Salam alaykum everyone, yes Ramadan dinners is back slightly earlier than usual! I have a few fasts to make up so have decided to blog the days that I make up : )
Only a few days ago I was perusing a random non Islamic forum saw a post which went something along the lines of “ I’m thinking of fasting on the day of Arafat, is anyone else doing it this year?” Now I’d like to think on myself as a fairly informed person, however this came as totally new information to me. I have to say that I was quite shocked and almost panicked to discover that people did fast on this day, especially considering the fact that Hajjis (those performing Hajj) do not fast. Well a little digging and well lots of help from a very kind friend made things clearer for me. Firstly the statement, Hajjis do not fast remains, however they may do so should they wish to. However, for the non Hajjis, obviously in anywhere other than Arafat, then this seems like a great opportunity to obtain extra reward insh’Allah. The reward to received insh’Allah is fairly substantial (see below). It is also worth noting that fasting on the day of Arafat is not mandatory like in Ramadan but is recommended (mustahab). The day of Arafat this year is on Monday 15th November!
It was reported from Abu Qutaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about fasting on the Day of Arafaah. He said, 'It expiates for the sins of the previous year and of the coming year.' Narrated by Muslim.
In Saheeh Muslim it was narrated from Aa'ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'There is no day on which Allaah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafaah. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels, saying, 'What do these people want?'
Insh’Allah there should be a few more posts over the next few weeks.
