During the annual Hajj pilgrimage, over 1.83 million Muslims from around the world gathered at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for a day of worship and reflection. This sacred hill, also known as the Hill of Mercy, is considered the peak of the Hajj journey where pilgrims ask God for mercy, blessings, prosperity and good health. The ritual holds significant importance as it is believed that Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon at this very spot 1,435 years ago.
The extreme heat during the pilgrimage posed a challenge for the pilgrims with temperatures reaching up to 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit). Saudi authorities urged them to stay hydrated and use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun. The Health Ministry also cautioned against heatstroke and provided medical assistance.
The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the largest religious gatherings on Earth, with millions of Muslims performing various rituals over several days. It includes visiting Mecca's Grand Mosque, circling the Kaaba seven times, and symbolically stoning evil. The journey culminates at Mount Arafat where pilgrims stand together in unity and equality before God.
This year's Hajj took place against the backdrop of conflict-stricken regions such as Syria, Yemen, Sudan, and Palestine. Despite these challenges, thousands of pilgrims from these countries managed to make the journey. For instance, 1,000 Gazans were invited by Saudi King Salman to join the pilgrimage.
The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam that every able Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrims come from various backgrounds and nationalities but share a common goal: seeking God's mercy and blessings.
