The Farewell Sermon (Khutbat al-Wada')

Context

The Farewell Sermon was delivered by Prophet Muhammad on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, 10 AH (632 CE), during his only Hajj, at the plain of Arafat. Over 100,000 companions were present. It is one of the most important speeches in human history, laying down fundamental principles of human rights, social justice, and religious guidance.

Key Points

Sanctity of Life and Property: 'Your blood, your property, and your honor are sacred, as sacred as this day, this month, and this city.' Abolition of Pre-Islamic Practices: All claims of blood vengeance and usurious interest from the pre-Islamic era were declared void. Rights of Women: 'Treat women well, for they are like captives in your hands. You have rights over them and they have rights over you.' Equality: 'All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab. A white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have superiority over a white, except through taqwa (God-consciousness).' Final Guidance: 'I have left among you that which if you hold fast to it, you will never go astray: the Book of Allah.'

Significance

Shortly after this sermon, the verse was revealed: 'Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen Islam as your religion' (Quran 5:3). The Prophet passed away approximately 80 days later.