25th of Dhul-Qada Marks Dahw al-Ardh: Day Allah Showered Earth with Divine Mercy for First Time

The significant Day of Dahw al-Ardh (25th Dhu al-Qa’dah) is celebrated as the day Allah, the Almighty, “spread out” the Earth. Shia traditions narrate it as a blessed time for repentance and divine mercy. In one narration, Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) has emphasized its spiritual importance. According to prophetic quotes and narrations, the Divine Mercy was first sent to earth on this day, and Prophets Adam and Ibrahim, peace be upon them both, were also born on this day.

This day also marks the departure of the Holy Prophet from Madinah with thousands of pilgrims to Mecca for the purpose of Ḥajjat al-Wadāʿ, on which Sayyida Fatima al-Zahra and all the wives of the Holy Prophet accompanied his Holiness.

Certain rituals have been highly recommended on the night as well as this blessed day, most significantly Ghusl, Repentance, Fasting (Highly recommended for forgiveness of sins and increased sustenance), Special Prayers (Two-rakat prayers with Surah al-Hamd and al-Shams, followed by supplications for worldly and hereafter blessings), Sadaqa (Giving Charity to secure divine favor), and Ziyarah of Imam al-Reza (peace be upon him).