Arafa

Arafa (Arabic: عَرَفَة) is the ninth day of Zual-Hijja, the last month of Lunar calendar, and the day before Eid al-Adha. According to Shi'a jurisprudence pilgrims of Hajj must stay in Arafat from the noon to sunset of this day. The day of Arafa is one of the most important days of year for Muslims. Special rituals have been reported for this day in hadiths, the best of which is praying and asking for forgiveness; most of Shi'as recite the Supplication of Arafa by Imam Hussain (PBUH) in the day. According to Shi'a, performing Ziyara of Imam Hussain (PBUH) is recommended on this day.

Supplication of Arafa by Imam Hussain (PBUH)

The supplication of Arafa by Imam Hussain (PBUH) is one of Shi'a supplications which was composed and recited by Imam Hussain (PBUH) on the Day of Arafa in the desert of Arafat. The du'a is usually recited by Shi'a on the same day. This supplication contains some of the highest theological and spiritual teachings. Considering its valuable content, Shi'a scholars and narrators deem the supplication as being reported from Imam Hussain (PBUH). Because of its importance and significant position among Shi'a, some scholars have written translations and expositions for it.

In some Islamic countries like: Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan this supplication is recited in groups. Sometimes, especially during Hajj period and in the desert of Arafat, thousands of people recite this supplication together.

Content:

The supplication of Arafa by Imam Hussain (PBUH) comprises of different teachings, some of the most important main topics include:

Knowing God and counting divine attributes, reestablishing the covenant with God. Knowing the Prophets and renewing the spiritual relation with them. Remembering the Day of Judgment and expressing the beliefs in the heart.

Reflecting on and remembering limitless bounties given by God to human beings and thanking and praising God for them.

Expressing humility and confessing to the sins, making repentance and return from them, asking for forgiveness, and a move toward acquiring praised virtues and good deeds.

Making different requests which start by sending salutation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his pure progeny and then asking for forgiveness, the light of guidance, mercy, blessings, abundant Rizq, reward in the hereafter, etc.