Do you wonder why the Day of Arafah is special to Muslims?
Why do Muslims fast during this day even if it is not Ramadan?
As a Muslim family, one of the most spiritually uplifting times of the year is the Day of Arafah. This significant day is part of the Hajj pilgrimage and is observed on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
The Day of Arafah is more than just a date on the calendar. It is the day when millions of Muslims gather on the plain of Arafah near Mecca, seeking forgiveness and praying earnestly. Even for those who are not performing Hajj, this day holds significance for Muslims. It’s an opportunity to deepen our faith and seek Allah’s mercy.
So, what makes this day important?
One of the reasons this day is so special is because it’s the day Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered his famous Farewell Sermon. In this sermon, he emphasized the importance of equality, justice, and piety. The Day of Arafah is also when Allah swt perfected the religion of Islam and completed His favor upon Muslims.
For parents, it’s a great time to teach our kids about these important messages. It’s about instilling values of compassion, equality, and faith in Allah swt.
Here’s how we can teach our kids the significance and rituals during this important day:
- Fasting on the Day of Arafah
While those performing Hajj do not fast, it is highly recommended for Muslims around the world to fast on this day. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year. This is a simple yet profound act of worship that we can do with our children. It’s a beautiful way to teach them about the importance of self-discipline and devotion.
- Spending the Day in Prayer
On this holy day, Muslims spend their time in prayer and supplication. It’s a day to ask for forgiveness and to make sincere du’a (prayers) for ourselves, our families, and the entire Muslim ummah (community). As parents, we can encourage our children to join us in these prayers. We can teach them simple du’as and the importance of turning to Allah with a sincere heart.
- Reading and Reflecting on the Quran
Another meaningful way to observe the Day of Arafah is by reading and reflecting on the Quran. It’s a wonderful time to sit down with our children and share stories from the Quran, discuss their meanings, and reflect on how we can apply these lessons in our daily lives. This practice helps strengthen our children’s understanding and love for Islam.
- Connecting with the Global Muslim Community
The Day of Arafah also reminds us that we are part of a larger Muslim community. It’s a day when millions of Muslims around the world are united in their worship and supplication. We can explain to our kids how Muslims from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds come together on this day, emphasizing the unity and brotherhood in Islam.
- Acts of Charity and Good Deeds
Performing good deeds and acts of charity is another way to observe the Day of Arafah. As a family, we can find ways to help those in need, whether it’s through donating to charity, helping a neighbor, or simply spreading kindness. These acts bring us closer to Allah and teach our children the importance of generosity and empathy.
- Creating Lasting Memories
For many families, the Day of Arafah is also about creating lasting memories and traditions. It can be as simple as preparing a special meal to break the fast, sharing stories about the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), or making a family du’a list. These small traditions can impact our children and help them look forward to this special day each year.