Among the blessed days of the Islamic calendar, none equals the Day of Arafah – the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah. As millions converge on the plains of Arafah at Hajj, Muslims from across the globe have a unique chance to connect with this sacred moment by fasting.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
What Is the Day of Arafah?
The Day of Arafah is the most significant Hajj day. On the day, pilgrims flock to Mount Arafat, standing in prayer, repentance, and supplication from Dhuhr until Maghrib — a time known as Wuquf.
For those who are not making Hajj, fasting on Arafah is doing the most to gain forgiveness for sins on that day.
“There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah.”
(Sahih Muslim)
The Benefits of Fasting on Arafah Day
1. Forgiveness of Two Years of Sins
- Some of the highest spiritual rewards: forgiveness of the sins of the past and of the future.
- It’s a mercy from Allah, especially for those who desire to be at Hajj, yet are not able to do so.
2. Connection to the Hajj Spirit
- Acknowledging that not all Muslims make the pilgrimage to Makkah, but also that many of them fast that day to unite with fellow Muslims in solidarity.
3. Elevated Deeds in Dhul-Hijjah
- The best and most desirable deeds to Allah in the 1st ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.
- Fasting in Arafah increases the spiritual bank record in these already blessed days.
4. Supplication and Reflection
- Fasting gives clarity and focus, it is a powerful time to make du‘a (supplication), ask for forgiveness, and reflect on the year.
Who Should Not Fast on Arafah?
- Pilgrims who are performing Hajj are not advised to fast on the Day of Arafah, as they will need their energy for the wuquf at Arafah.
- Anyone else, male or female, young or old, is encouraged to fast if they are able.
How to Prepare for Fasting Arafah?
- Make an intention (niyyah), the night before or at suhoor.
- Wake up for suhoor for barakah and strength.
- Indulge yourself in remembrance (dhikr), Qur’an, supplication (du‘a), and silence for one day.
- Prepare a special List for du‘a, it is a day on which du‘as are accepted prevalently.
- Express gratitude and humility at the breaking of the fast.
Conclusion
The fast on the day of Arafah is an expiation for two years. a benefit to those who couldn’t perform Hajj, to be able to experience the feeling of Hajj. With two years of sins forgiven, a new access to Allah, and the opportunity to spiritually refresh, this one day is invaluable. May you fast with your soul, mind, and heart, may you break free from sin, may you witness a day of beautiful forgiveness. Aameen.
