خَيْرُ الدُّعَاءِ يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ، وَخَيْرُ مَا قُلْتُ أَنَا وَالنَّبِيُّونَ مِنْ قَبْلِي: سُبْحَانَ اللهِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ.
The best of supplication is on the Day of Arafah, and the best of what I and the Prophets before me have said is: Glory be to Allah and all praise is due to Him.
Khayrud du'a'i yawma 'Arafata, wa khayru ma qultu ana wan-nabiyyoona min qabli: Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi.
When to Read
The Night of Arafah (which is the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah) and the Day of Arafah itself. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ specified 'the Day of Arafah', which encompasses both the evening preceding it and the day itself, as a time of immense spiritual opportunity for supplication.
How to Read
This hadith highlights the *quality* of dua on Arafah. While it provides a specific, profound statement ('Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi'), it also indicates that *all* supplication is particularly potent during this time. Therefore, you should engage in earnest dua, reciting this Tasbih as much as possible, and also supplicate for your worldly and otherworldly needs. Maintain sincerity, humility, and certainty in Allah's response. Turn towards the Qiblah, raise your hands (if feasible and comfortable), and pour your heart out to your Creator. The focus is on deep, heartfelt invocation.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ declared this period as having the 'best of supplication'. This means Allah, the Almighty, is exceptionally receptive to the prayers made during Arafah. Reciting 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi' (Glory be to Allah and all praise is due to Him) is highlighted as the pinnacle of what prophets have said, signifying its immense virtue. It's a concise yet comprehensive statement glorifying Allah, acknowledging His perfection, and expressing gratitude. This opportunity is so significant that it surpasses even the duas made on other blessed nights like Laylat al-Qadr in this specific aspect.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of supplication is the supplication of the Day of Arafah, and the best of what I and the Prophets before me have said is: Glory be to Allah, and I praise Him.' (Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3585). Another narration states: 'On the Day of Arafah, Allah, the Most High, descends to the nearest heaven, and He boasts of His servants to the angels, saying: Look at My servants, they have come to Me disheveled and dusty.' (Sahih Ibn Hibban 3634, graded Sahih by Shu'ayb Al-Arna'ut)