Can You Skip Fasting on Arafah if Not Performing Hajj?

Question

Is fasting on the Day of Arafah obligatory?

Bottom Line

Fasting on the Day of Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) is one of the best voluntary acts for non-pilgrims. It is highly recommended but not obligatory.

Quick Answer

The Prophet ﷺ said fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the past and the coming year. Scholars agree it is a Sunnah fast, not fard. Non-pilgrims are encouraged to fast to share in the blessings of Hajj, while pilgrims focus on du’a and standing at Arafah instead.

Key Takeaways

• Fasting on Arafah wipes out the sins of the previous and following year (Muslim 1162).
• It is Sunnah mu’akkadah (highly recommended), not an obligation.
• Non-pilgrims should fast, while pilgrims at Arafah are exempt to preserve their strength.

Detailed Answer

The Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, is among the most sacred days in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”Sahih Muslim 1162

This makes fasting on Arafah one of the greatest voluntary fasts, offering immense forgiveness. However, it is mustahabb (recommended), not wajib (obligatory).

Missing it carries no sin, though it is a missed opportunity for tremendous reward.

For non-pilgrims, fasting links them spiritually to the sacred rites of Hajj. Pilgrims, however, are advised not to fast, as their focus is on standing at Arafah, dhikr, and du’a.

What This Means for You

If you are not performing Hajj, fasting on Arafah is one of the best deeds you can do. It is voluntary, not fard, but brings immense mercy and forgiveness.

And Allah knows best.

References

Primary Sources

Hadith

1. Sahih Muslim 1162: Fasting in Arafah expiates the sins of two years.

Secondary Sources

2. Ibn Qudamah, al-Mughni: Ruling on voluntary fasts and Arafah.
3. Al-Nawawi, Sharh Muslim: Explanation of the hadith on fasting in Arafah.