In the Islamic Lunar Calendar, specifically the revered Hijri calendar, the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah is celebrated as the Day of Arafah. Far more than just a date on the calendar, Arafah is a profoundly holy and pivotal day for Muslims worldwide, marking the spiritual zenith of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a purely lunar calendar consisting of 12 months, with approximately 354 or 355 days. Unlike the solar Gregorian calendar, Islamic dates shift annually relative to the solar year, which is why the dates for Islamic holidays vary from year to year. Dhu al-Hijjah, meaning "The Possessor of Pilgrimage," is the twelfth and final month of this sacred calendar, renowned for hosting the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, and the subsequent celebration of Eid al-Adha.

The Zenith of Hajj: The Stand on Arafat

The Day of Arafah is unequivocally the most significant day of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is the second day of the core Hajj rituals, following the initial circumambulation of the Kaaba (Tawaf al-Qudum) and the journey to Mina. On this day, millions of pilgrims from across the globe converge on the vast, open plains of Arafat, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The central ritual performed here is known as 'Waqfat Arafa' or 'The Stand on Arafat,' where pilgrims spend the entire day in fervent prayer, supplication, and introspection from noon until sunset.

This powerful gathering is a symbolic reenactment of the Day of Judgment, as all pilgrims stand united, dressed in simple white Ihram garments, facing towards the Qibla (direction of prayer, towards the Kaaba). There are no specific rituals beyond prayer, reflection, and seeking forgiveness. The essence lies in the collective spiritual journey and humility before God.

Historically, the plain of Arafat holds immense religious importance. It is believed to be the place where Prophet Adam and Eve reunited after being cast out of Paradise. More significantly, it was on Mount Rahmah (Mount of Mercy), within the plains of Arafat, that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon (Khutbat al-Wada') to his companions during his only Hajj pilgrimage. This sermon, delivered shortly before his passing, outlined fundamental principles of Islam, human rights, and social justice, serving as a comprehensive guide for the Muslim community.

Furthermore, Islamic tradition asserts that on this very day, the following verse from the Holy Quran was revealed, signifying the completion and perfection of the Islamic faith: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion." (Quran, Surah Al-Ma'idah, 5:3).

Transition to Eid al-Adha

As the sun sets on the Day of Arafah, pilgrims depart for Muzdalifah, marking the end of the pivotal stand. The immediate follow-up to Arafah is the first day of Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," which commences on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah. This major Islamic holiday is observed by Muslims globally, irrespective of whether they are performing Hajj or not.

Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) unwavering devotion and readiness to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) in obedience to God's command, before God miraculously substituted a ram in his place. The holiday is characterized by special congregational prayers, the ritual sacrifice of an animal (Qurbani), sharing meat with family, friends, and the less fortunate, and general festivities.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Day of Arafah

Why is the Day of Arafah considered so holy?

It is considered holy because it is the day when pilgrims stand on the plains of Arafat, engaging in profound prayer and seeking forgiveness. It is also believed to be the day when the religion of Islam was perfected and when Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon.

Is fasting on the Day of Arafah mandatory for all Muslims?

Fasting on the Day of Arafah is highly recommended (Sunnah) for Muslims who are not performing Hajj. For those undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage, fasting on this day is generally not recommended, as they need their strength for the rigorous rituals.

What is the significance of the Day of Arafah for non-pilgrims?

For non-pilgrims, fasting on the Day of Arafah is a significant act of worship. Islamic tradition holds that fasting on this day expiates sins for the year gone by and the year to come. It's a day of intense prayer and seeking proximity to God.