Words have played an important role in human history with many of us using them as our blueprint for life. Over 1400 years ago, the Prophet Muhammad PBUH made a speech on the plains of Arafat which is still relevant today. Being his final and farewell speech, pilgrims make it a point to peruse the words on the day of ‘Arafah to remind themselves of the power and meaning behind a comprehensive set of words.
For those of us at home, it’s ideal to examine the sermon whilst sharing the beautiful words with our families and friends. With it being the last time the Prophet PBUH addressed a mass of people, he chose his words wisely by incorporating everything a Muslim must know to lead a successful life. What’s more, the words are simple enough to understand and often require no interpretation or explanation.
The Final Sermon
This final sermon was delivered on the 9th Dhul Hijjah, 10AH in the ‘Urānah valley of Mount Arafat
After praising and thanking Allāh the Prophet PBUH said:
“O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year I shall ever be amongst you again.
Therefore, listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and TAKE THESE WORDS TO THOSE WHO COULD NOT BE PRENT HERE TODAY.
O people! Just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust.
Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners.
Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that HE will indeed reckon your deeds.
Allāh has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived.
Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.
O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. If they abide by your right, then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness.
Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with anyone of whom you do not approve, as well as never to commit adultery.
O people, listen to me in earnest. Worship Allāh, say your five daily prayers (Salāh), fast during the month of Ramadhān, and give your wealth in Zakāt. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.
You know that every Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. You are all equal. Indeed, there is no superiority of an Arab over a nonArab, nor of a non-Arab over an Arab, nor of a white over a black, nor a black over a white, except by piety and good action.
Remember, one day you will appear before Allāh and answer for your deeds. So, beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.
O People, no Prophet or Apostle will come after me and no new religion will be born. Reason well, therefore O People and understand my words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the Qur’ān and my example the Sunnah and if you follow these you will never go astray.
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O Allāh, that I have conveyed Your message to Your people.”
Main image -Ryan Pradita Putra, Unsplash
The adventurous spirit behind the pages of British Muslim magazine. As the Editor-in-Chief, Natasha leads with a passion for exploration and a pen dipped in wanderlust. With a keen eye for halal travel experiences and an insatiable curiosity for new experiences, she brings readers along on captivating journeys to far-flung destinations. Through her vibrant storytelling, Natasha invites readers on enriching adventures, where every experience is a window into the muslim world.
