‘A’isha reported God’s messenger as saying, “There is no day when God sets free more servants from hell than the day of ‘Arafa. He draws near, then praises them (Literally, ‘boasts of them.’) to the angels saying, ‘What do these want ?”’(The reference is probably to their undertaking the vicissitudes of the Pilgrimage)Muslim transmitted it.
The Rites of Pilgrimage - Mishkat al-Masabih 2594
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim, transmitted by the Mother of the Believers 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), reveals the immense divine mercy manifested on the Day of 'Arafah. The 9th of Dhul-Hijjah represents the pinnacle of Hajj, when pilgrims stand in devoted supplication on the plain of 'Arafat.
The phrase "God sets free more servants from hell" indicates that divine forgiveness reaches its zenith on this blessed day. Classical scholars explain that this emancipation encompasses both pilgrims and non-pilgrims, demonstrating Allah's all-encompassing mercy. The divine drawing near (al-muqarabah) is understood by the scholars as a special manifestation of divine proximity and responsiveness to supplication, not in physical terms but through acceptance and mercy.
Allah's "boasting" to the angels about His servants reflects the honored status of those who respond to His call. The rhetorical question "What do these want?" highlights that their ultimate desire is Allah's pleasure and forgiveness, which He generously grants. This divine discourse exemplifies Allah's magnanimity and love for those who strive in His path.
The scholars emphasize that this hadith should inspire increased devotion, sincere repentance, and abundant supplication on the Day of 'Arafah, whether one is performing Hajj or not. It serves as a powerful reminder of Allah's boundless mercy and the elevated status of those who sincerely seek His forgiveness.