TIMES MALAYSIA, JAKARTA – KH Abdul Moqsith Ghazali, Religious Advisor (Musytasyar Diny) for the Indonesian Hajj Mission in Saudi Arabia, emphasized the critical role of wukuf during a press conference on Friday, May 23, 2025. Speaking in the context of Hajj 2025, he reminded all pilgrims that wukuf in Arafah is an essential pillar of the pilgrimage.

The respected muslim leader also said that it must not be skipped under any circumstance. “The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that Hajj is Arafah,” he referring to a well-known hadith, showing how this moment defines the entire spiritual journey.

Because of its significance, all pilgrims must be present in Arafah on the 9th of Dzulhijjah, regardless of their physical condition. Even those who are ill or elderly are required to observe wukuf.

To accommodate them, the Indonesian Hajj Health Team (KKHI) implements a special initiative called Safari Wukuf, allowing those who are bedridden or very weak to still be brought to Arafah. This reflects how every effort is made during Hajj 2025 to ensure that no pilgrim is left behind in fulfilling this key obligation.

Arafah holds deep spiritual symbolism in Islam. KH Moqsith explained that the word Arafah comes from the Arabic root ‘arafa, meaning “to recognize” or “to know.” Islamic tradition teaches that it is the place where Prophet Adam and Eve were reunited after being separated for centuries.

It is also where the Angel Jibril (Gabriel) introduced the rites of Hajj to Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), asking, “Do you know?” to which Ibrahim replied, Araftu meaning I recognize. These stories contribute to the sacred atmosphere that surrounds Arafah.

Unlike other acts of worship that require movement or recitation, wukuf is a more reflective form of devotion. It begins after the sun passes its zenith on the 9th of Dzulhijjah and continues until dawn on the 10th.

Pilgrims fulfill wukuf by staying within the boundaries of Arafah, quietly praying, remembering Allah, and making heartfelt supplications. KH Moqsith emphasized that this is a time for spiritual connection, inner reflection, and sincere prayer.

Although Arafah lies outside the official boundary of Makkah, it remains one of the most sacred locations in the Hajj ritual. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that the best supplication is made on the Day of Arafah.

KH Moqsith encouraged pilgrims in Hajj 2025 to take full advantage of this spiritual window by praying with humility and sincerity. He also reminded pilgrims to include others in their prayers and avoid foul language, arguments, or commercial activities while in Arafah.

As a final reminder for Hajj 2025, KH Moqsith urged all pilgrims to remain inside their tents during the extreme heat, unless stepping out for urgent needs. After performing the congregational Dzuhur prayer and listening to the sermon, pilgrims should spend the rest of their time in devotion—praying, reciting the Qur’an, and engaging in dhikr to  make every moment count. (*)