The Day of Arafah

The second day of Hajj is the Day of Arafah. It is also the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah and considered one of the best days of the year in which to grow closer to Allah SWT and repent for your sins.

This day holds both religious and historical significance for Muslims.

The Holy Quran mentions the Day of Arafah in this beautiful way:

“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.” (Surah al Maa’idah 5:3)

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) held his farewell sermon on Mount Arafah and this sermon provides many lessons for Muslims that remain relevant and important to us as a global community.

What can we do to maximise on the blessings of this day? 

The Prophet (pbuh) said:

“There is no day on which Allah frees people from the Fire more so than on the day of ‘Arafah.” (Muslim)

There are many ways in which to worship and do good deeds that will bring you great spiritual reward.

1. Fast 

It is recommended that anyone not on the Hajj pilgrimage should fast on this day. Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous and coming year.

It also provides a great sense of community, similar to how Muslims feel when fasting together during Ramadan.

Pilgrims are forbidden from fasting so as to avoid putting undue hardship on them during the Hajj.

2. Sincere Prayer and Worship 

On such a special day, it is important to pray to Allah SWT and ask whatever your heart desires. You can also remember the mercy of Allah and do dhikr throughout the day.

Dua for Day of Arafah:

 لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَريكَ لَهُ، لَهُ المُلْكُ ولَهُ الحَمْدُ وهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَديرٌ.

laa ilaaha ill-allaahu, waḥdahu laa shareeka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-ḥamdu, wa huwa ‛alaa kulli shay’in qadeer

None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs all praise and sovereignty and He is over all things omnipotent.

3. Be Giving and Share with Others

Islam is a religion that places great emphasis on sharing and giving. On this day, you can give sadaqah, help relatives and friends and remember those struggling across the world in your prayers.

4. Seek Repentance 

Humans are flawed and this day is an opportunity for us to repent, seek the mercy of Allah SWT and make the intention to better ourselves. This day is a reminder that you can make up for things you have done wrong if you are sincere.

We hope you have a healthy and peaceful Day of Arafah, inshAllah and please remember our Palestinian brothers and sisters in your prayers!