The Day of Arafah

The Day of Arafah falls in the month of Dhul Hijjah, one of the four sacred months. Dhul Hijjah translates to the month of pilgrimage and is the 12^th month in the Islamic calendar. The other sacred months are Muharram, Rajab, and Dhul Qadah, in which both good and bad deeds weigh heavier on the scales. This means we must be careful to avoid sinning while increasing our good deeds.

It is during the month of Dhul Hijjah that many Muslims go and perform Hajj – the pilgrimage that should be done at least once a lifetime by every able Muslim. Fighting in Dhul Hijjah was made forbidden so as to allow pilgrims to go for Hajj safely.

Dhul Hijjah is expected to begin on 1 June 2023 and end on 20 July 2023. (These dates are subject to change based on moon sightings.)

Fasting on the Day of Arafah

The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Fasting the day of Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past one and the coming one” (Muslim).

Those performing Hajj should not fast on the Day of Arafah as this is Makruh, but it is recommended for non-pilgrims to fast on this day. We should try to increase other forms of worship, too, especially if we are unable to go for Hajj, such as helping the poor, feeding the needy, praying voluntary prayers and reading Qur’an.

What Can You Do During Dhul Hijjah?

• Fasting in the first 10 days is recommended: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “One fast during these days is equal to the fasting of one complete year, and the worship of one night during this period is equal to the worship in the Laylatul Qadr” (Tirmidhi).
• Dhikr, Qur’an reading and making dua are all good deeds to increase during this month.
• Give Qurbani on the 10^th, 11^th, or 12^th day of Dhul Hijjah to commemorate the sacrifice that Ibrahim (AS) was willing to make for Allah (SWT) by sacrificing his son, Ismail (AS).
• Help the needy and poor in your community as well as around the world by donating to Muslim Aid. The Prophet, upon him, be peace, said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)

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Muhammad, upon him, be peace, said: "When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased)." (Muslim)