Muslim Embark on Hajj Amidst Israel Hamas Conflict
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Alaina
- . June 14, 2024
- . Update: June 14, 2024 5:41 pm
In the scorching heat of Mecca, Muslim pilgrims have begun the annual Hajj pilgrimage, converging on the vast tent city in Mina on Friday. Set against the backdrop of ongoing Israel- Hamas war, a conflict that has disrupted lives and raised tension across the Middle East, this year’s pilgrimage is particularly poignant.
A Record Turnout Amidst Crisis
The Hajj, one of the Five pillars of Islam, is a deeply moving spiritual journey that Muslims must undertake at least once I’d they are capable. It involves a series of rituals that celebrates the trials of Prophet Ibrahim, his son Prophet Ismail and Ismail’s mother Hajar. This time more than 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world have already gathered in Mecca, with numbers expected to cross 2 million as local Saudi participants join.
Prayers for Peace
As pilgrims circled the Islam’s holiest site, Kaaba, the war in Gaza was on every mind. The conflict has prohibited Palestinians in Gaza from making the pilgrimage, as Israel’s ground offensive led to the closure of the Rafah crossing with Egypt in May. Mohammad Rafeeq, a pilgrim from India, voiced a common sentiment: “We pray for the Muslims, for our country and people, for all the Muslim world, especially for the Palestinian people.”
4,200 pilgrims from the West Bank and 1,000 more from the families of those affected by the Gaza war have managed to reach Mecca, with the help of the Saudi government’s intervention, despite the turmoil.
Syrian Pilgrim’s Milestone
Syrian pilgrims traveled directly from Damascus to Mecca for the first time in over a decade, this is marked as a significant step in the normalization of relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia. This change has eased the trialsome voyages for Syrians, who previously had to travel through Turkey.
The Hajj Experience
The Hajj rituals started on Friday with the journey to Mina. Pilgrims will then spend a day on Mount Arafat, the place where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his farewell Sermon. This is followed by a night in Muzdalifah, where they collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina. The pilgrimage concludes with the Eid al- Adha festival, where Muslims worldwide slaughter livestock in a gesture of charity.
Overcoming Challenges
With temperatures potentially reaching 48 degree Celsius in Mecca, the sweltering summer heat poses a significant challenge for the pilgrims. Water distributions and cooling station set ups are the few efforts Saudi authorities have provided to help the pilgrims cope with the conditions. Despite the intense heat and other challenges, the spiritual significance of the Hajj remains undiminished.
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Security and Safety
Saudi authorities have implemented strict security measures, which includes checkpoints and fines for those without proper documentation. These measures are crucial not only for managing the massive crowds but also for ensuring the safety and security of all participants amidst regional instability.
A Journey of a Lifetime
Hajj is the most significant journey for every Muslim’s life. Pilgrims often save for years and navigate complex permit systems to fulfill this religious duty. This pilgrimage is seen as a path to spiritual renewal and means of seeking divine blessings and forgiveness.
As the world witnesses, the millions gathered in Mecca are not just performing religious rites; they are conveying the message of unity and peace. Their prayers and devotion resonate beyond the deserts of Saudi Arabia, offering a light of hope and solidarity in a time of widespread hardships and conflicts.
