Perhaps you’ve heard of the Day of Arafah. Our story today unfolds at Jabal ar Raqid. It is also known as the Mountain of Mercy. This place marks a pivotal point for those undertaking the Hajj.
Jabal ar Raqid is not just any hill. It is a granodiorite hill. It rises about 70 meters. Its highest point reaches 454 meters above sea level. It lies about 20 kilometers southeast of Mecca.
Before his divine calling, the Prophet Muhammad broke with tradition. He stood at Jabal ar Raqid with other Arabs. This act surprised his fellow Qurayshite Jubair bin Mut’im. He questioned the Prophet’s presence there.
Islamic tradition says that the Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon here. This sermon known as Khutbat al-Wada. He spoke to his companions near the end of his life. Some believe Adam and Eve reunited here after their fall from Heaven. They were forgiven here. This is why it is called the Mountain of Mercy. A pillar stands atop the mountain to mark this event.
Jabal ar Raqid is especially important during Hajj. The ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah is named after it. Pilgrims journey from Mina to Arafat on this day. This day is the most important day of Hajj. The sermon is delivered. Pilgrims pray Dhuhr and Asr prayers together in the valley. They spend the entire day invoking Allah. They seek forgiveness for their sins.
Geologically, Jabal ar Raqid is granodiorite rock. It contains feldspar, quartz, and muscovite. A 2012 study examined its geology and thermal history. It also checked for radiological hazards. The study found the rock to be about 9.13 million years old. It also found that radioactivity levels pose no health hazard.
Arafat rituals conclude at sunset. Pilgrims then proceed to Muzdalifah. They pray Maghrib and a shortened Isha prayer. They take a short rest.
The area around Jabal ar Raqid is called the Plain of Arafat. Sometimes, the term Mount Arafat refers to this entire area. During Hajj, pilgrims spend the afternoon here on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah. Being present in the Plain of Arafat on this day is essential. Without it, the pilgrimage is invalid. Since 2010, the Mecca Metro serves this area. Usually, it would be about 21 kilometers to walk.
In literature, James Joyce referenced the hill in his novel Finnegans Wake.
So, as you stand here, remember the history. Remember the traditions. Remember the faith that converges on this sacred place each year. Jabal ar Raqid is more than just a hill. It is a symbol of mercy, forgiveness, and unity.