Over 1.6 million Muslims performed the final major rite of Hajj on Friday, the symbolic ‘stoning of the devil’ in Mina, as Eid al-Adha festivities began around the Muslim world.
Before dawn, pilgrims began hurling seven pebbles at each of the three stone pillars, known as the Jamarat, representing the devil. The ritual commemorates Prophet Abraham’s rejection of Satan’s temptations to disobey Allah’s command.
On Thursday, pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat to pray and reflect, marking one of Hajj's most significant days.
AFP reported, despite warnings to avoid midday heat, many still climbed the sacred site where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave his final sermon.
This year’s official Hajj count of 1.6 million is the lowest in over three decades, excluding the Covid years. Last year, 1.8 million pilgrims participated. Authorities attributed many of last year's deaths to unregistered pilgrims without access to essential services.
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