After the conquest of Makkah and the subsequent events that solidified the establishment of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began preparing for a significant event that would mark a monumental moment in Islamic history: the Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajj). This pilgrimage was not only a spiritual journey but also a culmination of the Prophet’s (PBUH) mission, encapsulating the core principles of Islam and offering guidance for generations to come.
In the tenth year of Hijrah, the Prophet (PBUH) announced his intention to perform Hajj. The news spread rapidly, and thousands of Muslims from across the Arabian Peninsula flocked to join him. This pilgrimage was an opportunity for the Prophet (PBUH) to demonstrate the rituals of Hajj as prescribed by Allah, solidify the unity of the Muslim Ummah, and deliver his final address to the people.
The journey began from Madinah, where the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions donned the ihram, the simple white garments symbolizing purity, equality, and submission to Allah. As they made their way to Makkah, the atmosphere was charged with devotion and a sense of anticipation.
Upon reaching Makkah, the Prophet (PBUH) performed tawaf (circumambulation) around the Ka’bah and other prescribed rituals, demonstrating to the pilgrims the correct way to fulfill the obligations of Hajj. His actions and instructions were meticulous, leaving no ambiguity for future generations.
The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized that the Hajj was an act of worship solely dedicated to Allah. He dismantled remnants of pre-Islamic traditions and practices that contradicted the monotheistic teachings of Islam, further reinforcing the Ka’bah's sanctity as a house of pure worship.
On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, the Prophet (PBUH) stood at Mount Arafat, addressing over 100,000 Muslims who had gathered for this historic occasion. This congregation was a testament to the unity and strength of the Muslim community, which had grown exponentially since the Prophet (PBUH) first began his mission in Makkah.
Here, under the vast expanse of the desert sky, the Prophet (PBUH) delivered what is known as the Farewell Sermon.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) sermon at Arafat was not just a message to those present but a timeless charter for humanity. His words encapsulated the essence of Islam, addressing themes of justice, equality, and the sanctity of life and property.
The Prophet (PBUH) began by reminding the people of the importance of adhering to the Quran and Sunnah, emphasizing that these would serve as the ultimate guidance for the Ummah. He reiterated the equality of all humans, stating:
"All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab; a white person has no superiority over a black person, nor does a black person have superiority over a white person, except through piety and good action."
The Prophet (PBUH) condemned practices of the pre-Islamic era, such as usury (riba), tribal feuds, and exploitation, urging Muslims to uphold justice and compassion in their dealings. He declared that all forms of oppression and exploitation were abolished under Islam.
Addressing the sanctity of life and property, the Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Your lives, your property, and your honor are sacred to one another, as sacred as this day, this month, and this city."
In this monumental sermon, the Prophet (PBUH) also reminded Muslims of their obligations towards women, emphasizing kindness, respect, and mutual rights in marital relationships.
Finally, the Prophet (PBUH) asked the gathered crowd:
"Have I conveyed the message?"
The crowd unanimously responded, "Yes!" The Prophet (PBUH) then raised his hands and said:
"O Allah, bear witness!"
This moment marked the culmination of the Prophet’s (PBUH) mission, with his responsibility of conveying the message of Islam fulfilled.
During the sermon, the Prophet (PBUH) recited the following verse:
"This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion." (Al-Ma’idah 5:3)
This verse signified the completion of the revelation and the perfection of Islam as a way of life. It was a deeply emotional moment for many, as they realized that the Prophet’s (PBUH) mission was nearing its end.
After completing the Hajj rituals, the Prophet (PBUH) returned to Madinah. The journey back was filled with reflections on the remarkable transformation that had taken place in the Arabian Peninsula during his lifetime.
Upon returning, the Prophet (PBUH) resumed his responsibilities as the leader of the Muslim community. However, there was an underlying sense of finality, as he began preparing his followers for a time when he would no longer be among them.
