(Web Desk) - The annual Hajj pilgrimage is continuing in Makkah as millions of Muslims from around the world prepare to perform Wuquf-e-Arafah, the most important pillar of Hajj, today (Tuesday).
In the first phase of the pilgrimage, pilgrims travelled in large groups from Makkah to Mina, where they offered Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers. The pilgrims spent the night in worship, reciting the Holy Quran, offering prayers and engaging in remembrance of Allah, while the atmosphere echoed with chants of “’Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.’
On the 9th of Zul-Hijjah, pilgrims will gather at Plain of Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafah and listen to the Hajj sermon delivered from Masjid Namirah. Pilgrims will also combine and shorten the Zuhr and Asr prayers.
The pilgrims will remain in Arafat until sunset, offering prayers, repentance and supplications. Immediately after sunset, they will depart for Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the open sky, combine Maghrib and Isha prayers, and collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil.
On the morning of 10th Zul-Hijjah, pilgrims will return to Mina to perform Rami by throwing pebbles at the largest Jamarah. They will then offer sacrifices, shave or trim their hair, and remove their Ihram before heading to Makkah to perform Tawaf-e-Ziyarat.
Pilgrims will continue the ritual of stoning the Jamarat during their stay in Mina over the following days before completing the Hajj rituals on 12th Zul-Hijjah.
Meanwhile, Saudi authorities have made special arrangements in and around Arafat in view of extreme heat and possible dust storms. The measures include tree plantation drives, shaded areas, cooling fans with water mist systems, and specially designed walkways aimed at reducing fatigue for pilgrims.