More than 1.5 million pilgrims from across the world, including over 65,000 Nigerian pilgrims, will today (Saturday), which is the 9th Dhul Hijjah, 1445 AH, converge on Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal Rahma, Mount of Mercy, as part of Hajj rites. They are to take their stand (wuquf) of faith before Allah, entreating their Creator for His mercies and forgiveness.
In fact, their lifetime spiritual journey started yesterday (Friday) with the Taraddudiyyah, that is moving out from the holy city of Makkah to the holy site of Mina, the Tent City, from where they will move to other holy sites, including Mount Arafat to perform the five-day Hajj rites.
Today holds a unique spiritual significance for not only the pilgrims but also the entire Muslim world, extending beyond the pilgrimage as it is used by Muslims worldwide to deeply engage in spiritual activities, including fasting for nonpilgrims. The day is regarded by the Muslim world as a day profound spiritual significance full of mercy and forgiveness.
For the pilgrims, standing at Mount Arafat, which is about five kilometers east of the Ka’abah in the Grand Mosques (Masjid Haram) in Makkah, is considered the peak of the holy pilgrimage. Mount Arafat is where Holy Prophet Muhammad delivered his last sermon, which has come to be known as the Farewell Sermon. The day serves as a reminder for the pilgrims, and indeed nonpilgrims, of unity of Islam, equality of mankind, humility and shared spiritual journey for them and the entire Muslim community worldwide.
Donning their white seamless dress known as Ihram, the pilgrims are expected to stay within vast plains of Arafat from sunrise, engaging in acts of worship, including seeking forgiveness and making supplications for their worldly affairs and hereafter. They are also to listen to sermon at the Masjid Namirah, located within the precinct of Arafat before they move to Muzdalifah, where they will pass the night, at sunset. There is no Hajj for any pilgrim unable to stand at Arafat.
I will pray for God to protect our country Nigeria and to keep peace and security and to expose those who has hands into the insecurity of this country and the Sabotage of the progress of this country in Nigeria ameen ya Allah
Mustapha ismail
best regards