Day of Arafah Begins

Day of Arafat History

The Day of Arafah (Arabic: يوم عرفة) marks the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is a day dedicated to reflection and repentance, as millions of Muslims gather at the plain of Arafah near Mecca to seek Allah’s forgiveness and mercy. While the Hajj pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the Day of Arafah is considered essential for Muslim devotees, as it is believed that sincere prayers during this time can provide salvation from past sins and purification for the coming year.

The origins of the Day of Arafah can be traced back to Prophet Muhammad's final pilgrimage to Mecca in 632 CE, where he delivered his Farewell Sermon. Since then, millions of Muslims have followed in his footsteps, embarking on the spiritual journey to the holy land. In America, the Day of Arafah holds particular significance for the Muslim community, as it not only represents an integral part of their religious identity but also serves as a means to educate and raise awareness about Islam. Additionally, the observance highlights the common values and spiritual aspirations shared by people of diverse faiths in the United States.

Although the Day of Arafah is primarily observed in Mecca as part of the Hajj pilgrimage, Muslims in America can also mark this auspicious day by engaging in various spiritual activities. Fasting, intently reflecting on one's life, and offering special prayers (dua) are some of the ways that American Muslims can participate in the Day of Arafah. The observance usually falls on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is based on the lunar calendar and may vary in its Gregorian date in America. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder to the Muslim community across the nation to pause, reflect, and spiritually reconnect with their faith.

Day of Arafat Facts

• It is common Muslim belief that the Prophet Muhammad said that fasting on the day of Arafah forgives all the minor sins of the past year and coming year.
• The Prophet Muhammad gave his last sermon standing on Mount Arafat. For that reason, it is visited by pilgrims during the Hajj.
• Standing on top of Mount Arafat completes the Hajj (Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca). It is believed to be the singular most significant act Muslim pilgrims undertake.
• The day of Arafah was declared by Prophet Muhammad as a day of celebration and feasting.

In the News and Trending in the US for Day of Arafah Begins

Top things to do in the US for start of the Day of Arafat

• Buy gifts for children. As for him who gives (gifts) and guards against evil and accepts the best, we will facilitate for him the easy end (Quran, 92:5). According to Islamic tradition, those that spend on their children on this day are rewarded by God very generously. As a result, many Muslim parents buy toys and other gifts for their children on the day of Arafah.
• At sunset, pilgrims head to Muzdalifah to spend the night. There, it's customary to collect pebbles for the Stoning of the Devil (Rami al-Jamarat) ritual that happens later in the city of Mina.
• Donate to the less fortunate. Charity is considered an act of worship in Islam and it never hurts to help those in need.