Arafat gathering is held on__________?

The correct answer is 9 Zil hajj.

The gathering at the plain of Arafat, known as Wuquf-e-Arafat, occurs on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah (Zil hajj), the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This day is the spiritual peak of the Hajj pilgrimage. According to Islamic law and tradition, the presence of the pilgrim at Arafat during the prescribed time—from the decline of the sun (Zawal) until sunset on this specific date—is the absolute essential element of the entire pilgrimage. The importance of this gathering is so central that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) famously declared, "Hajj is Arafah," signifying that if a pilgrim fails to reach the plains on this day, their Hajj is considered incomplete and cannot be compensated for by any other sacrifice.

The Historical Farewell Sermon

The significance of the 9th of Zil hajj is inextricably linked to the events of the year 10 AH (632 CE). On this day, during the Hajjat-ul-Wida (the Farewell Pilgrimage), the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stood on the granite hills of Jabal al-Rahmah (the Mount of Mercy) and delivered a sermon that would define the social and ethical framework of Islam for centuries to come.

In this historic address, the Prophet (PBUH) abolished the remnants of the pre-Islamic era of ignorance. He emphasized the sanctity of life and property, the rights of women, and famously declared that no Arab has superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a white person have superiority over a black person, except through piety and good action. This gathering on the 9th of Zil hajj serves as an annual renewal of this covenant of human equality.

Ancient Roots: Adam and Hawwa

Beyond the events of the 7th century, Islamic tradition traces the history of the plain of Arafat back to the very beginning of human existence. It is traditionally believed that after Prophet Adam and Hawwa (Eve) were sent down to Earth from Heaven, they spent years wandering and searching for one another. They eventually reunited and recognized each other on this very plain. The name "Arafat" is derived from the Arabic root word ‘arafa, meaning "to know" or "to recognize," memorializing this first human reunion. Thus, for millions of pilgrims, standing on this ground on the 9th of Zil hajj is a symbolic return to the roots of humanity.

Ritual and Revelation

On the morning of the 9th, pilgrims move from the city of Mina toward Arafat. The day is spent in Wuquf (standing), which is a time for deep contemplation, intense prayer, and seeking forgiveness. This ritual is often described as a "rehearsal" for the Day of Judgment, as millions of people from diverse backgrounds stand together in identical white clothes, stripped of all worldly status.

Historically, this day also marks the completion of the Islamic faith. It was on the afternoon of the 9th of Zil hajj, during the Farewell Pilgrimage, that the final verse of the Quran concerning the perfection of the religion was revealed: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you..." (Surah Al-Ma'idah, 5:3). This revelation confirmed that the message brought by the Prophet (PBUH) was now complete, making the date a milestone of immense theological weight.