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As the pilgrims travel from Mina and come to Arafah to pray, recite, and make du'a, those of us at home can also reap the blessings of Arafah.

The Virtues of the Day of Arafah

Fasting on Arafah:
Even if you did not fast, you can still make the most of this blessed day.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said about fasting on the Day of Arafah, "It erases the sins of the previous year and the coming year" (Sahih Muslim, 1162).

A great reward that not all could action but we trust in Allah's mercy and seek it out through other means. 

A Day of Forgiveness and Freedom:

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) emphasized the significance of the Day of Arafah, stating, “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels, saying, ‘What do these people want?’” (Sahih Muslim, narrated by Aishah, may Allah be pleased with her).

We pray that we are all of those who obtain His forgiveness and are freed from the hell fire. 

A Day of Divine Pride:
Ibn ‘Umar narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Allah expresses His pride to His angels at the last part of the day on the Day of Arafah, about the people of Arafah. He says, ‘Look at My slaves who have come unkempt and dusty.’” (Narrated by Ahmad and classed as sahih by al-Albani).

It's difficult to fathom that as just mere people, that Allah could be proud of us. Set aside time to make heartfelt du'a. 

A Pillar of Hajj:
Abdu Rahman ibn Ya’mar reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “The Hajj is Arafat. Whoever reaches the night of Arafat before the rising of the sun at dawn the next day, he has completed his pilgrimage.” (Sunan al-Nasa’i 3016).

Embrace the Blessings of Arafah at Home

The Day of Arafah is a time for deep reflection, earnest prayers, and seeking Allah’s mercy. Even if you are not among the pilgrims, you can still seize the opportunity to gain immense spiritual rewards.

1. Engage in Dhikr:
Fill your day with the remembrance of Allah. Repeatedly recite phrases like "SubhanAllah" (Glory be to Allah), "Alhamdulillah" (All praise is due to Allah), "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), and "La ilaha illallah" (There is no deity but Allah). These words are powerful and bring you closer to Allah.

2. Make Sincere Du'a:
Spend time making heartfelt supplications. Ask for forgiveness, seek guidance, and pray for your needs and the needs of others. Remember that on this day, Allah is especially generous in answering prayers.

Quick Tips to Make the Most of Each Moment:

- Stay Focused: Minimize distractions and dedicate time for worship and reflection.
- Read Quran: Engage with the Quran, read, and ponder its meanings.
- Give Charity: Perform acts of charity, no matter how small, to earn extra rewards. www.swanlondon.org/donate

- Stay Grateful: Reflect on your blessings and express gratitude to Allah.

Use this blessed day to seek forgiveness, strive for freedom from sin, and reflect on the immense pride Allah has for His devoted worshippers. Every moment today is an opportunity to grow spiritually and draw closer to Allah.