Dahw Al-Ardh: (Spreading of the Earth): The Biginning of the Spiritual journey Significance, Supplications
and Recommended Acts.

What Is Dahw al-Ardh?
The term “Dahw al-Ardh” (الأرض دحو (literally means “the spreading of the earth.” According to Islamic traditions, it marks the day when Allah Almighty began shaping the earth from beneath the Holy Kaaba, making it habitable for mankind.

Creation of the Earth in Six Days Qur’anic Perspective The Holy Qur’an narrates the process of creation in Surah Fussilat (41:9–12):

> “Say, do you indeed disbelieve in He who created the earth in two days?..Then He turned to the heaven when it was smoke and formed them into seven heavens… And He placed firm mountains on the earth, blessed it, and measured its sustenance in four days.” Islamic exegeses, such as Tafsir al-Mizan by Allama Tabatabai and Tafsir al-Namoona by Allama Naser Makarem Shirazi, explain that this gradual process reflects divine wisdom—two days to form the earth and four to perfect its features—making a total of six divine days.

Islamic exegeses, such as Tafsir al-Mizan by Allama Tabatabai and Tafsir al-Namoona by Allama Naser Makarem Shirazi, explain that this gradual process reflects divine wisdom—two days to form the earth and four to perfect its features—making a total of six divine days.
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (A.S.) on the Creation of Earth
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (A.S.)said:> “When Allah intended to create the earth, He commanded the winds to strike the surface of the water. From the foam that formed, Allah created the mountains, and beneath the location of the Kaaba, He laid the surface of the earth.”
(Source: Kitab al-Kafi, Vol. 40, Pg. 190)

This aligns with the Quranic verse: > “Indeed, the first house established for mankind is that at Bakkah (Makkah) – blessed and a guidance for the worlds.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:96)

Why Is Makkah Called “Makkah”?
Imam Ali (A.S.) was once asked why the city is called Makkah. He replied:
> “Because the earth began to spread out from beneath Makkah.” Thus, Makkah is not just a geographical location but a sacred origin of earthly creation.

Testimonies from the Imams About Dahw al-Ardh
Imam Ali (A.S.) said: > “The first descent of divine mercy from the heavens to the earth occurred on the 25th of Dhul Qa’dah.” (Wasa’il al-Shi’a, Vol. 10, Pg. 451)

Imam Musa al-Kadhim (A.S.) added:
> “On the 25th of Dhul-Qa’dah, the Holy Kaaba was established, and it was the first mercy that descended upon the dry surface of the earth.” (Al-Kafi, Vol. 4, Pg. 149)

The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) on the 25th of Dhul-Qa’dah The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated:
> “Five days before the end of Dhu al-Qa’dah, Allah Almighty sent down His mercy upon the earth.”
(Wasa’il al-Shi’a, Vol. 10, Pg. 451)

A Day When Sustenance Is Opened Sayyid Ibn Tāwūs (R.A) narrates that during the month of Dhul-Qa’dah, especially on the 25th, prayers for relief and sustenance are accepted. It is considered a time when the gates of provision are opened for believers.

Recommended Acts on the Day of Dahw al-Ardh 1. Fasting – Great Rewards Await
Imam Ali al-Ridha (A.S.) said: > “Fasting on the day of Dahw al-Ardh is equal to fasting for one year.” (Uyoon Akhbar al-Ridha, Vol. 2)

Another narration from him states: > “Whoever fasts on this day, it is as if he has fasted for sixty months.”
(Majma’ al-Bahrain, Vol. 1, Pg. 134)

Note: Those who have missed fasts from Ramadan should observe this day with the intention of making up their missed fasts (Qada’)

2. Ghusl (Ritual Bath)
It is recommended to perform Ghusl with the intention of spiritual purification and divine nearness. Wudu is still required after Ghusl before offering prayers.
3. Special Two-Rakat Prayer In each rak’at: Recite Surah al-Fatiha once Recite Surah al-Shams five times
Afterward, recite the special dua found in Mafatih al-Jinan: > “Yā man arjūhu li kulli khayr…”

4. Charity (Sadaqah)
Giving in charity on this day attracts divine barakah and protects against future trials.

The Virtue of Visiting Imam Ali al-Ridha (A.S.) Ayatollah Sheikh Yusuf Saanei mentions:
> “One of the most virtuous acts on the 25th of Dhul-Qa’dah is the Ziyarat of Imam Ali ibn Musa al Ridha (A.S.).”

Scholars believe: On the 23rd of Dhul-Qa’dah, his Ziyarat is narrated. The 25th is both the Dahw al-Ardh and potentially the day of his martyrdom. Hence, visiting him or sending salutations is deeply spiritual on this day.

The View of Ayatollah Mirza Jawad Maliki Tabrizi In Al-Muraqibat, he writes:
> “Among all the days of Dhul-Qa’dah, the 25th is the most spiritually significant… It is a day where God grants
nearness, mercy, and acceptance of deeds.” Those who worship sincerely are spiritually elevated and their acts are rewarded abundantly.

Imam Khomeini (R.A.) on the Day of Dahw al-Ardh Imam Khomeini said:
> “Dahw al-Ardh is one of the Ayyamullah (Days of Allah). Muslims must understand and appreciate its
greatness… from the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to the Imams (A.S.), all emphasized its significance.”
He urged believers not to deprive themselves of its blessings and to benefit spiritually from this unique day
and night.

Conclusion The 25th of Dhul-Qa’dah, the Day of Dahw al-Ardh, is more than a historical moment—it’s a divine
opportunity. A day of immense spiritual elevation, abundant mercy, and unparalleled reward. Let us honor this day through fasting, prayers, reflection, charity, and Ziyarat. May this sacred day become a turning point in our journey toward Allah.