15 June - The Day of Arafah

 

The Day of Arafah is an important event in the Islamic calendar, observed on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. It is considered one of the most significant days for Muslims, particularly for those performing the Hajj pilgrimage. Here are the key aspects of the Day of Arafah:

Significance:

1. Hajj Pilgrimage: The Day of Arafah is a pivotal part of the Hajj pilgrimage. Pilgrims gather on the Plain of Arafat, a vast open area near Mecca, from noon to sunset. Standing at Arafat (Wuquf) is regarded as the climax of Hajj.
2. Day of Forgiveness: It is a day of repentance and seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. It is believed that sins are forgiven on this day for those who sincerely repent.
3. Fasting: For Muslims not performing Hajj, it is highly recommended to fast on the Day of Arafah. Fasting on this day is believed to expiate the sins of the previous year and the coming year.

Rituals for Pilgrims:

1. Wuquf (Standing): Pilgrims stand in prayer and supplication at Arafat from noon until sunset. This act symbolizes the waiting for the Day of Judgment.
2. Prayers and Supplications: Pilgrims engage in continuous prayers, reading of the Qur'an, and personal supplications, asking for forgiveness and mercy.
3. Sermon: An important sermon (Khutbah) is delivered from the Namirah Mosque in Arafat, addressing the pilgrims.

Observance by Non-Pilgrims:

1. Fasting: Non-pilgrims fast from dawn to sunset, seeking the spiritual benefits and blessings associated with this day.
2. Prayers and Acts of Worship: Extra prayers, reading the Qur'an, making Duas (supplications), and engaging in other acts of worship are encouraged.
3. Charity and Good Deeds: Many Muslims increase their acts of charity and good deeds on this day, seeking to maximize their rewards.

Historical Background:

• Prophet Muhammad’s Farewell Sermon: The Day of Arafah is also remembered for the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) Farewell Sermon, delivered during his final Hajj in 632 CE. In this sermon, he emphasized equality, justice, and moral conduct.

Importance in Islamic Belief:

• Forgiveness and Mercy: It is widely believed that Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are abundantly granted on this day. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that there is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Hellfire than the Day of Arafah.
• Completion of Faith: The day also commemorates the completion of the religion of Islam, as it was on this day that the verse from the Qur'an (Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:3) was revealed, proclaiming the perfection of the religion and the completion of Allah’s favor upon Muslims.

The Day of Arafah stands as a profound day of reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide, marking a significant point in the Islamic year and the Hajj pilgrimage.