MINA: Hajj pilgrims on Saturday began the ritual stoning of the devil, casting pebbles at the Jamarat, three stone pillars in Mina, on the first day of Tashreeq, which follows Eid Al-Adha.
The stoning ritual commenced with the smallest pillar, followed by the middle one, and concluded with Jamarat Al-Aqaba, the largest, in accordance with the practice of the Prophet Muhammad.
Pilgrims are carrying out their stoning rituals amid soaring temperatures reaching 46 C, according to the National Center for Meteorology. The center also forecast a further rise in temperatures by three degrees. However, the weather is expected to cool down with minimum temperatures reaching 31 C.
The Interior Ministry has reiterated its ongoing commitment to ensuring the protection and safety of pilgrims across Mina and within their camps. The ministry added that these efforts include managing pedestrian movement from the tents to the Jamarat area and during their journey to the Grand Mosque.
The ministry also urged pilgrims to continue adhering to the instructions that regulate their movement during the days of Tashreeq, emphasizing the importance of safety—particularly when circling the Kaaba, hastening between the hills of Al-Safa and Al-Marwa, and performing the stoning ritual at the Jamarat in Mina.
For its part, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah called on pilgrims to adhere to the organizational guidelines and follow the designated Hajj schedules to ensure the smooth performance of rituals and to minimize the risk of heat exhaustion and sunstroke.
Speaking to Arab News, Mohammed Isaaq, a Pakistani pilgrim, said that his Hajj journey has been “exceptional” in every aspect.
“It is my first time performing Hajj, and everything around us is remarkably well-organized, allowing us to complete our rituals with ease and serenity. What an experience. I am deeply grateful to the Almighty for granting me the opportunity to be part of this Hajj season and to perform the rites in such a profoundly spiritual atmosphere,” he said.
On her way back from the stoning ritual, Naeema Yousuf, a Libyan pilgrim, said she cannot describe her feelings as she prepares to end her pilgrimage and return to her country “with no sins.”
She said: “Allah has promised us forgiveness, and we are hopeful he will accept our Hajj and forgive our sins. I am an elderly woman who only wishes to leave this world with no sins.”
She added: “I would like to thank all those here who have shown us kindness and care. May Allah reward you for the efforts and services you provide to your brothers and sisters who come from all over the world to perform Hajj.”
This year’s over 1.6 million pilgrims will continue their stay in Mina during the days of Tashreeq to complete the remaining rites of Hajj, with the option to depart after performing the stoning ritual on the second day for those who choose to do so.
