The 9th of Dhu'l Hijjah is known as 'the Day of `Arafah,' because the pilgrims at Hajj gather at `Arafah in worship, which is one of the three central integrals of the Hajj rituals. Its importance is such that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, "Hajj is `Arafah."
[Reported in most major hadith works]

Even for those not performing the pilgrimage, Hajj, the first ten days of this month are considered very sacred and a time for increased reflection, seeking Allah's forgiveness, doing good and various other forms of worship.

Muslim ibn Aqeel was the cousin of Imam Hussein and was the son of Aqeel Ibn Abutalib, brother of Imam Ali. Muslim ibn Aqeel was sent ahead as an envoy to Kufa to see if the people could be trusted to be loyal.

Imam Hussein received a letter from people of Kufa with these words: “We invite you to come to Kufa as we have no Imam to guide us. Through you Allah will unite us on the path of truth."

Name: Muhammed ibn 'Ali

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The Fifth Imam (as) played a significant role in the development of early Islam. He (as) is respected as a great scholar amongst all the traditions within Islam and even those who did not believe in Imamah looked to him(as) for explanation of fiqh.

The ninth infallible Imam, who enriched and expanded the Islamic thought and Shari’a was born in the holy city of Medina on the 10th of Rajab 195 AH. He was the son of Imam Ali Ridha (as) and Bibi Sabika, also known as Khaizarun (as).

The Imam was brought up by his father for four years, after which Imam Ridha had to migrate from Medina to Iran, leaving his young son behind him.