Muslims mark Day of Arafat ahead of Eid Ul Hajj

Billions of Muslims across the world have marked the Day of Arafat, which falls on the 9th day of the final month of the Islamic Calendar.

This day is regarded as one of the most significant in Islam and marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage, during which pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafah, near Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

Fasting on this day is highly recommended for Muslims who are not performing the Hajj as it is believed to bring immense spiritual benefits.

From noon to sunset, pilgrims assembled at Mount Arafat, where the Prophet Mohammed(Peace Be Upon Him) is believed to have delivered his final sermon. Dressed in simple white garments known as ihram, pilgrims engage in a ritual known as wuquf, or standing before God.

This act of worship involves supplication, repentance, and seeking mercy. Muslims who are not on pilgrimage also observe Arafat Day with special significance by fasting.

Muslims believe that it was on the Day of Arafah that Allah completed the religion of Islam and fasting on this day leads to the forgiveness of sins committed in the past year and the sins of the coming year.

The Day of Arafah is considered the spiritual climax of the pilgrimage. The collective standing of pilgrims at Arafah is a moment of deep devotion, marking a key milestone in their religious journey. The day of Arafat also preludes Eid al-Adha, which is set to begin the following day.

Muslims around the world celebrate the occasion with special prayers and the ritual sacrifice of livestock, symbolizing Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.