The Day of Tarwiyah: A Journey of Intention, Water, and Worship

The Day of Tarwiyah: A Journey of Intention, Water, and Worship

As pilgrims don their white garments and set out from Makkah to Mina on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, they mark the Day of Tarwiyah-a sacred day steeped in spiritual symbolism and rich Islamic history.

Derived from the Arabic word rawa, meaning "to quench thirst", Tarwiyah literally translates to “watering” or “provisioning with water.” In olden times, there weren’t any modern facilities established between Arafah and Muzdalifah, and getting water for the pilgrims was difficult on the plains that are dry and barren, even today. It is because of this scarcity, that the pilgrims were instructed to prepare for this long day and night by feeding their animals and ensuring that their camels were well prepared for the long journey ahead. The pilgrims would fetch water sufficient enough to prepare for this soul stirring journey called ‘Hajj’ and filled their containers accordingly.  It is for this reason the day was given the name Yawm at-Tarwiyah or “the day of fetching water and quenching thirst.”

In today’s world, this symbolism strikes a deeper chord than ever before. Hajj 2025 is expected to be the hottest on record, with temperatures soaring past 50°C (122°F). As millions gather in submission to Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى, enduring the blazing sun and harsh desert conditions, the symbolism of thirst and water becomes not only metaphorical-but painfully real.

The Legacy of Tarwiyah: A Day of Intention and Devotion

The Day of Tarwiyah is when pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram with the niyyah (intention) of performing Hajj. They begin their journey from Makkah to Mina, spending the day and night in prayer, supplication, and reflection. This day is a prelude to the Day of Arafah, often referred to as the pinnacle of Hajj.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Hajj is Arafah.”
 -(Tirmidhi)

But before Arafah comes the crucial stage of spiritual readiness: Tarwiyah.

The companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) reported that the Messenger of Allah would perform Ghusl, wear his Ihram, and begin uttering the Talbiyah on this day. It was a day of physical preparation and spiritual purification, a time when the heart brimmed with love, awe, and readiness for divine closeness.

Water: A Divine Mercy and a Shared Struggle

Water is no ordinary substance in Islam. It is a sign from Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى, a source of purification, and a symbol of life itself. Allah reminds us in the Qur’an:

“And We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?”
 — (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:30)

On the Day of Tarwiyah, this verse resonates deeply as we recall the pilgrims of old gathering water, and as we witness modern day pilgrims- now struggling under the intensity of a scorching sun, with hydration stations becoming places of relief, mercy, and even survival.

This year’s Hajj isn’t just about spiritual endurance-it’s also about physical survival, especially for the elderly, vulnerable, and those travelling from cooler climates.

A Spiritual Reminder for Us All

While not all of us are performing Hajj, the Day of Tarwiyah serves as a reminder for every Muslim to purify his/her intentions, quench their spiritual thirst, and prepare for closeness to Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى. It’s a day to let go of all worldly worries and ambitions, to pause and reflect on the purpose of our existence and realign our lives towards the greater good- of showing kindness to His creations.

Let us not forget that water-so casually consumed by many-is a daily crisis for millions around the world. Just as pilgrims take water to endure their sacred journey, countless others, including children, mothers, and communities in drought-stricken lands, walk miles just for a single sip.

This Tarwiyah, Quench Someone's Thirst

As we honour the Day of Tarwiyah-the day of water, provision, and divine devotion, let us turn this symbolism into real action. With climate change intensifying, access to clean water is becoming harder for the world’s poorest.

Through Penny Appeal’s Thirst Relief programme, you can provide sustainable, life-saving water solutions to those who need it most. Whether it’s building a well in a remote village or installing solar-powered water plants in arid regions, your donation is a lifeline.

Be Their Tarwiyah. Quench Their Thirst.

This Hajj season, as pilgrims walk in the heat and we reflect from afar, let us act. Donate to Thirst Relief and turn your intention into impact.
 

Because for someone, your water is their prayer answered.