What Hajjis Do While Spending the Night in Arafat and Why It’s Important

Understanding the Spiritual Importance of Arafat During Hajj

The Day of Arafat, falling on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, is considered the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage. While pilgrims do not technically spend the entire night in Arafat, their time there is so spiritually significant that it is often regarded as the heart of the Hajj. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Hajj is Arafah,” emphasizing its central role. Pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat from noon to sunset, engaging in intense worship, self-reflection, and prayer. This day is also known as the Day of Forgiveness, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and showers His mercy on His servants.

Daytime Worship Before the Night Journey to Muzdalifah

Pilgrims arrive in Arafat in the morning or just before noon and perform Zuhr and Asr prayers shortened and combined. They spend the afternoon in duas (supplications), reciting the Qur’an, and seeking forgiveness. This is not a time for casual conversations or distractions; instead, pilgrims focus on their relationship with Allah. Standing at the Mount of Mercy (Jabal al-Rahmah), where the Prophet (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon, is a symbolic and spiritually uplifting moment. Though the physical stay in Arafat ends at sunset, its impact continues into the night as pilgrims move to the next phase of Hajj.

Moving from Arafat to Muzdalifah at Sunset

At Maghrib (sunset), pilgrims begin their journey from Arafat to Muzdalifah, an open area between Arafat and Mina. This movement is done calmly and in remembrance of Allah. Though pilgrims do not spend the actual night in Arafat, their evening and overnight worship continue at Muzdalifah. Here, they offer the Maghrib and Isha prayers combined, rest under the open sky, and collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil (Ramy al-Jamarat) in the following days. This act is a reminder of simplicity, humility, and patience—core values that Hajj teaches every pilgrim.

The Role of Supplication and Reflection in Arafat

During their time in Arafat, pilgrims experience an emotional high. It’s a moment for deep self-reflection and sincere repentance. Many bring lists of personal and communal prayers, praying not just for themselves but for family, friends, and the global Muslim community. The emotional atmosphere is often intense, with many moved to tears. This period of supplication is a way of cleansing the soul, seeking Allah’s mercy, and committing to live a better life. It’s a spiritual reset that many Hajjis remember for the rest of their lives.

Preparation for the Next Rituals After Leaving Arafat

As the time in Arafat comes to a close, pilgrims mentally and physically prepare for the next rites of Hajj. They gather their belongings, ensure they have enough water, and prepare for the walk or bus ride to Muzdalifah. Although the night isn't technically spent in Arafat, the impact of that day lingers, shaping the pilgrim’s mindset for the challenges ahead—stoning the Jamarat, offering sacrifice, and performing the Tawaf al-Ifadah. The lessons learned and the spirituality gained in Arafat become guiding lights for the remainder of the pilgrimage and, more importantly, for life after Hajj. Many people want to go for umrah and they don't have umrah package by bus from Dubai, a consultant with alumrah.ae.