Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
In this fatwa:
Yes, collective Du’a (supplication) on the Day of ʿArafah is allowed. It encourages communal devotion but isn’t a mandatory ritual. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made Du’a with his companions, setting a flexible example for group prayers.
Responding to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
Yes, collective Du’a (supplication) on the Day of `Arafah is allowed. It encourages communal devotion but isn’t a mandatory ritual. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made Du’a with his companions, setting a flexible example for group prayers.
While group Du’a is permitted, it should avoid rigid formats or repetitive phrases that may overshadow personal devotion. The Day of `Arafah focuses on personal reflection, repentance, and a direct connection with Allah. Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah support group Du’a when it enhances, not replaces, individual sincerity. The heart of Du’a is sincerity and genuine submission, regardless of the language one uses.
For those not on pilgrimage, any heartfelt prayer is welcome. Some beloved ones include:
- “La ilaha illa Allah, wahdahu la sharika lah, lahu al-mulku wa lahu al-hamd, wa huwa ʿala kulli shay’in qadir.” (No god but Allah alone, without partner. His is the dominion and praise, and He is capable of all things.)
- “Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuhibbu al-`afwa fa`fu `anni.” (O Allah, You are Most Forgiving and love to forgive—so forgive me.)
In summary, collective du’a on `Arafah can enhance spiritual unity. However, it should not overshadow the main purpose of the day: a deep, personal turning to Allah. When approached with sincerity and balance, it brings one closer to Him.
Read also:
- Significance of Day of Arafah: Key Islamic Virtues
- Should Pilgrims Fast on the Day of Arafah?
- Etiquette of Standing and Supplication on Day of Arafah
- When Should Pilgrims Return from Arafah?
- Can You Fast `Arafah If You Have Days to Make Up?
Almighty Allah knows best.