The Day of Arafat is on the 2nd day of Hajj. In the morning, nearly 2 million Muslims will leave Mecca and arrive at a hillside and plain called Mount Arafat and the plain of Arafat.
Why do Pilgrims go to Arafat?
They spend their entire day, dawn to sunset, praying for forgiveness to Allah and reciting words of prayer and remembrance. They believe God is more likely to answer their prayers if they are made within this scared place of Arafat. Most pilgrims start to cry as they try to seek God’s mercy as it is a very important time for them and it also shows their devotion to Allah. This day is one of the most important days of a Muslims life and they will feel so emotional that day.
Why is Mount Arafat so special?
Millions of Muslims come here because the Prophet Muhammad is reported to have come to mount Arafat and ask Allah for forgiveness and he was granted his wish. Now millions of pilgrims go there each year on Hajj hoping the same will happen to them and that when they leave, they feel reborn without any sins.
What do the pilgrims wear?
Pilgrims wear simple white robes to show equality and selflessness. On Hajj, no-one is better or worse than anyone else. Everyone is treated equally and also with respect.
What do Muslims do if they are not on Hajj?
Muslims around the world who are not participating in the pilgrimage often spend this day in fasting and devotion to show respect to Allah and to their religion.
What do Pilgrims think of Arafat?
One woman said, “The Atmosphere and the site of millions praying to Allah allowed you to understand why this is the most important part of your Hajj pilgrimage.”
Another Pilgrim said, “Nothing I can say can put you there to feel the power of those few hours. It is the only thing that could allow you to understand the power of Arafat.”
"Whenever I stand on Mount Arafat I feel reborn." said Ruquia Manouzi, a Moroccan woman.