What is Arafat in Hajj and Why is it Important?
Hajj: One of Islam’s Five Pillars
Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is obligatory once in a lifetime for every capable Muslim. Among its many important stages, the Day of Arafat stands out as the most significant.
In this blog, we will explain in simple words what Arafat is, which part of Hajj it belongs to, and why it is so important. This article is written in a way that even a 15-year-old teenager can easily understand.
What is Hajj and What is the Role of Arafat?
Hajj is a sacred religious pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Makkah, performed following specific rituals. It takes place every year from the 8th to the 12th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.
The steps of Hajj include Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, staying in Arafat, sacrifice, and more. Among these, the Day of Arafat is the most important part of Hajj.
What is Arafat?
Arafat is a vast plain near Makkah, about 20 kilometers away. It is a flat, open land with a small hill called Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy).
The name Arafat comes from the Arabic word “Arafa” which means “to know” or “to recognize.” There is a spiritual and historical meaning behind this name.
According to Islamic belief, Adam (AS) and Hawwa (AS) met each other here on earth for the first time after being sent down from Paradise. This is why this place is seen as a symbol of reunion and recognition.
On the Day of Arafat, millions of pilgrims gather in this field and pray to Allah.
What Happens on the Day of Arafat?
On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims go to the plain of Arafat. This day is the most important day of Hajj. Pilgrims arrive in the morning and stay there from noon (after the Dhuhr prayer) until sunset.
This standing or staying is called Wuquf in Arafat. Wuquf means to stand or to stay. During this time, pilgrims remember Allah, make du’a, ask for forgiveness, and seek His mercy.
How is Wuquf in Arafat Performed?
Time: Wuquf starts after the Dhuhr prayer and continues until sunset on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah.
What to do: Pilgrims stand or sit anywhere in the plain of Arafat and remember Allah. They recite Talbiyah, which goes:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka la sharika laka Labbayk. Innal hamda wan ni’mata laka wal mulk, la sharika lak.”
They also recite Qur’an, make du’a, and ask forgiveness for their sins.
Place: Pilgrims can stand anywhere in the plain of Arafat. Many choose to gather near Jabal al-Rahmah, but it is not mandatory.
Wuquf in Arafat is the core of Hajj. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Hajj is Arafat.” This means that without staying in Arafat, Hajj is incomplete.
Why is the Day of Arafat Important?
The Day of Arafat is considered one of the holiest days in Islam. Its importance includes:
1. A Day of Forgiveness:
It is the best day to ask for forgiveness. Muslims believe Allah forgives many sins on this day. That is why pilgrims pray sincerely and repent.
2. A Day of Spiritual Closeness:
Standing in Arafat helps pilgrims feel spiritually closer to Allah. It strengthens their faith. They reflect on their mistakes and make promises to lead a better life.
3. A Symbol of Unity and Equality:
Millions of pilgrims gather wearing the same simple white clothes (Ihram). This shows that everyone is equal before Allah, regardless of wealth or status. It creates a strong sense of brotherhood among Muslims.
4. Historical Significance:
The Day of Arafat reminds us of the sacrifice and faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Hajra (AS), and Ismail (AS). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon here, which is very important in Islamic history.
What Happens After Arafat?
After sunset on the Day of Arafat, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah, which lies between Arafat and Mina. They spend the night there under the open sky and pray Fajr the next morning. They also collect small pebbles there for the stoning ritual (Rami) in Mina.
After Muzdalifah, pilgrims move to Mina to perform the Eid sacrifice and stone the Jamaraat (the pillars representing Satan). Then they return to Makkah for Tawaf al-Ziyarah. In this way, the other stages of Hajj are completed.
How to Prepare for the Day of Arafat
The Day of Arafat is the most important part of Hajj. Here are some helpful tips for preparation:
✅ Physical Preparation:
- Be ready to stand or sit for long hours. Practise walking beforehand to build stamina.
- Be prepared for hot weather. Keep water, an umbrella, and light snacks with you.
✅ Mental Preparation:
- Be patient and calm, as there will be large crowds.
- Plan what you want to ask Allah in advance.
✅ Learn Du’as and Zikr:
- Memorize important du’as for forgiveness and other needs.
- Learn Talbiyah, Qur’anic verses, and other zikr.
- For example: “Allahumma inni as’alukal jannata wa a’udhu bika minan naar.” (O Allah, I ask You for Paradise and seek Your protection from the Fire.)
✅ Rules:
- Learn what is allowed and not allowed while in Ihram.
- Understand the rules of Wuquf so you do not miss anything important.
Interesting Facts About Arafat
🌙 Every year, millions gather in Arafat — it is one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world.
🌙 The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave his Farewell Sermon on Jabal al-Rahmah in Arafat.
🌙 Muslims believe that Allah comes closer to His servants on this day and accepts their prayers.
Which Du’as to Recite on the Day of Arafat?
Pilgrims recite various du’as on this blessed day. Here are some common ones:
- Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”
- Forgiveness Du’a: “Allahummaghfirli warhamni wa’afini warzuqni.” (O Allah! Forgive me, have mercy on me, keep me healthy and provide for me.)
- Salawat (Sending blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ): Reciting Salawat brings great rewards.
You can also make du’a in your own language, asking Allah for good things for yourself and your loved ones.
Conclusion
The Day of Arafat is the heart of Hajj. On this day, pilgrims ask Allah for forgiveness, seek His mercy, and pray for their lives. Arafat is not just an open field; it is the center of a spiritual journey that connects Muslims to Allah.
In this blog, we explained the importance of Arafat and what to do there in simple words so you can easily understand.
👉 Want to know more about Arafat? Leave your questions in the comments below!
Share this blog with your friends so they can learn too. And don’t forget to read our other blogs to explore more about the steps of Hajj!
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