Everyday Events
It is the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and the day after is the first day of the major Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha.
The Day of Arafah is the day on which Muslim Hajj pilgrims gather on Mount Arafah, praying and supplicating to their Lord. Crowds of people stand on Mount Arafah, which is meant to remind those standing of the Day of Resurrection, when crowds of people stand waiting for judgment. Standing as a singular community encourages pilgrims to rid themselves of false pride.
The main facts of the Day of Arafat:
– It is common Muslim belief that the Prophet Muhammad said that fasting on the day of Arafah forgives all the minor sins of the past year and coming year.
– The Prophet Muhammad gave his last sermon standing on Mount Arafah. For that reason, it is visited by pilgrims during the Hajj.
– Standing on top of Mount Arafah completes the Hajj (Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca). It is believed to be the singular most significant act Muslim pilgrims undertake.
– The day of Arafah was declared by Prophet Muhammad as a day of celebration and feasting.
In 2017 Arafat Day falls on a Thursday August 31, so get ready for a 3-day long weekend.
