Arafat is the day on which Allah forgives the sins of millions of Muslims worldwide. People fast on this day and seek blessings and forgiveness from Allah, the almighty. Further, people also recite dua’s and supplications on this day and prepare for the Eid al-Adha. In Islam, the day is known for showing gratitude, so on this day, Muslims praise Allah for His gifts and this life. They also visit Mount Arafat, which is an important religious site. Also written as Arafah, it is a granite hill and also known as the Mountain of Mercy.

What is Arafah day?

The 9th day of the Islamic month Dhu al-Hijjah is known as the day of Arafat. It is the day before Eid al-Adha which occurs on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is considered the holiest day in the Islamic calendar and the night is considered as the Night of Power. At the dawn of this day, pilgrims make their way to Mount Arafat from Mina, the city of tents in Saudi Arabia.

Arafah day 2023

The day of Arafat will begin on the evening of 27 June, Tuesday, and end on 28 June Wednesday. The day will observe the day offering prayer to almighty Allah and those on Hajj will reach mount Arafat.

Arafah meaning

Arafah is a mountain located in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The mountain is known as the Mountain of Recognition and plays a vital role during Hajj. Further, the Day of Arafat meaning can be translated to the day on which Muslims travel from Mina to Arafat before the festival of sacrifice.

Importance of the Day of Arafah

Mount Arafat holds massive importance among Muslims as it is the hill where Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) stood and delivered the Farewell Sermon to Muslims who accompanied him to Hajj towards the end of his life. Some hold the belief that part of the Quranic verse announcing that the religion of Islam had been perfected was revealed on this day. One hadith says that ‘Hajj is Arafat’ (Abu Dawud).

This means Arafat is the sum and substance of Hajj. On this day, Allah mercifully forgives every sinner who asks for forgiveness.

Fasting on the Day of Arafah

Fasting on the Day of Arafah is highly recommended for those who are not performing the Hajj pilgrimage. This voluntary fast holds great rewards and blessings.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said,

"Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.”

This profound statement emphasizes the significance of this fast and highlights its ability to serve as a means of spiritual purification and atonement.

Arafah Prayer

On this day, one must pray to Allah for forgiveness and blessings. The Arafat prayer is a special prayer that holds immense significance. It is recommended to recite supplications and remembrance of Allah abundantly during this time. The Arafat prayer can be performed individually or in congregation. It is a time for introspection, seeking forgiveness, and making heartfelt prayers to Allah.

Day of Arafah Hadiths

There are several Hadiths that highlight the significance and blessings of the Day of Arafat. Abu Huraira reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"(the Promised Day) is the Day of Resurrection, and Al-Yawmul-Mashhud (the Attended Day) is the Day of Arafah, and Ash-Shahid (the witness) is Friday." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3339).

This Hadith emphasizes the special status of the Day of Arafat.

Another Hadith narrated by Aisha states,

"There is no day when God sets free more servants from Hell than the Day of 'Arafa. He draws near, then praises them to the angels, saying: What do these want?" (Sahih Muslim 1348).

This Hadith illustrates the immense opportunity for forgiveness and redemption that Allah grants on this auspicious day.

Conclusion

The Day of Arafat holds great significance in Islam, symbolizing forgiveness, blessings, and an opportunity for spiritual renewal. Muslims around the world observe this day with fasting, prayer, and supplication, seeking Allah's mercy and forgiveness. It is a time to reflect on one's deeds, seek forgiveness for past mistakes, and renew one's commitment to the principles of Islam. May Allah accept the prayers and supplications of all those who observe this blessed day and grant them forgiveness and blessings.