Khalifa Uthman bin Affan - The Farewell Pilgrimage

In 632 C.E. the Holy Prophet decided to proceed to Makkah to perform the pilgrimage. This time the pilgrimage was planned on a large scale. After the necessary arrangements had been made, a caravan of one lakh persons started for Makkah. The Holy Prophet rode at the head of the caravan. He was accompanied by all his wives. Uthman accompanied by his wife also traveled with the caravan

At Dhul Hulaifa the Muslims put on the 'Ihram', the pilgrim's garb. The Holy Prophet gave the signal call "Labbayk, Allahhumma Labbayk" "Here I am at Your service O Lord!". The party reached Makkah on the 4th of Dhul Hajj after a journey of 19 days. After a stay of four days in Makkah the party left for Mina, and passed the night there. The following day the pilgrims proceeded to Arafat. After midday prayer on the 9th of Dhul Hajj at Arafat, the Holy Prophet delivered his historic address:

After praising Allah, the Holy Prophet said:

"O people listen carefully to my words for I may not be among you next year, nor ever address you again from this spot.

O people just as you regard this month as sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as sacred.

Return the goods entrusted to you for custody to their rightful owners.

Hurt no one that none may hurt you.

Usury is forbidden.

Satan has despaired in leading you astray in big things; so beware of obeying him in small things.

Women have rights over you, and you have rights over them. Be good to them.

You may soon have to appear before Allah and answer for your deeds. So, beware.

Do not go astray after I am gone. O people, no Prophet will come after me, and no new faith will be born.

Worship your Allah, say your prayers, fast during the month of Ramadhan, and give of your wealth in charity.

All Muslims, free or slave have the same rights and the same responsibilities. None is higher than the other unless he is higher in virtue.

Feed your slaves as you feed yourself. Do not oppress them, nor usurp their rights".

Turning to the heavens, the Holy Prophet said:

"Be my witness that I have conveyed the message I was commissioned to deliver"

Then the entire congregation with one voice said: "Yes, O Prophet of Allah, you have delivered the message".

Thereafter, Allah revealed:

"This day I have perfected for you your faith, And completed my blessing upon you, And have chosen for you Islam as your religion".