Hajj Pilgrims Commence Overnight Stay at Muzdalifah After Arafat Ritual

Makkah, The Gulf Observer: Hajj pilgrims have begun the sacred ritual of staying overnight at Muzdalifah after descending from the plains of Arafat, marking a significant phase in their pilgrimage.

Following sunset on Saturday, the pilgrims made their way to Muzdalifah in a serene and orderly procession, frequently reciting the talbiyah, a prayer expressing their devotion. This movement was facilitated by comprehensive services organized by the Saudi government to ensure the pilgrims could perform their rituals with ease and comfort.

Upon reaching Muzdalifah, the pilgrims offered the Maghrib prayer, consisting of three raka’a, followed by the Isha prayer, consisting of two raka’a, performed at the time of Isha. These prayers were combined and shortened in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The pilgrims will spend the night in Muzdalifah and proceed to Mina after performing the dawn (Fajr) prayer on Sunday, which is the first day of Eid al-Adha. In Mina, they will partake in the ritual of throwing pebbles at Jamarat Al-Aqabah and perform the sacrifice ritual. Notably, it is permissible for the weak and women to leave Muzdalifah after midnight instead of staying until Fajr prayer.

Sunday, known as the Day of Sacrifice, involves several key rituals for the pilgrims. After reaching Mina from Muzdalifah, they will perform the stoning at Jamarat Al-Aqaba, sacrifice animals, shave their heads, and then proceed to Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Ifada and Sai’, which are essential components of Hajj.

For the remaining two or three days of Hajj, the primary ritual is the stoning at each of the three Jamarat, symbolizing the rejection of evil.

This year’s pilgrimage continues to be marked by meticulous planning and execution, ensuring that millions of pilgrims can perform their religious duties in a safe and spiritually fulfilling environment. The Saudi authorities have been commended for their efforts in managing the massive influx of pilgrims and providing the necessary infrastructure and services.