Introduction
The Day of Arafat is one of the most spiritually powerful days in the Islamic calendar. It falls on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, just one day before Eid al-Adha, and it holds deep meaning for both pilgrims performing Hajj and Muslims around the world who are not. On this day, millions of Hajj pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat near Makkah, standing in worship, making dua, and seeking forgiveness from Allah. But even if you are not at Hajj, you can still take part in the blessings of this sacred day through one powerful act: fasting on the Day of Arafat.
According to authentic hadiths, fasting on this day wipes away the sins of the past year and the coming year. It is a rare opportunity for spiritual cleansing and connection with Allah, all through a simple but sincere fast.
In this article, we will explore:
- What makes the Day of Arafat so special
- The virtues and rewards of fasting on this day
- Who should fast (and who should not)
- How to prepare and make the most of the day, even if you’re working or busy
Whether you’re fasting for the first time or simply want a reminder of its blessings, this guide will help you understand the beauty and power of fasting on the Day of Arafat.
What Is the Day of Arafat?
The Day of Arafat is one of the most sacred days in Islam. It takes place on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar. This is the day when millions of pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat, just outside Makkah, during the Hajj pilgrimage.
For those performing Hajj, standing at Arafat is the most important part of the pilgrimage. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Hajj is Arafah” (Tirmidhi), meaning that the main ritual of Hajj is being present on this day, asking Allah for mercy and forgiveness.
But the Day of Arafat is not only for those at Hajj. For Muslims around the world, it’s a day of immense blessing and mercy. It’s a time to seek forgiveness, make dua, and reflect on one’s faith—even from home.
A Powerful Moment in History
The Day of Arafat also holds historical importance. It was on this day that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave his Farewell Sermon—a powerful and timeless message delivered to over 100,000 Muslims. In that sermon, the Prophet ﷺ spoke about the rights of others, the unity of the Muslim Ummah, and the core teachings of Islam.
It was also on this very day that Allah revealed the verse:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion, completed My favor upon you, and have approved for you Islam as your religion.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:3)
This verse marked the completion of Islam as a way of life.
So whether you are on the plains of Arafat or observing it from afar, this day calls every Muslim to remember their purpose, renew their faith, and seek closeness to Allah.
Virtues of Fasting on the Day of Arafat
The rewards of fasting on the Day of Arafat are immense—so much so that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ personally encouraged it for those not performing Hajj.
According to an authentic hadith in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
(Sahih Muslim, 1162)
That is two years of forgiveness, just for one day of sincere fasting. There are very few opportunities in Islam that offer such a powerful reward in such a simple act.
A Special Gift for Non-Pilgrims
For those who are not performing Hajj, fasting on the Day of Arafat is a beautiful way to spiritually connect with this sacred time. While pilgrims are standing on the plains of Arafat seeking forgiveness, Muslims across the world can share in the blessings from wherever they are by fasting, making dua, and remembering Allah.
It is as if Allah, in His mercy, gave all Muslims, whether on Hajj or not, a way to tap into the immense blessings of this day.
A Day That Changes Your Life
Think about it: one fast, done sincerely, can wipe away your past mistakes and protect you from future ones. It is not just about skipping food or drink. It is about realigning your heart, repenting for your wrongs, and strengthening your bond with Allah. Whether you are working, studying, or staying at home, fasting on this day is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to elevate your spiritual state.
Who Should Fast on the Day of Arafat?
Fasting on the Day of Arafat is a highly recommended act of worship for Muslims who are not performing Hajj. If you’re at home, at work, or anywhere outside of the pilgrimage, fasting on this blessed day is one of the easiest ways to gain Allah’s forgiveness and mercy.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ clearly encouraged non-pilgrims to fast on this day. As mentioned in authentic hadiths, the fast wipes away sins of the previous year and the coming year. That is a gift every Muslim should try to take advantage of.
What About Those Performing Hajj?
For those actually performing Hajj, it is not recommended to fast on the Day of Arafat. In fact, the Prophet ﷺ himself did not fast on this day while he was at Arafat during his Farewell Pilgrimage.
Why? Because standing at Arafat is the most intense and important part of Hajj. Pilgrims need their full energy and focus to make du’a, worship sincerely, and remain in a state of devotion. Fasting could weaken them and distract from the physical and spiritual effort required.
This guidance is based on mercy and practicality—Islam never burdens the believer beyond what they can handle.
In Summary:
- ✅ Non-Hajj Muslims: Strongly encouraged to fast.
- ❌ Pilgrims at Hajj: Should not fast, based on the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Whether you are fasting at home or standing in Arafat, this day is a chance to renew your faith and earn Allah’s forgiveness in a powerful way.
How to Prepare for Fasting on Arafat
Fasting on the Day of Arafat is not just about avoiding food and drink. It is a chance to spiritually recharge, draw closer to Allah, and reset your heart. To make the most of this powerful day, a little preparation goes a long way. Here is how you can prepare physically and spiritually for this blessed fast:
Make a Clear Intention (Niyyah)
As with all acts of worship in Islam, your intention matters most. You don’t need to say anything out loud—just make a firm decision in your heart the night before that you’re fasting for the sake of Allah on the Day of Arafat.
Pro tip: The intention doesn’t have to be complex. A sincere thought like “I’m fasting tomorrow to please Allah” is enough.
