The Day of Arafah is one of the most significant days of the year.
It marks not only the spiritual summit of the Hajj pilgrimage but also represents the symbolic completeness of the Islamic faith.
What is the Day of Arafah?
The Day of Arafah falls on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
It is the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and takes place the day before Eid Al-Adha.
On this day, pilgrims gather on the plains and Mount Arafat, spending their time in dua, seeking forgiveness, and asking for Allah’s (swt) mercy.
For Muslims who are not on Hajj, the Day of Arafah is often observed through fasting, prayer, and heartfelt reflection.
Click here to find out how you can still honour the pilgrimage of Hajj when unable to physically go.
What Should You Do on the Day of Arafah?
The Day of Arafah is an opportunity to turn sincerely to Allah (swt), seeking His forgiveness and blessings. The Prophet Muhammad (saww) is reported to have said:“The greatest sin of a person who goes to Arafat and then leaves is to think that he has not been forgiven of his sins.” (Biharul Anwar, Volume 96, Page 248) One powerful supplication recited on this day is Dua Arafah, originally delivered by Imam Hussain (as), the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww). An excerpt reads:
“As You perfected for me all the graces and warded off all misfortunes, my ignorance of You and challenge have not stopped You from showing me that which takes me near to You, and from leading me to that which grants me proximity to You.
If You, O my God, chastise me, then it is because of my sins after Your claim against me; and if You pardon me, then it is on account of Your forbearance, magnanimity, and generosity. There is no god save You. All glory be to You. I have been of the wrongdoers. There is no god save You. All glory be to You. I have been of those seeking forgiveness. There is no god save You. All glory be to You.”
Why is the Day of Arafah So Important?
This day is deeply meaningful to Muslims around the world. It not only honors the sanctity of Hajj, but also commemorates the place, Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (saww) delivered his Farewell Sermon, a message that reflected the essence and completion of Islam. The Day of Arafah invites believers of all backgrounds and journeys to seek closeness to Allah (swt), to ask for His mercy, and to reflect on the blessings in their lives.
As the Day of Arafah comes just before Eid Al-Adha, it’s also a wonderful time to prepare your heart, your home, and your family for the upcoming celebration.
What can you do to participate if you cannot make it to Hajj?
By giving Qurbani to those who need it most through The Zahra Trust, you are helping not only spread the joy of Eid Al-Adha but aiding those who desperately need your support.
To learn more about how to give on this coming Day of Arafah, and to help remember the holy sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (as), click here – may Allah (swt) continue to bless you and your loved ones this Dhul Hijjah!
