Arafat, June 5, 2025 (9 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446H) — As part of its continuing efforts to raise pilgrims' religious awareness, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Da'wah and Guidance organised a special awareness lecture at Masjid Al-Khaif in Mina titled "The Virtues of the Day of Arafah," delivered after Maghrib prayer, as part of a series of outreach activities the ministry is carrying out during this year's Hajj season 1446H.

The lecture was delivered by Sheikh Dr. Ahmed bin Hamad Al-Wunais, a faculty member at Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, who spoke at length about the status of the Day of Arafah in Islam and the virtues that God has singled out for it, noting that it is a day on which mercy descends, sins are forgiven, souls are freed from the Fire, and prayers are answered, and a day that brings together the pillars of faith and good deeds — remembrance, standing in worship, supplication and humility.

Sheikh Al-Wunais cited Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions that highlight the merit of this great day, affirming that a pilgrim's appreciation of the greatness of the Day of Arafah motivates them to increase their worship and make the most of the day through sincere supplication, seeking forgiveness, and good deeds.

The lecture and the wider outreach programme aim to spread correct religious awareness among pilgrims; explain the rulings and etiquette related to the rites; instil concepts of moderation; and elevate the rites while connecting pilgrims to their spiritual values.

The activity forms part of the ministry's comprehensive outreach programme delivered at multiple sites during Hajj season, aiming to educate pilgrims, ease their understanding of the rites, and connect them with the approach of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah, achieving the Kingdom's mission of religious leadership and serving pilgrims intellectually and spiritually.