Makkah, May 26 (V7N)- More than 1.6 million pilgrims gathered at Arafat Maidan on Tuesday (May 26) to observe the most important and spiritually significant phase of the holy Hajj, as the annual pilgrimage reached its peak religious observance.
The gathering marks the Day of Arafah, considered the central pillar of Hajj rituals in Islamic tradition, where pilgrims remain in prayer, Quran recitation, dhikr, and supplication until sunset within designated boundaries.
The Hajj sermon was delivered in the afternoon by Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaifi, Imam and Khatib of Masjid al-Haram. The sermon was translated into 35 languages, including Bengali, and emphasized unity, peace, and adherence to Islamic principles.
After the sermon, pilgrims performed combined Zuhr and Asr prayers before heading to Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night and collect pebbles for the next stage of rituals.
On Wednesday (May 27), pilgrims will proceed to Mina to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamarat, followed by animal sacrifice as part of Eid-ul-Azha observances.
Saudi authorities have deployed extensive logistical arrangements, including around 24,000 buses, to ensure smooth transport and safety for pilgrims during the high-density movement between holy sites.
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