The 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah is known as the Day of Arafah. On this day, Hajj pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to pray and supplicate to Allah.
Arafat is the peak of the hajj pilgrimage and a time of immense blessings and potential forgiveness for pilgrims and other Muslims worldwide.
Today, over 1.5 million hajj pilgrims, clad in two pieces of white clothing, from all over the world are gathered to stand on the plains of Arafat, a vast expanse of granite hills east of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to engage in intense prayer, supplication, and reflection.
Standing at Arafat by pilgrims, also known as “Wuquf,” has a significance that extends beyond the rituals of hajj; it marks several turning points in the history of Islam.
Men and women, regardless of age, race, tribe, and social status, come together and, in humility, offer prayers to their creator on this day.
The presence of a large crowd of Muslims wearing simple clothing on the vast plains of Arafat and begging Allah for mercy is a powerful image of humanity standing before their creator and a reminder of their dependence on His mercy.
DAY OF COMPLETION AND DIVINE FAVOUR
The very essence of the day of Arafat lies in its connection to the perfection of the Islamic religion. It was on this day that Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) made his farewell sermon during his final pilgrimage and bore witness that Allah (SWT) has perfected His religion, completed His favours upon him, and approved Islam as the complete and perfect religion for humanity.
“This day I have perfected for you your religion, completed My favour upon you, and approved for you Islam as religion (Quran 5:3).”
SEEKING MERCY, FORGIVENESS AND RENEWAL
The day of Arafat is believed to be when forgiveness is readily available for those who seek it sincerely from Allah. Muslims around the world, even those unable to perform hajj, dedicate themselves to prayer, fasting, and acts of charity on the day.
THINGS TO DO ON ARAFAT DAY
While the rituals of hajj are reserved for pilgrims, Muslims worldwide can participate in the spiritual significance of the day of Arafat.
Some ways to observe this day include:
observe fasting on the day of Arafat, for it is reported in the sayings of Prophet Muhammad that it expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.
Also, Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds and acts of worship, seeking the nearness and pleasure of Allah on this day.
The day of Arafat is a day of answered prayers, a time when Allah showers His mercy and forgiveness upon those who sincerely seek it. The Prophet enjoined Muslims to pour their hearts out in abundant duas, seeking forgiveness and praying for success in their mundane affairs as well as in religious standing.
Also, Muslims are expected to spend more time reciting the Quran and also give charity on the day while also offering more voluntary prayers.
It is also a moment to reflect on the farewell sermon of Prophet Muhammad and extend a helping hand to those in need, amplifying your blessings while supporting others.
