In a remarkable display of devotion, hundreds of thousands of worshippers ascended the rocky terrain of Mount Arafat at dawn. It is believed to be the site where Prophet Mohammed delivered his final sermon, making it a sacred location for Muslims. The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, reached its pinnacle during this ritual.
This year’s Hajj expected over 2.5 million pilgrims, showcasing its significance and supporting Saudi Arabia’s ruling royal family. Saudi Arabia is rich in oil reserves.
Despite the scorching heat, with temperatures soaring to 46 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit), the devoted pilgrims journeyed from Makkah to Mina, seeking shelter under umbrellas. Mina, transformed into a vast tented city, offered accommodation to the pilgrims before they commenced the rites at Mount Arafat.
Saudi authorities have temporarily waived the male guardian requirement for female pilgrims until 2021, empowering individuals like Gamal to undertake the Hajj independently.
This year brought a notable change as the maximum age limit was lifted. Saudi govt. allows thousands of elderly individuals to partake in the pilgrimage.
The present-day poses a significant physical challenge as pilgrims spend hours praying and reciting the Quran under the scorching heat of Mount Arafat and its surroundings. Unlike Makkah, which has abundant hotels and commercial centers, air-conditioned shelters are scarce in this area.
Thousands of health workers remained vigilant for heat stroke and exhaustion risks, considering potential health hazards. The period of highest heat risk, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s ban on outdoor labor from June to September, to protect workers.
After sunset, pilgrims head to Muzdalifah, situated between Arafat and Mina, to spend the night under the open sky. The next day, they engage in the symbolic “stoning of the devil” ritual, throwing pebbles at three large concrete walls.
The Hajj pilgrimage concludes at Makkah’s Grand Mosque, where pilgrims perform a final circumambulation around the revered Kaaba. The Kaaba, a black cube towards which Muslims globally direct their daily prayers, holds immense spiritual significance.
The Hajj pilgrimage drew a record number of Muslim worshippers to Mount Arafat, showcasing their faith and devotion. Despite extreme heat and physical challenges, pilgrims undertook the sacred journey, praying for loved ones and seeking spiritual fulfillment. The Hajj pilgrimage symbolizes the resilience and unity of the global Muslim community, honoring their faith together.
