The Day of Arafah

The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah is the day of 'Arafah. It is the day when Hajj pilgrims stand on the plain of 'Arafat' (a flat wide desert about 22 km south east of Makkah Mukarramah) to pray.

'Arafat literally means knowledge and science.

1- 'Arafat represents the beginning of man's creation, our forefather Hazrat-e Adam. It was the Devil (satan) who misled our forefather and caused the downfall of Hazrat-e Adam and Haw'a. For years, they were separated from each other having descended at different places. It was in 'Arafat' that they met again. It was in a small rocky hill of Jabal al-Rahma (Mount of Mercy) in the center of 'Arafat' that their sins were forgiven by Allah.

The devotional aspects of the gathering at Arafat are a 'devotional act meant to bring to mind the ultimate gathering on Resurrection Day, when every soul will await God's judgment.'

2- In addition, it recalls the last public act of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) when, during his 'Pilgrimage of Farewell,' he went up Mount Arafat and delivered his historical speech.

3- Imam Hussein (A.S), the Third Infallible Imam, made the supplication, Arafah Du'a, one of the most famous in Shi'ite annals, one year during the pilgrimage to Makkah Mukarramah on the Day of Arafah (the ninth of Dhul Hijjah), and it has been recited by Shia Muslims ever since. On that day pilgrims pass the time at Mount Arafat occupying themselves with prayer, reciting the Holy Quran, invocations and supplications. The spirit of the day is well represented in the Imam's prayer.

The du'a of Imam Hussein (A.S) on the route to the historical event of Karbala for the Day of Arafah is very famous for its sublime words and the inspiration they motivate.

Taken from: Imam Reza.Network