You recite a verse which, if it had been revealed in relation to us, we would have taken that day as the day of rejoicing. Thereupon 'Umar said: I know where it was revealed and on the day when it was revealed and where Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) had been at that time when it was revealed. It was revealed on the day of 'Arafa (ninth of Dhu'l Hijjah) and Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) had been staying in 'Arafat. Sufyan said: I doubt, whether it was Friday or not (and the verse referred to) is this:" Today I have perfected your religion for you and completed My favours upon you" (v. 4).
The Book of Commentary on the Qur'an
Author: Sahih Muslim | Hadith Reference: Sahih Muslim 3017 a
Context of Revelation
This narration concerns the revelation of the momentous verse: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you" (Qur'an 5:3). The companions recognized the immense significance of this revelation, to the extent that they stated if it had been revealed concerning them specifically, they would have taken that day as an eternal day of celebration.
Historical Testimony
The esteemed companion 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) provided precise historical context. He testified that this verse was revealed on the Day of 'Arafah—the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah—while the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was stationed at 'Arafat during the Farewell Pilgrimage.
Scholarly Significance
This verse marks the completion of divine legislation. The perfection of religion signifies that the Shari'ah was now complete, with all necessary commandments and prohibitions having been revealed. The completion of Allah's favor refers to the blessing of Islam itself. The narration's chain through Sufyan includes a minor doubt about whether it was also a Friday, but the primary facts of location and occasion are firmly established.
Legal and Theological Implications
This revelation serves as definitive proof that no new religious obligations or prohibitions can be introduced after this point. The Islamic faith and law were rendered complete, requiring believers to adhere strictly to what was revealed without addition or subtraction. This event represents the culmination of prophethood and divine guidance to humanity.