The Final Ritual of Hajj and Eid ul-Adha 2024: A Testament to Faith and Solidarity
As Muslims around the globe mark the sacred festival of Eid ul-Adha, pilgrims in Mecca are performing the final major ritual of the Hajj: the symbolic “stoning of the devil.” This act, which takes place in the Mina Valley outside Mecca, signifies the culmination of a pilgrimage that draws millions of believers from every corner of the world to Islam’s holiest sites.
The Ritual of Stoning
On Sunday, June 30, 2024, at dawn, the 1.8 million Muslims partaking in this year’s Hajj will begin the stoning ritual. Each pilgrim throws seven pebbles at three large walls, representing the devil, in a reenactment of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) rejection of Satan’s temptations. According to Islamic tradition, Satan attempted to dissuade Ibrahim from fulfilling God’s command to sacrifice his son. Ibrahim’s steadfastness is celebrated through this ritual, symbolizing the triumph of faith over doubt and temptation.
Historical Context and Safety Measures
The stoning ritual has, in the past, been marred by tragic stampedes, with the most devastating occurring in 2015, resulting in the deaths of up to 2,300 worshippers. Since then, Saudi authorities have revamped the site to improve the safety and movement of the massive crowds. Enhanced infrastructure and stringent crowd control measures have been implemented to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims.
The Journey and the Challenges
On the night before the stoning, pilgrims gather stones and spend the night under the stars in the plain of Muzdalifah, located between Mina and Arafat. They endure grueling conditions, with temperatures soaring to 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite the harsh weather, the spirit of perseverance and devotion remains strong among the worshippers.
“It was very, very hot,” remarked Rohy Daiseca, a 60-year-old Gambian living in the United States. “Alhamdulilah (thank God), I put a lot of water on my head and it was OK.”
The challenges are seen as part of the spiritual journey, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many to pray at the holiest shrines in Islam. The sentiment of unity and equality is palpable among the diverse assembly of believers.
“I am so happy that I can’t describe my feelings,” expressed Amal Mahrouss, a 55-year-old woman from Egypt. “This place shows us that we are all equal, that there are no differences between Muslims around the world.”
Eid ul-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice
Coinciding with the stoning ritual is the celebration of Eid ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. This holiday honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, who instead provided a ram for the sacrifice. In commemoration, Muslims around the world slaughter animals such as sheep, goats, or cows, distributing the meat among family, friends, and those in need.
The spirit of charity and sharing is central to Eid ul-Adha, reinforcing the values of compassion and community support. This year’s Hajj and Eid ul-Adha celebrations, however, are tinged with sadness due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
“We are very sad for the Palestinians, and we have prayed a lot for them,” said Intissar, a 25-year-old Syrian living in Saudi Arabia, who preferred not to disclose her surname.
King Salman of Saudi Arabia extended his support by inviting 2,000 Palestinians to perform Hajj at his own expense, including family members of victims from Gaza who have sought refuge elsewhere.
A Call for Peace and Solidarity
Despite warnings from Saudi authorities against political slogans during the pilgrimage, many worshippers have expressed their solidarity with the Palestinians. “Pray for our brothers in Palestine, in Gaza… may God give victory to the Muslims,” one pilgrim called out on Mount Arafat.
In a message to Hajj pilgrims, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei emphasized the need to support the Palestinians. “The ironclad resistance of Palestine and the patient, oppressed people of Gaza… must be fully supported in every way,” he stated.
The Muslim world celebrates Eid ul-Adha, a celebration that serves as a potent reminder of the eternal values of faith, sacrifice, and solidarity, as the pilgrims finish the stoning ceremony. It is an occasion for introspection, empathy, and a reaffirmation of the ties that bind Muslims worldwide.
