Arafat, NU Online
Balanced and integrated spiritual movements based on monotheism and guidance of Allah will foster a sense of humanity and social sensitivity.<>

Monotheism and true worship must cultivate social welfare among people. At this point, the essence of Islam as rahmatan lil alamin (blessing for the entire universe).

Former general chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) KH Hasyim Muzadi made the remarks as he delivered the wukuf sermon to Indonesian pilgrims on 9 Dhulhijjah 1433 H, at Mt Arafah Thursday (25/10).

He said the social and ritual monotheism based on religious teachings will permanently continue to face the onslaught of satan which could be in the form of jinn and mankind. So men and women should continue to seek refuge in God.

Because, he said, the cunning of Satan was much larger and heavier than the human ability to deal with it. People endurance against the onslaught of satan is determined by the level of their closeness to God. Hablun minallah (worship) and hablun minannas (social interaction) as a reflection of worship and social behavior will form a specific Islamic character.

Every man has naturally been endowed by God's instruments to raise their humanity and dignity. However, the potential of the character is not complete without a touch of monotheism and worship and Islamic social norms.

Millions of haj pilgrims from all over the world converged at the Arafah plains for the “wukuf” (grand assembly), the pinnacle of the haj rituals.

Meanwhile, the haj pilgrims will perform the stoning of the devils on the 11th, 12th and 13th day of the Muslim month of Zulhijjah.

Writer : A Khoirul Anam
Editor : Sudarto Murtaufiq