The Day of Arafah is the 9th of Dhul Hijjah - the day before Eid al-Adha. It is considered the best day of the entire year. Fasting on this day is Sunnah for non-pilgrims and expiates the sins of the previous and coming year. On this day, the pilgrims at Hajj stand on the plain of Arafah in supplication - the central rite of Hajj.
The Greatest Day of the Year
The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) is regarded by many scholars as the single greatest day in the Islamic calendar. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah.” (Muslim)
Fasting on the Day of Arafah
Fasting on this day is Sunnah mu'akkadah (strongly recommended) for those who are not performing Hajj. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah, I hope from Allah, expiates the sins of the year before it and the year after it.” (Muslim)
In 2026, the Day of Arafah is expected on Monday 25 May.
Hajj and Arafah
For the 2+ million pilgrims at Hajj, standing on the plain of Arafah (Wuquf) from Dhuhr until Maghrib is the central pillar of Hajj. Without it, the Hajj is invalid. The pilgrims spend the day in earnest supplication, seeking Allah's forgiveness and mercy.
How to Maximise This Day
- Fast: If not on Hajj, fast the entire day.
- Make abundant dua: The Prophet said the best dua is the dua on the Day of Arafah.
- Recite Quran: Increase your recitation throughout the day.
- Give charity: Good deeds are multiplied immensely.
- Seek forgiveness: Make sincere tawbah (repentance).
- Secure your Qurbani: If you haven't already, give your sacrifice before Eid the following day.
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