عرفات — رہنما

نبی کریم Muhammad (صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم) said, 'حج is عرفات' (Ahmad, Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud), emphasizing that the standing at عرفات is the essential pillar without which حج is invalid. This applies equally to men and women — there is no difference in the obligation or spiritual reward. Women arrive at عرفات on the morning of the 9th Dhul Hijjah, typically by bus from منیٰ. Upon arrival, حجاج are assigned tents within their حج group's designated area. The day is spent in worship — دعا, قرآن recitation, dhikr, and نماز. Dhuhr and Asr نمازs are combined and shortened (Dhuhr as two rakaat, Asr as two rakaat, prayed together at the time of Dhuhr). This is the most powerful day of the entire حج for دعا, and حجاج are encouraged to supplicate from noon until sunset with their deepest and most heartfelt requests to Allah.

The Day of عرفات is physically demanding, often taking place during extreme heat. Women should stay well-hydrated, drinking water continuously even when not thirsty. Lightweight, breathable احرام clothing is essential. Use an umbrella for sun protection if stepping outside the tent. Most modern حج camp tents are air-conditioned, and spending the majority of the day inside the tent is perfectly acceptable — the obligation is presence within عرفات's boundaries, not standing outdoors. Restroom facilities in the women's areas of the tent camps vary in quality, so carrying personal hygiene supplies is important. Menstruating women participate fully in the Day of عرفات — menstruation does not affect the validity of wuquf (standing), and all دعائیں and dhikr are fully valid. The only restriction is that the menstruating woman does not pray the formal salah.

The Day of عرفات is considered the greatest day of the year for forgiveness and answered نمازs. نبی کریم (صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم) said, 'There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of عرفات' (Muslim). To maximize this opportunity, prepare your دعا list in advance — write down everything you want to ask Allah for, including نمازs for family, community, and the ummah. Begin your دعائیں after the combined Dhuhr-Asr نماز and continue until sunset. Alternate between دعا, dhikr, and قرآن recitation to maintain spiritual energy. Cry before Allah if you can — this day is about humility, surrender, and sincere turning to your Creator. The best دعا of عرفات, as narrated by نبی کریم, is: 'La ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa ala kulli shay'in qadir.' Recite it abundantly while also making personal دعائیں in your own language.