It is considered to be the parallel prayer to Yotzer ohr, which is recited in the same place at Shacharit.
[2] HaMaariv Aravim and Ahavat Olam being recited at the beginning of Maariv is seen as a preparation for the recitation of the Shema in the form of an affirmation of unity.
[3] HaMaariv Aravim is a praise of God for bringing on the darkness, controlling the day and night, for ordering the stars in heaven, and for the seasons.
[4] While it is preferable to recite Maariv after dusk, it is permissible to recite this blessing any time after plag hamincha, even if dusk has not occurred yet.
[5] In the Italian rite (based on the Siddur of Rav Saadya Gaon), there is an alternative version of this blessing for the Sabbath, beginning with "asher kilah".