Muslim Pilgrims Seek Forgiveness on Mount Arafat During Hajj
ARAFAT, Saudi Arabia — Tens of thousands of Muslim pilgrims scaled rocky terrain and nestled among boulders on Thursday as they dedicated themselves to a day of worship under a blazing sun during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The pilgrims ascended the revered Mount Arafat, a central ritual in this sacred journey, to perform prayers and seek forgiveness.
Despite searing temperatures that soared above 40°C (104°F), worshippers persisted in their devotion. They spread their arms in prayer while using handheld fans and water mists to battle the heat during long hours spent in reflection. Pilgrims are required to remain in Arafat until sunset, emphasizing the spiritual importance of enduring the hardship in pursuit of divine mercy.
Nearby, an ice cream kiosk offered a brief respite, providing relief for those seeking to cool off amid the demanding conditions. Salem Naji Ahmed, a pilgrim from Yemen, explained that he endured a four‐day overland journey because he could not afford a flight. “These sacred feelings are the most luxurious and best thing about Arafat,” he said. “We came from Yemen, four days and nights. It was very tiring, but we came to please Allah and perform one of his obligations in the holy sites in the best area on earth.”
The site at Arafat holds deep significance in Islam. Mentioned in the Quran, it is believed to be the location where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon during his last Hajj. Traditional teachings hold the Day of Arafat as the most sacred of the year—a time when God draws near to the faithful and forgives their sins.
Hatem Salem, a pilgrim from Egypt, remarked on the profound emotion experienced at the holy site. “We cannot express the feeling. We feel the best at the holy sites with a humble heart and faith.”
Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for Muslims who are financially and physically capable of undertaking the journey. Although authorities have not released the exact number of participants for this year’s pilgrimage, earlier estimates indicated that more than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims were taking part. By comparison, last year saw 1,611,310 international pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia.
Embracing Faith, One Insight at a Time!
The teachings of the Quran have always guided my path. With a deep passion for Islamic knowledge, I strive to blend the wisdom of tradition with the relevance of today, making the timeless messages of Islam accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Muslim Culture Hub is my platform to share historical insights and thought-provoking articles, exploring both well-known and lesser-discussed aspects of Islamic culture and beliefs. My mission is to create an inclusive online space where everyone can learn, strengthen their faith, and connect with the profound message of Islam.
Join the journey!
May peace be upon you.
