"There is no day on which Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, frees more of his slaves, male and female, from the fire, than the day of Arafah. He comes close, then he boasts to the angels about them and say: 'What do these people want?'" (Sahih)Abdu Abdur-Rhamn (An-Nasai) said: It appears that Yunus bin Yusuf is the one who reported it from Malik and Allah, most High, Knows best.
The Book of Hajj - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 3003
Textual Analysis
This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of the Day of Arafah, which occurs on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) informs us that no day surpasses it in terms of divine mercy and emancipation from Hellfire.
Divine Proximity and Boasting
Allah's "coming close" signifies His special manifestation of mercy, generosity, and acceptance of supplications. His "boasting" to the angels demonstrates His love and honor for His obedient servants, much like a proud host honors esteemed guests.
Spiritual Significance
The rhetorical question "What do these people want?" indicates that Allah will grant the pilgrims whatever righteous desires they seek - forgiveness, paradise, and divine pleasure. This reflects the comprehensive nature of acceptance on this blessed day.
Juridical Implications
Scholars derive from this hadith the emphasized recommendation of fasting on the Day of Arafah for non-pilgrims, and the importance of abundant supplication for pilgrims standing at Arafah, as these acts are means to attain this great emancipation.
Chain of Transmission Note
As noted by Abdur-Rahman an-Nasa'i, the primary narrator Yunus bin Yusuf reported this from Imam Malik. This identification assists scholars in verifying the authenticity and understanding the transmission path of this blessed narration.