Millions Perform Waqf-e-Arafat Ritual During Hajj Today

On Thursday, June 5, 2025, millions of Muslims from around the world, including over 115,000 from Pakistan, gathered at the plains of Arafat to observe Wuquf-e-Arafat, the most significant rite of the Hajj pilgrimage. This spiritual gathering marks the climax of the Hajj, where pilgrims stand in earnest supplication, seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah.

• Date Observed: Thursday, June 5, 2025 (9th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrim Attendance: Over 115,000 Pakistani pilgrims participated

• Location: Plains of Arafat, near Mecca, Saudi Arabia

• Significance: Considered the spiritual pinnacle of Hajj

Wuquf-e-Arafat, or the "Standing at Arafat," is a fundamental component of Hajj. Pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon, to engage in deep reflection, prayer, and supplication. This act symbolizes the culmination of the pilgrim's spiritual journey, emphasizing humility, repentance, and unity among Muslims.

At Masjid Namira, located at the edge of Arafat, the Hajj sermon is delivered, addressing the gathered pilgrims. The sermon underscores the principles of Islam, the importance of unity, and the significance of the Hajj rituals. Following the sermon, pilgrims perform combined Zuhr and Asr prayers, marking a collective moment of devotion.

As the sun sets, signaling the end of Wuquf-e-Arafat, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah without performing the Maghrib prayer. Upon arrival, they combine Maghrib and Isha prayers and spend the night under the open sky. During this time, pilgrims collect pebbles for the upcoming ritual of Ramy al-Jamarat (stoning of the devil).

On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims return to Mina to perform Ramy al-Jamarat, where they throw seven pebbles at the largest pillar (Jamrat al-Aqaba), symbolizing the rejection of evil. This act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (AS) defiance of Satan's temptations.

• 11th Dhul-Hijjah: Pilgrims perform Ramy by throwing seven pebbles at each of the three pillars (Jamrat al-Ula, Jamrat al-Wusta, and Jamrat al-Aqaba).

• 12th Dhul-Hijjah: The stoning ritual is repeated. Pilgrims who wish to stay an additional day in Mina may perform the final stoning on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

• Tawaf al-Ziyarah: Pilgrims return to Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah, an essential rite signifying their devotion and submission to Allah.

• Tawaf al-Wida: Before departing Mecca, pilgrims perform the farewell circumambulation, bidding adieu to the sacred city.

The observance of Wuquf-e-Arafat stands as a testament to the unity and devotion of the Muslim Ummah. As pilgrims continue their sacred journey through the remaining rituals of Hajj, they embody the principles of faith, sacrifice, and communal harmony. The culmination of these rites not only fulfills a religious obligation but also reinforces the spiritual bonds that connect Muslims worldwide.