Day of Arafah
The climax of Hajj, millions of pilgrims stand on the plain of Arafah in prayer.
The Day of Arafah falls on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar, the day before Eid al-Adha. It moves about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year, cycling through all seasons over about 33 years.
When Is Day of Arafah?
The Day of Arafah falls on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar, the day before Eid al-Adha. It moves about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year, cycling through all seasons over about 33 years.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
The Day of Arafah (9th of Dhul Hijja) is the most important day of Hajj. Pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafah near Mecca. The Prophet said: 'Hajj is Arafah.' Non-pilgrims are encouraged to fast, which the Prophet said expiates sins of the past and coming year.
How It Is Observed
Pilgrims: standing (wuquf) on the plain of Arafah from noon to sunset in supplication, one of the largest annual gatherings on earth. Non-pilgrims: fasting and prayer.
Sacred Text
“But when you depart from 'Arafat, remember Allah at al-Mash'ar al-Haram. And remember Him, as He has guided you, for indeed, you were before that among those astray.”
, Quran 2:198 ↗