Wake Up for Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)
Start your fast with suhoor, even if it is just a few sips of water or a date. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Eat suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)Choose light but energizing foods like oatmeal, fruits, eggs, or yogurt, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Fill Your Day with Worship
The Day of Arafat is one of the most spiritually rich days of the year. Use this time to:
- Make lots of du’a, especially for forgiveness, guidance, and the well-being of loved ones.
- Recite takbeer, tahleel, and tahmeed (saying Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illAllah, Alhamdulillah).
- Read Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Kahf, or other short surahs for extra reward.
- Spend quiet moments in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and reflection.
One of the best du’as to repeat on this day, as taught by the Prophet ﷺ, is:
“Lā ilāha illa Allāh, waḥdahu lā sharīka lah, lahu al-mulku wa lahu al-ḥamd, wa huwa ‘alā kulli shay’in qadīr.”
(“There is no god but Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs the kingdom and praise, and He is over all things capable.”)
Balance Your Day Wisely
If you have work or family commitments, plan ahead so you can make time for worship without stress. Even if you’re busy, you can still:
- Listen to Qur’an or reminders during breaks.
- Make dhikr while driving, cooking, or walking.
- Schedule quiet moments for du’a between tasks.
Remember, it is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about doing what you can with sincerity.
Difference Between Fasting on the Day of Arafat and Ashura
Many Muslims hear about the virtues of both fasting on the Day of Arafat and fasting on the Day of Ashura, but it’s important to understand that they are two separate days with different historical significance, purposes, and rewards.
Let’s break it down clearly:
Different Dates
- Day of Arafat: 9th of Dhul-Hijjah (the day before Eid al-Adha).
- Day of Ashura: 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
These dates are not close together and occur in completely different months, so it’s helpful to keep track using an Islamic calendar.
Different Backgrounds and Purpose
- Fasting on the Day of Arafat is related to the Hajj pilgrimage. It’s the day when pilgrims stand on the plain of Arafat seeking forgiveness. Non-pilgrims are encouraged to fast as a way to share in the blessings of this sacred time.
- Fasting on the Day of Ashura is tied to the historical event of Prophet Musa (Moses) ﷺ and the Children of Israel being saved from Pharaoh. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ observed this fast and encouraged Muslims to do the same in gratitude to Allah.
Different Rewards
- Fasting on Arafat: “Expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Reward: 2 years of forgiveness - Fasting on Ashura: “Expiates the sins of the past year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Reward: 1 year of forgiveness
Both fasts are extremely rewarding, but fasting on the Day of Arafat carries a greater reward due to its unique timing and connection to Hajj.
Sunnah Practice
- The Prophet ﷺ fasted both days, but on Ashura, he also recommended fasting the day before or after (9th or 11th of Muharram) to distinguish it from the Jewish tradition.
- On Arafat, there is no recommendation to fast an extra day; just the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah is sufficient for non-pilgrims.
Common Questions About Fasting on the Day of Arafat (FAQs)
Many Muslims have questions about fasting on the Day of Arafat, especially when it comes to practical situations. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, based on authentic Islamic sources and scholarly opinion.
Is Fasting on Arafat Obligatory?
No, fasting on the Day of Arafat is not obligatory—but it is highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) for those who are not performing Hajj.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly encouraged this fast due to its immense rewards. However, if you cannot fast for a valid reason (illness, travel, menstruation, etc.), you are not sinful.
Reminder: It’s a Sunnah, not a fardh (obligation), but the reward is too great to miss if you’re able!
Can I Combine My Intention (e.g., Making Up a Missed Fast)?
Yes, you can combine intentions when fasting on the Day of Arafat. For example, if you need to make up a missed Ramadan fast, you can make the intention to fast that day while also hoping for the reward of Arafat.
Most scholars agree that one fast can fulfill multiple intentions—as long as you’re sincere and the fast itself is valid.
Tip: Say to yourself, “I intend to make up a missed Ramadan fast and also hope to earn the reward of fasting on Arafat.”
What If I Miss It—Can I Make It Up Later?
The special reward tied to fasting on the Day of Arafat is linked to that specific date: the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah. So, if you miss the fast, you cannot make it up on another day for the same reward.
However, if you had a valid excuse (like illness or travel), know that Allah is Merciful and rewards based on intention. If you truly wanted to fast but couldn’t, you may still hope for Allah’s reward.
Remember: “Actions are judged by intentions.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
If you are unsure whether you can fast, make your intention the night before and give it a try. Even if it ends up being partial or incomplete, you made the effort, and that counts in the eyes of Allah.
Final Thoughts
Fasting on the Day of Arafat is truly one of the most powerful and rewarding acts of worship a Muslim can perform. It offers a unique chance to seek forgiveness for both past and future sins, making it a gift of mercy from Allah that we should all strive to embrace.
This blessed day connects us spiritually with the millions of pilgrims standing on the plain of Arafat, reminding us of our shared faith and the importance of repentance, humility, and devotion.
By fasting on this day, you’re not just abstaining from food and drink—you’re nurturing your soul, strengthening your relationship with Allah, and renewing your commitment to live a life pleasing to Him.
So, seize this opportunity with sincerity and gratitude. Let the fast of Arafat be a step toward spiritual growth, cleansing of the heart, and closeness to Allah.
May Allah accept your fast, forgive your sins, and grant you His endless mercy.
Read Also: Hajj Step by Step: A Complete Guide for First-Time Pilgrims