By By Elizabeth Ugbo
More than 1.6 million pilgrims gathered on Tuesday at the Plain of Arafat near Makkah, Saudi Arabia, for Wuquf Arafah, the most important rite of Hajj. Pilgrims arrived from early morning on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah to pray, seek forgiveness, recite the Qur’an and reflect spiritually. Saudi authorities coordinated transportation, medical support and crowd control, while health officials issued heat warnings as temperatures rose above 45°C.
Arafat Marks the Spiritual Peak of Hajj
Pilgrims remained within the boundaries of Arafat until sunset, dedicating the day to worship and supplication. In Islamic tradition, the standing at Arafat, known as Wuquf Arafah, represents the heart of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasized the importance of the ritual when he declared: “Hajj is Arafah.” The statement highlights the central role of this gathering in fulfilling the pilgrimage.
The Plain of Arafat lies about 20 kilometres southeast of Makkah. The site features Jabal Al-Rahmah, also called the Mount of Mercy, where many pilgrims gather for prayer and reflection.
Islamic tradition also connects the location to the reunion of Adam and Eve, making it one of Islam’s most spiritually significant places.
Pilgrims Observe Sermon and Combined Prayers
At noon, pilgrims listened to the Arafah sermon, which focused on religious guidance and the virtues of the day.
After the sermon, worshippers performed Dhuhr and Asr prayers together and shortened them according to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.
Throughout the day, pilgrims recited Talbiyah and Takbeer, raised their hands in prayer and sought Allah’s mercy in an atmosphere of devotion and humility.
Saudi Authorities Intensify Safety Measures Amid Extreme Heat
Saudi authorities activated extensive operational plans to manage the movement of pilgrims and maintain safety across the holy sites.
Officials deployed transportation systems, emergency response teams, medical personnel and crowd-management measures.
Meanwhile, health officials urged pilgrims to stay hydrated and limit direct exposure to sunlight as temperatures exceeded 45°C.
Pilgrims Move to Muzdalifah After Sunset
After sunset, pilgrims departed Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they combined and shortened Maghrib and Isha prayers.
They also prepared to spend the night in worship and rest before participating in the symbolic stoning ritual.
Day of Arafah Reflects Mercy and Spiritual Renewal
Islamic scholars describe the Day of Arafah as one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar. The occasion symbolizes mercy, forgiveness and spiritual renewal for millions of Muslims worldwide.
The day also commemorates the Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in A.D. 632, during which he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat and stressed justice, equality and the sanctity of human life and property.
