Arafah Fasting: Intention, Arabic and Latin Script Texts, and the Profound Wisdom Behind the Recommendation

There are numerous hadiths detailing the virtues of the Day of Arafah, with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasising that the pinnacle of Hajj is the Day of Arafah, as stated in the following hadith:

الْحَجُّ عَرَفَةُ

“Hajj is Arafah.” (Tirmidzi)

In the book Nihayah az-Zain by Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani (d. 1316 H), it is explained that fasting on this day is highly recommended for those not performing Hajj. However, pilgrims are advised against fasting to preserve their physical strength for the rituals of standing at Arafat, dhikr, and supplication.

وَصَوْمُهُ لِلْحَاجِّ خِلَافُ الْأَوْلَى

“Fasting on the Day of Arafah for pilgrims is considered ‘khilaf al-aula’ (less preferable).” (Nihayah az-Zain Fi Irsyad al-Mubtadiin [Beirut: Dar al-Fikr], vol 1, p. 195)

The intention (niat) for fasting on Arafah is as follows:

نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ سُنَّةً لِلّٰهِ تَعَالَى

Nawaitu shauma ’arafata sunnatan lillahi Ta’ala.

Meaning: “I intend to fast on Arafah as a sunnah for Allah Almighty.”

This intention is made from the night after sunset until before dawn, consistent with standard fasting practices.