The Day of Arafah holds a profound place in the Islamic calendar and is recognized as one of the most significant dates for Muslims worldwide. On this day, pilgrims performing Hajj stand together on the plain of Arafah, united in their prayers to ALLAH.
Falling on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, the Day of Arafah is filled with deep spiritual significance and countless blessings. It is a day that words can scarcely capture in terms of their importance and the benefits it offers to Muslims. Consequently, Muslims are encouraged to observe this day through fasting and remembrance of ALLAH.
In this article:
Completion of ALLAH’s Favors and the Perfection of Islam
A verse from Surah Al-Maa’idah in the Quran states:
“This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.”
It is narrated by Umar bin Al-Khattaab that this verse was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) while he was standing on the plain of Arafah, highlighting the day’s immense significance.
The Day of Arafah in Hadith
The significance of the Day of Arafah is also highlighted in numerous Hadiths. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized fasting on this day as a means to expiate sins of the previous and upcoming years. He also underscored the importance of exemplary behavior, stating:
“ALLAH will forgive those who, on the Day of Arafah, refrain from sins of the tongue, hearing, and sight.”
Supplication and Zikhr are particularly emphasized, with the Prophet stating:
“No other day is present on which ALLAH frees people from the Hellfire than on the Day of Arafah.”
The Day of Arafah is indeed a magnificent gift from ALLAH. Muslims worldwide should embrace fasting and other virtuous practices on this day to seek ALLAH’s forgiveness and elevate their spiritual status.
Importance of Fasting on the Day of Arafah
Fasting on the Day of Arafah offers a remarkable benefit. According to a narration by Sahih Muslim, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Fasting expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
This powerful promise underscores the spiritual purification associated with fasting on this day. (Note: The Hajjis who are on Hajj need fast on this day)
The best Dua to read on the day of Arafah
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said
The best du'a is the du'a of the day of the Arafah, and the best of what I have said the prophers before me is:
لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ ، وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ ، وهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
Laa ilaaha ill-allaahu, waḥdahu laa shareeka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-ḥamdu, wa huwa ‛alaa kulli shay’in qadeer.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the day’s importance through various sayings. Hazrat Aisha narrated that the Prophet said:
“No other day is present on which ALLAH frees more people from the fire than on the Day of Arafah.”
How Non-Hajj Muslims Can Benefit from the Day of Arafah
Islam’s teachings ensure no undue burden is placed on its followers. For those not performing Hajj, fasting is a key way to gain the day’s blessings.
Other recommended practices include:
Offering supplications for forgiveness and future guidance (reciting Astaghfar).
Continuously reading "Laa ilaaha ill-allaahu, waḥdahu laa shareeka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-ḥamdu, wa huwa ‛alaa kulli shay’in qadeer."
Behaving with respect and dignity.
Promoting brotherhood and unity.
Offering Nafl prayers.
Engaging in Zikhr (remembrance of ALLAH).
Giving charity in any form.
Sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Reciting the Quran with the intent to seek ALLAH’s guidance and benefit.
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