Six Reasons You Should Fast On The Day Of Arafah

The Day of Arafah falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah and is considered the most important day of the Islamic Year.

On this day, it is believed that everyone will be resurrected and gathered on Mount Arafat to be held accountable for their actions. Many people, on the Day of Arafah, will submit themselves to worship and fast to cleanse their souls to receive the ultimate reward of entering Jannah (Paradise). This day is also the very essence of Hajj. The Day of Arafah 2024 is expected to fall on the 15 or 16 of June.

Here are six reasons why you should take advantage and fast on this auspicious day:

1. It is the day when the religion of Islam was perfected.

Allah (SWT) revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW): ”Today, I have perfected for you your religion, completed upon you My blessing and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” (Qur’an 5:3)

Fasting is a way to celebrate this monumental occasion.

2. It is the day when the Prophet (SAW) gave his last sermon.

Prophet Muhammed (SAW) delivered his farewell sermon on Mount Arafah. He reminds us to follow the Qur’an and Sunnah and addressed racism, gender equality and human rights.

Fasting allows us to remember the words of the Prophet (SAW).

3. The day Allah (SWT) releases souls from Hell.

The Prophet (SAW) said: “There is no day in which Allah sets free more souls from the fire of hell than on the day of Arafah.” (Muslim)

Fasting is a way for you to focus on your prayers and seek forgiveness and protection from the Hellfire.

4. It is the essence of Hajj.

The ritual of Hajj would not be complete without the blessed journey to Mount Arafah. The Prophet (SAW) said: “Hajj is Arafah.” (Nasa’i) Repenting on the Day of Arafah is a way of renewing your promise to Allah (SWT) and starting afresh.

Fasting on the Day of Arafah and repenting for your sins defeats Shaytaan, who tempted you to commit past sins.

5. It is when Allah (SWT) descends down from the sky.

For the people who stay in Arafah, Allah (SWT) descends to the sky and says to His angels: “My slaves have come to me, looking rough, from every deep valley hoping for my mercy, so if their sins are equivalent to the amount of sand or the drops of rain or like the foam on the sea I will forgive them. So go forth My slaves! Having forgiveness for what and whom you have interceded for.” (at-Tabarani)

6. It is the greatest day of the Islamic Year.

“Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins from the past and coming year.” (Muslim)

Fasting is one of the most favourable acts of worship for Allah (SWT). Fasting on the Day of Arafah is another chance for you to reflect and gain closeness to Allah (SWT) without any worldly distractions.

As a reminder, here is the dua for starting the fast:

This translates to, ‘O Allah! I shall fast for Your sake, so forgive future and past sins.’

We pray that Allah (SWT) allows you to fast on the Day of Arafah so that you can benefit from the blessings of this day. Ameen.

After the Day of Arafah is Eid al-Adha, where animal sacrifices will be made following Eid prayers. If you haven’t yet given your Qurbani, donate now.