Quraysh would be free to do so.
5. If a person from the Quraysh joined Muhammad (PBUH) without their guardian’s consent, he would be returned to the Quraysh. However, if a Muslim left to join the Quraysh, they would not be sent back.

How Did This Treaty Become a Victory for Muslims?

• By signing the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, the Quraysh acknowledged the Muslims as a political entity and started treating them as equals.
  
• The treaty allowed Muslims to spread Islam into previously unexplored regions, leading to a rapid increase in converts. Within two years, the number of Muslims had more than doubled; the Prophet (PBUH) initially set out for Hudaybiyyah with 1,400 men but returned with 10,000 men when he moved to liberate Makkah two years later.
  
• The Quraysh eventually requested the Prophet (PBUH)to remove the fifth point of the treaty because many people who had escaped Makkah were intercepting Qurayshi caravans, unable to seek refuge in Madinah.
  
• In 7 AH, three key figures of Makkah—Amr bin Al-‘Aas, Khalid bin al-Waleed, and Uthman bin Talhah—accepted Islam, prompting the Prophet (PBUH)to remark, “Quraysh has given us its blood.”
  
• Around 6-7 AH, the Prophet (PBUH) sent messages inviting kings beyond Arabia to embrace Islam.
  
• The victory at Khaibar soon followed, ending the Jewish threat and bringing substantial wealth to the Muslim community. Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) noted, “We never ate our fill until we had conquered Khaibar,” and Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said, “Now we can eat our fill of dates.”
  
• Hudaybiyyah became a key milestone, directly leading to the Conquest of Makkah.
  
• Following the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah in 630 A.D., Allah (SWT) made it obligatory for all Muslims to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime, as part of the fifth pillar of Islam.
  

In conclusion, Dhul Qadah holds a unique place in the Islamic month's calendar. It is a month of peace, reflection, and spiritual preparation. Its sacred nature, reinforced by significant historical events, reminds Muslims of the importance of unity, devotion, and tranquility. 

During this time, believers immerse themselves in worship. Dhul Qadah offers an opportunity to reconnect with faith, reflect on Islamic history, and prepare for the upcoming pilgrimage of Hajj. This month’s timeless message of harmony continues to inspire Muslims around the world each year.

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