Millions of Muslims have arrived in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to embark on the Hajj pilgrimage. This year’s gathering comes amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza and under the intense heat of the Saudi summer.
Over a million pilgrims, dressed in white robes, have converged on the Grand Mosque in Makkah. Many, like 75-year-old Zahra Benizahra from Morocco, expressed deep sorrow for the ongoing violence in Palestine. Pilgrims from Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, also shared their desire for peace.
In a gesture of solidarity, Saudi King Salman welcomed 1,000 pilgrims from families of martyrs and wounded in the Gaza Strip. This brings the total number of Palestinian pilgrims to 2,000 for this year’s Hajj. However, authorities have made it clear that any form of political activity during the pilgrimage will not be tolerated.
The Hajj is a deeply spiritual experience, considered one of the five pillars of Islam. It requires Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it at least once in their lifetime.
The pilgrimage involves a series of rituals completed over several days. This year, it begins with the “tawaf” – circling the Kaaba, the black cubic structure at the center of the Grand Mosque, seven times.
With temperatures expected to soar as high as 48 degrees Celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit), Saudi authorities are taking precautions to mitigate heat-related illnesses. Measures include misting systems, heat-reflective road surfaces, and advisories encouraging pilgrims to stay hydrated.
Despite the challenges, many pilgrims, like Nonaartina Hajipaoli from Brunei, expressed immense joy and privilege at being selected to participate in this year’s Hajj. This year’s pilgrimage is expected to see a significant increase in attendance compared to pandemic restrictions in recent years.
The Hajj is a powerful symbol of unity and faith for Muslims worldwide. This year, it will be a time of reflection not only on their own spiritual journeys but also on the ongoing conflicts and suffering in the Muslim world.
