The Most Blessed Day of the Year
The Day of Arafah, falling on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is one of the most sacred and spiritually powerful days in Islam. It is the day when millions of pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafah during Hajj, standing in humility and supplication, just as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did when he delivered his final sermon.
Even for those not on pilgrimage, Arafah is a day filled with opportunity – a time to seek forgiveness, to fast, to make heartfelt dua, and to draw nearer to Allah (SWT).
It is also the day when Allah (SWT) frees more people from the Hellfire than on any other day.
The Pinnacle of the Ten Blessed Days
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are among the most sacred in the Islamic calendar. Regarding their virtue, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
The people asked, “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?”
He said: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight, giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.”
(Al-Bukhari)
How to Make the Most of This Blessed Day
The Day of Arafah is a precious gift, a time for forgiveness, reflection, and drawing closer to Allah (SWT). Even if you’re not on Hajj, you can still honour this day in powerful ways:
1. Fast, if you can
Fasting on Arafah is a beautiful Sunnah for those not on pilgrimage. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said it expiates the sins of the previous year and the year to come. It is one of the most rewarding fasts of the entire year.
2. Make heartfelt dua
Arafah is the best day of the year to make dua. Turn to Allah (SWT) in sincerity – ask for forgiveness, guidance, and ease for yourself, your family, and the entire Ummah.
3. Give charity
Charity given on the Day of Arafah is greatly rewarded. Use this opportunity to support those facing hardship in regions like Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Sudan. Your giving can be the answer to someone’s prayer.
4. Reflect and renew your intention
Let Arafah be a moment of reflection. Take time to assess your relationship with Allah (SWT), realign your intentions, and commit to positive change moving forward.
Let Your Giving Reach Those In Need
One of the most meaningful ways to honour this sacred day is through sincere charity. While you fast, make dua, and reflect, your giving can serve as a direct act of mercy to those in need.
Let the Day of Arafah be a day of worship, compassion, and lasting impact.