Muslims from around the world gathered in MINA, Saudi Arabia to celebrate the Hajj pilgrimage. Thousands braved the noontime summer heat to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil. The Eid al-Adha holiday coincides with the final days of the Hajj.
The stoning ritual takes place in Mina, near Mecca, a significant site in Islam. More than 1.83 million Muslims participated in the Hajj pilgrimage in 2024. The rites of Hajj commemorate Prophet Ibrahim, Prophet Ismail, and Hajar.
The extreme heat in Mecca and the surrounding areas posed a challenge for the pilgrims. Some suffered from heatstroke and sunstroke during the rituals. Security forces and medics were deployed to assist and guide the pilgrims.
Despite the harsh conditions, many expressed admiration for the preparations and smooth proceedings. The symbolic stoning of the devil represents Ibrahim’s faith being tested by God. The rituals began at Mount Arafat before moving to Mina.
The pilgrims collected pebbles from Muzdalifa to use in the stoning ritual. The Hajj is a significant religious gathering where evil and sin are symbolically cast away. After completing the rituals, pilgrims perform the Farewell Tawaf before leaving the holy city.
Men are expected to shave their heads, and women to snip a lock of hair as a sign of renewal. Once the Hajj is over, many pilgrims visit Medina to pray at Prophet Muhammad’s tomb. This year’s Hajj took place amid the Israel-Hamas war, which has caused devastation in the region.
The war has claimed thousands of lives and disrupted travel for Palestinians. The closure of the Rafah crossing prevented Gazans from participating in the Hajj. The conflict underscores the challenges faced by Muslims in the region.
