Hujaaj have left their worldly possessions behind as they participate in the Day of Wuquf. The plains of Arafat bear testament to the wealth of Duahs (prayers) and sincerity pouring from pilgrims as they reach the pinnacle of the Hajj. 

Professor Aslam Fataar, who embarked on the holy journey last year, has told Radio 786 of the spiritual weight that millions of Hujaaj experience during this time. He explains that even though there are throngs of people gathering for the same purpose, the experience is a personal one. It is on the plains of Arafat that Hujaaj are fully aware of their shortcomings and plead with Allah (SWT) for forgiveness.  

Fataar notes the significance of millions reciting the same Duah of repentance made by Nabi Adam (AS) and Hawa (AS) when they were sent to Earth. He contends that this connects all Muslims on Jabal Rahmah (Mount of Mercy) to that same recognition of Allah’s (SWT) might and mercy. 

The Day of Arafat is preceded by several other rituals that put Hujaaj in the ideal spiritual, mental and physical state to engage with their Creator in this most personal way. The donning of the Ihram, which is the same clothes Muslims will be buried in, is yet another reminder of the value and purpose of life.  

When they leave the plains of Arafat, Hujaaj head to Muzdalifah to collect 49 pebbles meant for the ritual of stoning the devil in Mina. Many believe that while this replicates the action of Nabi Ibrahim (AS), it also expresses the battle that Hujaaj must endure to overcome their internal flaws that may taint the purity of their faith.   

Once the pilgrim has completed his or her holy journey, they are spiritually reborn. Thereafter, it is their duty to maintain a certain level of Taqwa (God consciousness). Fataar says that the intensity of the Hajj is experienced while performing the pilgrimage, but the true test is maintaining and remembering the lessons of that journey.