As we enter the month of Dhul-Qa'dah, WNYMuslims would like to remind our community of its spiritual significance in the Islamic calendar. Dhul-Qa'dah is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur'an, during which fighting and bloodshed were traditionally forbidden to maintain peace and sanctity across the Muslim world. The other sacred months are Rajab, Dhul-Hijjah, and Muharram.

Dhul-Qa'dah, the eleventh month in the Hijri calendar, holds a unique position as a time of pause and preparation. It was historically a month of ceasefire to allow safe pilgrimage to Makkah. Today, it remains a time for reflection, spiritual rejuvenation, and preparation for the sacred rituals of Hajj, which begin in the following month, Dhul-Hijjah.

This month invites us to focus inward, to seek forgiveness, and to realign ourselves with justice, mercy, and devotion. It's an opportunity to plant the seeds of sincerity and good intention before we reach the blessed days of Hajj and Eid al-Adha.