Day of Arafah: Which is Better, Supplication or Reading the Quran?
Discover whether supplication or reciting the Quran is better on the Day of Arafah, and how scholars explain balancing acts of worship on this great day.
The Virtue of the Day of Arafah and the Importance of Acts of Worship on It
The Day of Arafah is one of the greatest days ordained by Allah, in which mercy descends, supplications are answered, and the servant turns to his Lord with a humble and hopeful heart seeking forgiveness. On this blessed day, many people wonder about the best acts of worship: is it supplication or recitation of the Holy Quran?
How do we balance acts of worship on the Day of Arafah?
Dr. Ali Gomaa explained that the criterion of superiority between acts of worship is not absolute, but rather depends on the state of the heart and spiritual presence. Some people may find their humility in:
- supplication and earnest pleading
- seeking forgiveness
- sending blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ
- recitation of the Holy Quran
The true measure is: whatever brings presence of heart and humility is best for the person at that moment.
Is there one act of worship that is absolutely best on the Day of Arafah?
Acts of worship vary according to the person’s state
Scholars see acts of worship not as competing, but as complementary:
- Allah may open one person’s heart to supplication
- another’s to Quran recitation
- and another’s to remembrance of Allah or prayer
Scholars’ view on preference between Quran and remembrance
The Quran is generally superior to remembrance
Scholars agreed that reciting the Quran, in general, is the best verbal act of worship.
But remembrance (dhikr) may sometimes take precedence
Such as:
- after obligatory prayers
- during the call to prayer
- in times where dhikr is specifically recommended
In these cases, remembrance becomes better than recitation.
Reciting from the Mushaf or from memory?
Dr. Ahmed Mamdouh explained that preference depends on the individual’s condition and ability to continue.
General principle
The best act is whatever helps a person increase in worship.
Details
- Reading from the Mushaf combines recitation and looking at the text
- Recitation from memory may help increase the amount of recitation
- The virtue depends on what achieves humility and consistency
Conclusion
On the Day of Arafah, there is no single act that is absolutely best for everyone. Rather, it depends on the state of the heart. The best act is whatever moves the soul and brings a person closer to Allah, whether it is supplication, Quran recitation, or remembrance — all are open doors of mercy on this عظیم day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better on the Day of Arafah: supplication or the Quran?
The best is whatever is performed with sincere presence of heart and humility.
Is there one specific act that is absolutely best on Arafah?
No, it differs according to each person’s heart and condition.
Is reciting the Quran better than remembrance?
Yes in general, but remembrance may be better in certain situations.
Which is better: from the Mushaf or from memory?
Whatever helps a person increase recitation and attain greater humility.
What is the most important deed on the Day of Arafah?
Supplication, frequent remembrance of Allah, and engaging in all forms of obedience.
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