ʿArafah (عرفة)
Definition
ʿArafah (عرفة) refers to the day during the Hajj pilgrimage when Muslim pilgrims gather at Mount ʿArafāt. This event occurs on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The day of ʿArafah is considered one of the holiest days in Islam, marking a period of intense worship, prayer, and reflection.
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
The Arabic word ʿArafah (عرفة) is derived from the verb “ʿarafa” (عَرَفَ), which means “to know” or “to recognize.” The significance of this term is often linked to the idea of consciousness, knowledge, and awareness, themes deeply connected to the spiritual rituals observed on this day.
Significance in Islam
Hajj Pilgrimage
Mount ʿArafāt is a granite hill located east of Mecca in the central part of the Hijaz region, Saudi Arabia. Being present at Mount ʿArafāt on the Day of ʿArafah is an essential ritual of the Hajj pilgrimage. Missing this stay invalidates the pilgrimage.
Rituals on the Day of ʿArafah
Pilgrims engage in the following practices on this day:
- Supplication (Dua’): Pilgrims spend the day in deep supplication, asking for God’s forgiveness and blessings.
- Standing at ʿArafāt (Wuquf): From noon to sunset, pilgrims stand in the plain of ʿArafāt in contemplation and prayer, recognizing their sins and seeking divine pardon.
- Listening to the Khutbah: A religious sermon is usually delivered, emphasizing the significance of the day and the importance of seeking forgiveness and mercy.
Relation to ʿĪdu ʾl-Aẓḥā
The day following ʿArafah is ʿĪdu ʾl-Aẓḥā (Feast of Sacrifice), one of the two major Islamic holidays. The vigil of ʿArafah leads into this festival, symbolizing the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
Fasting on the Day of ʿArafah
For Muslims who are not performing Hajj, fasting on the Day of ʿArafah is highly recommended. It is believed that fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year and the forthcoming year.
Turkish Translation
In Turkish, ʿArafah is also referred to as Arefe Günü. The practices, rituals, and significance remain consistent with the Islamic teachings observed worldwide.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Hajj: Pilgrimage in Islam” by F.E. Peters
- “Hajj: Journey to the Heart of Islam” by Venetia Porter
- “The Five Pillars of Islam” by Musharraf Hussain
- “Approaching the Qur’an: The Early Revelations” by Michael Sells
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Day of ʿArafah holds immense spiritual and ritual significance in Islam. It represents a day of repentance, mercy, and worship, deeply entwined with the Hajj pilgrimage. The observance of ʿArafah underscores the themes of knowledge, awareness, and supplication, encapsulating the spiritual essence of submission to God.
Understanding the practices and importance of this day enhances one’s appreciation of Islamic traditions and the profound religious experiences associated with Hajj and ʿĪdu ʾl-Aẓḥā.
