In the heart of Dhul-Hijjah, as the sacred days reach their climax, Yawm at-Tarwiyah quietly approaches. It is the 8th day of the month, often overshadowed by the drama of ‘Arafah and the celebration of Eid but make no mistake this is a day of deep spiritual significance.
Yawm at-Tarwiyah is not just about logistical readiness for Hajj. It is about something more intimate, more internal: preparing the heart to meet Allah.
Yawm at-Tarwiyah was the day when pilgrims would prepare themselves for Hajj. They would leave Makkah and head toward Mina, beginning the actual rituals of the pilgrimage.
The name "Tarwiyah" comes from the Arabic root "rawa" meaning to drink, contemplate, or prepare. In earlier times, pilgrims would stock up on water in Mina in anticipation of the long and demanding days ahead. But beyond the physical act, it became known as the day of spiritual pondering and readiness.
هذا هو اليوم الذي كان فيه النبي ﷺ وأصحابه يبدؤون رحلتهم من مكة إلى منى، معلنين بداية أعمال الحج.
(رواه البخاري ومسلم في مناسك الحج)
“This is the day the Prophet ﷺ and his companions would begin their journey from Makkah to Mina, starting the acts of Hajj.” (Bukhari and Muslim on the rites of Hajj)
Today, while most of us are not making the journey to Mina physically, we are all on a journey spiritually. And like those pilgrims of old, we must pause and prepare not with water and tents, but with intention, repentance, and renewed faith.
Yawm at-Tarwiyah also connects us to the powerful legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Scholars mention that it was on this day that he began to contemplate the dream commanding him to sacrifice his son. He spent the day reflecting, pondering whether it was truly a command from Allah.
Hence, the name Tarwiyah pondering, deliberation.
By the next day Arafah his resolve was clear. By Eid, the act was done.
This teaches us a powerful lesson that even the Prophets took time to prepare their hearts before action.
In conclusion, Yawm at-Tarwiyah reminds us that great acts of worship are never rushed into. They are preceded by reflection, sincerity, and mental readiness.