SHAH ALAM - Today, the 9th day of Zulhijjah is one of the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar - a day so significant that Allah declared in the Quran: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you." (Al-Ma'idah: 3).
Here is how Muslims can make the most of it.
1. Make doa
The Day of Arafah is considered the best day for supplication, as the Prophet Muhammad said the best doa is the one made on this day. Pray for forgiveness, good health, halal sustenance and the well-being of Muslims worldwide.
2. Perform zikr
Increase your remembrance of Allah by reciting: La ilaha illallah wahdahu la syarikalah, lahul mulku walahul hamdu wa huwa 'ala kulli syai'in qadir (There is no god but Allah alone, without partner. To Him belongs all sovereignty and all praise, and He has power over all things). You can also offer optional prayers, recite the Quran and send salutations upon the Prophet.
3. Recite Tahleel, Takbeer, Tahmeed and Tasbeeh
It is a Sunnah of the Prophet to recite these four praises of Allah as many times as possible on the Day of Arafah and throughout the days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th and 13th of Zulhijjah):
- Tahleel (Laa ilaaha il-lal-laah),
- Takbeer (Allahu Akbar)
- Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) and
- Tasbeeh (Subhanallah).
4. Fast
Fasting on the Day of Arafah carries immense rewards. According to hadith, the Prophet said he hoped that Allah would forgive the sins of the year before and the year after for those who fast on this day.
5. Seek forgiveness and repent
The Day of Arafah is described in hadith as the day on which Allah frees more of His servants from hellfire than on any other day, making it the most opportune time to sincerely repent and seek His mercy.
6. Reflect and renew your faith
Use the day for self-reflection and to strengthen your spiritual resolve. Scholars note that in an age of emotional stress, fierce competition and social media overload, the Day of Arafah offers a chance to renew one's faith and build a more meaningful sense of hope.