Here Are the Reasons Why You Should Fast on Arafah Day
What is Arafah Day?
Arafah Day is a significant observance in Islam, which falls usually on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. It is a main pillar of the Hajj pilgrimage, where millions of Muslims gather at the Plain of Arafat near Mecca. The day is marked by prayers, supplications, and reflection, as Muslims seek forgiveness and spiritual elevation. It holds immense religious importance and is considered a crucial part of the Hajj rituals.
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When is Arafah Day?
The day of Arafat is scheduled to begin on the evening of Saturday, June 15th and end on Sunday, June 16th. During this time, Muslims will engage in prayer with devotion to Allah, while those participating in the Hajj pilgrimage will reach Mount Arafat.
What is the Meaning of “Arafah Day”?
Arafat is a mountain located in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The Mountain is known as the Mountain of Recognition and holds huge significance during the Hajj pilgrimage. The Day of Arafat meaning goes back to the day when Muslims travel from Mina to Arafat before the festival of sacrifice, symbolizing a crucial stage of the pilgrimage.
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Why Arafah Day is Important?
Mount Arafat holds massive importance for Muslims as it is the location where Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon to the Muslims who joined him on his Hajj pilgrimage before his passing. It is believed by some that a portion of the Quranic verse announcing the religion of Islam had been perfected was revealed on this day.
Should We fast on Arafah Day?
Observing a fast on the Day of Arafat, even for those not on pilgrimage, is strongly recommended as a Sunnah. This act carries a significant reward, as Allah forgives sins over two years. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) responded to a question about fasting on this day, stating that it expiates for past and future sins. However, it is advised not to fast while performing the Hajj pilgrimage in order to have strength for the prayers.
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Benefits of Fasting on Arafah Day
There are many benefits of fasting alone. However, fasting on this day doubles the rewards. Some of the benefits of fasting on the day of Arafat are:
- People who observe the fast with the intention of Arafat fasting are granted forgiveness for their past sins and hope for a better future. As Islam was perfected and made complete on this day, fasting is a matter of showing gratitude to Allah for Islam
- Allah forgives Muslims who fast on this day and prevents them from hellfire
- On this day, Allah forgives the sins of the believers even if the individual has done many wrong deeds
What do Pilgrims do on Hajj on the Day of ’Arafah’?
On the Day of 'Arafah during Hajj, pilgrims come around to the plain of 'Arafah, which is a main part of the Hajj ritual. They engage in acts of worship, including prayers and duas, seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah. The day is marked by devotion, reflection, and remembrance of Allah's mercy and forgiveness. Pilgrims stand in vigil and listen to sermons delivered by religious scholars, asking for spiritual purification.
On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims journey to the plains of 'Arafat where they combine their Dhuhr and Asr prayers. Then, they spend the entire day making du’a, and stand until sunset facing the Qiblah while seeking forgiveness for their sins. This is the most important ritual of the Hajj, without which the Hajj would be incomplete. The Prophet said, ’Hajj is ‘Arafah’. It is a precious occasion when millions of pilgrims, previously tempted by Satan, repent and find forgiveness through Allah's love and mercy. Their sins are erased, leaving them as pure as newborns. At sunset, they leave 'Arafat and proceed to Muzdalifah, where they pray Maghrib and Isha prayers before spending the night under the open sky, all equal without any tents or shelter.
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