Arafah & Eid: Days of Forgiveness & Liberation

The Day of Arafah is the spiritual pinnacle of the Islamic calendar. Falling on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, it is a day of unparalleled mercy where Allah descends closest to His creation, offering absolute forgiveness and liberation from the Fire to those who sincerely seek it.

For those not performing Hajj, this day holds an immense opportunity to draw closer to Allah from home. It is a time to dedicate yourself to deep worship, heartfelt Dua, and sincere repentance.

The Prophet (SAW) said:

“There is no day on whichAllah frees people from the Fire more so thanon the day of Arafah. He comes close to those(people standing on Arafah), and then Hereveals before His Angels saying, ‘What are thesepeople seeking?”

“Fasting the day of `Arafah expiates the sins oftwo years: the past one and the coming one.”

Indeed, it would be a wasted opportunity if we did notspend the Day of Arafah trying to be one of those people whom Allah draws near to and forgives.

How to Make the Most of this Blessed Day:

• Observe the Fast: As promised by the Prophet (saw), fasting on this day wipes away the sins of the previous year and the year to come. It is an easy action with an extraordinary reward.

• Increase in Dua: The Prophet (saw) said, “The best of supplications is the supplication on the Day of Arafah.” Prepare your list of prayers for yourself, your loved ones, and the global Ummah, especially before the Maghrib prayer.

• Seek Forgiveness (Istighfar): Use this time to reflect on your shortcomings and ask Allah to cleanse your record, trusting in His infinite mercy to free you from the Fire.

Eid ul Adha

Eid ul-Adha is a beautiful culmination of the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah a day of joy, gratitude, and community unity. Beyond the foundational sunnah practices of preparation and prayer, the true essence of this day lies in reviving the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (as) through the act of Qurbani.

This Eid, as we gather with our families in comfort and put on our best clothes, let us remember that the sacrifice we offer is a tangible lifeline for those facing extreme hardship. Following the Sunnah by sharing our Qurbani ensures that the joy of Eid reaches far beyond our own doorsteps, providing essential nourishment, dignity, and a sense of celebration to vulnerable families and orphans who need it most.

The following acts are Sunnah on the day of Eid ul Adha:

• To wake up early in the morning.
• To clean one’s teeth with a miswak and have a shower.
• To put on one’s best available clothes and perfume.
• To not eat before the Eid prayer.
• To recite the Takbir of Tashreeq while going to Eid prayer.
• To take a different route home and greet as many people as possible.
• For women to attend the Eid prayer even if they are not praying.
• To offer one’s Qurbani and share it with family, friends and the needy.

Embrace the Blessings of the Day:

• Perform the Takbeerat: Fill your morning with the praise of Allah, keeping the remembrance of His greatness alive from the moment you wake up until you return home.

• Spread Peace and Greetings: As you change your route home, smile, greet neighbours, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within your community.

• Extend Your Table: Ensure a portion of your sacrifice goes directly to the needy, transforming your act of worship into a beautiful gesture of global solidarity.