Arafah, also known as Arafat Day, is a significant day during the Hajj pilgrimage, where millions of devoted pilgrims gather at Maidan e Arafat to engage in the profound act of Wuquf, which involves standing in prayer from Zuhr until Maghrib.
During this momentous occasion, the Imam of Hajj, appointed by the King of Saudi Arabia, delivers the Arafat Day Sermon, known as Khutba e Hajj, in Masjid e Nimra, situated in Arafat, Mecca.
Who will Deliver Arafah Day 2024 Sermon In Masjid Namirah
The Hajj Sermon on the day of Arafah is one of the most iconic events of the Islamic year.
So, naturally delivering the Hajj Khutbah is a huge honor for anyone chosen for this task.
By Islamic law, the Hajj Sermon should be delivered by the King or someone directly appointed by him.
Every year, the Saudi King appoints an eminent scholar of Islam to deliver the Araft Khutbah.
This year, Sheikh Dr Yousuf Bin Muhammad Bin Saeed has been appointed to deliver the Hajj 2024 Khutbah in Masjid e Namirah, in Arafat.
Watch Khutba e Hajj 2024 Live From Arafat Saudi Arabia
You can watch the Hajj Sermon 2024 Live from Nimra Masjid, Arafat, in the video player below.
What Happens In The Hajj Sermon On Arafat Day
In the early hours of the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, thousands of pilgrims make their way to the Nimra Mosque to attend the Hajj Khutba. It is worth noting that Nimra Masjid has the capacity to accommodate 400,000 worshippers. However, given the immense number of pilgrims, which ranges from approximately 3 to 4 million during Hajj, it becomes logistically impossible for everyone to fit within the mosque’s premises.
Consequently, the majority of pilgrims opt to listen to the Hajj Khutba through alternative means, such as radio broadcasts or live streaming services.
The significance of this sermon is profound, as it is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, and its content is covered by various news outlets, magazines, websites, and social media platforms.
Inspired by Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ final sermon, the Hajj Khutba primarily focuses on reminding Muslims across the globe about their duties as servants of Allah SWT. It emphasizes the importance of unity among the Muslim Ummah and underscores the need for collective efforts to address the challenges faced by Muslims on the global stage.
While the Hajj Khutba is delivered in Arabic, recognizing the diversity of the pilgrims attending, it is subsequently translated into 14 different languages. These translations allow pilgrims from various linguistic backgrounds to understand and connect with the profound messages being conveyed. The translated languages include English, Urdu, French, Malay, Persian, Russian, Chinese, Bengali, Turkish, and Hausa, among others.
Furthermore, the translation of the Hajj Khutba into multiple languages serves as a testament to the inclusivity and accessibility of the pilgrimage experience. It allows pilgrims from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds to fully engage with the spiritual teachings and guidance imparted during this significant event.
The availability of translations enables pilgrims to connect with the core messages of the Khutba, regardless of their proficiency in Arabic. It fosters a sense of unity and shared understanding among the global Muslim community, reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that transcend linguistic barriers.
The widespread coverage and dissemination of the Hajj Khutba extend beyond the immediate pilgrim community. The messages conveyed by the Imam during this sermon reverberate through various media channels, reaching Muslims worldwide. News outlets, both traditional and digital, dedicate coverage to the event, ensuring that the teachings and reminders shared on this sacred occasion reach a broader audience.
Magazines and websites also play a significant role in sharing the contents of the Hajj Khutba with those unable to attend in person. Articles, summaries, and key takeaways from the sermon are published and made accessible, allowing Muslims around the globe to benefit from the spiritual insights and guidance provided during this momentous gathering.
In the age of social media, the impact and reach of the Hajj Khutba are amplified even further. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube become channels through which snippets, quotes, and recordings from the sermon are shared extensively. Muslims from every corner of the world can engage in discussions, share reflections, and connect with others who have been touched by the words of the Imam.
The enduring significance of the Hajj Khutba lies in its ability to transcend physical boundaries and resonate with Muslims on a global scale. It serves as a unifying force, reminding believers of their shared purpose and responsibility as followers of Islam. The availability of translations and the widespread coverage of the sermon ensure that its profound impact extends far beyond the confines of the Arafat gathering, touching the hearts and minds of Muslims everywhere, regardless of their geographical location or linguistic background.