“The Day of Arafat” or ‘Arafah’ is a significant date in the Islamic calendar. It falls on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, which is one month before Eid al-Adha (or Hajj). Muslims are required to spend this entire day outside of their homes and in prayerful reflection. The event commemorates when Allah revealed himself to his prophet Muhammad (saw) on Mount Arafat. In order for Muslims to be able to make their way there they must first participate in a series of rituals including bathing, wearing white clothes, abstaining from eating and drinking anything but water up until sunset, then walking between Safa and Marwah seven times each.
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It’s a time when Muslims around the world come together to pray and seek forgiveness for their sins in preparation for Eid al-Adha. Arafah means “The Day of Standing” because on this day we stand before Allah as we pray and ask him to forgive our sins. All non-gathering days are considered part of Hajj (pilgrimage) but Arafat is an important stepping stone that helps us prepare for Eid al-Adha and atone for our past wrongs so that Allah can accept us as His servants once again.
“This year, the Day of Arafah falls on Friday, August 31st. This is a day when Muslims commemorate their collective unity with God and one another. It is also the day preceding Eid al-Adha.”
Also see: Learn to read Holy Quran Online
What does this mean for me?
Well, it means that we are all very close to celebrating Eid Al-Adha! So be sure to get your supplies ready and have them nearby so you’ll be able to start cooking as soon as Eid Al-Adha arrives!
“What is the day of Arafah?” you may be asking. Well, that would depend on who you ask and where they are from. There are three opinions: The most common opinion is that it falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the 12th month in Islamic calendar) and lasts for one day; The second opinion is that it falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah (again, the 12th month in Islamic calendar) and lasts for two days; And finally, there’s an opinion which says that it starts at sunset on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah until sunrise on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
The day marks a time when Muslims commemorate Allah’s revelation to Moses in which he was commanded too fast for three days. Observant Muslims spend the entire day praying and fasting from sunrise until sunset while repenting for their sins and asking Allah for forgiveness.
The holiday also commemorates Muhammad’s (SAW) flight from Mecca where he had been persecuted by his opponents who were angry at him because they felt that he was not a good leader.
You can donate your Qurbani here: https://www.sktwelfare.org/our-work-causes/appeals/qurbani/