Day of Arafat

Day of Arafat History

The Day of Arafah (Arabic: يوم عرفة) is the day on which Muslim Hajj pilgrims gather on Mount Arafah, praying and supplicating to their Lord.  Crowds of people stand on Mount Arafah, which is meant to remind those standing of the Day of Resurrection, when crowds of people stand waiting for judgment.  Standing as a singular community encourages pilgrims to rid themselves of false pride.

The Day of Arafah is on the  ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic year.   Those who are not on the holy pilgrimage (not in Arafah) are highly recommended by Islamic tradition to fast.

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 Arafah.  For that reason, it is visited by pilgrims during the Hajj.
• Standing on top of Mount Arafah 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.

Day of Arafat Top Events and Things to Do

• 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 Mount Arafah, pilgrims cast stones at a pillar that represents the devil as part of Hajj.  According to tradition, at least forty-nine stones need to be cast.
• Although not required by Islamic tradition, many pilgrims spend the night at Mount Arafah and on the surrounding plains keeping vigil and praying for forgiveness.

Day of Arafat References and Related Sites