Dua + Speedart + Parallax of Mount Arafah ____________________________________________ What is Arafah? The Day of ‘Arafah is on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah and is one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar. It was on this day that Allah (SWT) perfected His religion, completed His favours upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and approved Islam as a way of life! Subhan’Allah. Allah (SWT) refers to this day in Surah al-Maidah of the holy Qur’an" "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion." [5:3] The Day of ‘Arafah is also known as Yawm Al-Waqf (the Day of Standing), referring to the fact that pilgrims stand in front of their Lord for long periods of time, asking for His divine mercy. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said: "For pilgrims performing Hajj, the Day of ‘Arafah is the most significant day and is the essence and heart of the pilgrimage." ___________________________________________ What do Pilgrims do on the Day of Arafah? After praying Fajr Salah in Mina, pilgrims performing Hajj head to the plains of Arafat. They recite istaghfar (asking for forgiveness) and make earnest dua. Upon reaching Mount Arafat, pilgrims observe shortened Dhuhr and Asr prayers (2 rakat instead of 4). ____________________________________________ What should we do on this day? Fasting: It is highly recommended to fast the Day of ‘Arafah if one is not performing Hajj. Fasting on this day is sunnah and expiates sins of the previous year and the coming year. It is a powerful way to gain blessings and become closer to Allah (SWT). Increase acts of worship: As the most virtuous day of the year for Muslims, it’s important to increase our good deeds in order to gain the blessings of the day. Whether we are performing Hajj or at home this year, we should devote ourselves to dhikr and seeking nearness to Allah. The best acts of dhikr on this day include offering nafl (optional) prayers, reading Qur’an and sending salawat (salutations) upon the Prophet (PBUH). Make lots of dua (supplication): The Day of ‘Arafah is a day of acceptance of dua and Allah showers His mercy and forgiveness to those who turn to Him. Make abundant heartfelt duas for yourselves, your family and for the Muslim ummah, that Allah forgives our sins, fulfils our needs, and allows us to become closer to Him. It is also sunnah to recite the Tahleel (Laa ilaaha il-lal-laah), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and Tahmeed (Alhamdulillaah) frequently on the Day of ‘Arafah, and on the days of Eid – 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Give sadaqah: It’s important to remember our brothers and sisters in need across the globe on this blessed day. Giving sadaqah is one of the most virtuous acts of worship, and giving sadaqah on this holy day can help us gain blessings. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.” (Timidhi). Reflect and show gratitude: The Day of ‘Arafah is a time for introspection and reflection. We should aim to reflect upon our actions during the past year, seek to rectify our shortcomings, and ask for forgiveness for our sins. The Day of ‘Arafah is also a blessed time to reflect on the blessings that Allah (SWT) has provided us with, and to thank Him. Many Muslims celebrate the day by strengthening ties with family and friends, exchanging greetings and sharing food. ____________________________________________
