Pilgrims flocked to Mina to spend the Day of Tarwiyah
Pilgrims began arriving in Mina on the morning of the eighth day of Dhul-Hijjah to spend the Day of Tarwiyah, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This blessed step takes place amidst a spiritual atmosphere filled with the Talbiyah, Tasbih, and Takbir, as hearts and eyes are focused on performing the fifth pillar of Islam. Islamic law confirms that the pilgrims' journey to Mina on this day, whether performing Hajj al-Qiran or Hajj al-Ifrad, and their overnight stay there before proceeding to Arafat, is a highly recommended Sunnah that the guests of God are keen to observe.
As for the pilgrims performing Tamattu' (a type of Hajj), they leave their accommodations inside or outside Mecca and gather in Mina until sunrise on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah. After that, the faithful masses proceed to the sacred plain of Arafat to perform the great standing (Waqf), then return to Mina after departing from Arafat and spending the night in Muzdalifah, to spend the days of Tashreeq and perform the stoning of the three Jamarat, in compliance with the Almighty's words: "And remember Allah during [specific] numbered days. Then whoever hastens [his departure] in two days - there is no sin upon him; and whoever delays [his departure] - there is no sin upon him - for him who fears Allah.".
The historical significance of Mina on the Day of Tarwiyah
Mina lies between Mecca and Muzdalifah, seven kilometers northeast of the Grand Mosque, and is an integral part of the sacred precincts of Mecca. Surrounded by mountains to the north and south, it is only inhabited during the Hajj season. This sacred site holds immense historical and religious significance; it was here that the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) stoned the pillars representing Satan, and it was here that Ishmael (peace be upon him) was redeemed with a great ram. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) confirmed these traditions during his Farewell Pilgrimage, making Mina a living testament to one of the largest human gatherings in Islamic history. Among its most prominent landmarks are the three pillars used for stoning and the Al-Khaif Mosque, where the Prophet and prophets before him prayed, which has undergone major expansions to accommodate the pilgrims.
The impact of Hajj rituals and the large Islamic gathering
The importance of Hajj extends far beyond the individual spiritual realm, encompassing a profound regional and international impact. This annual gathering sends a message of peace and unity to the entire world, where differences of race and language fade away, and Muslims stand shoulder to shoulder in their white ihram garments. Domestically, this event reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's exceptional ability to manage massive crowds and organize major events, reinforcing its leading position in the Islamic world and internationally. Furthermore, the Hajj season stimulates economic activity and creates numerous job opportunities, positively impacting overall development.
The Kingdom's efforts in serving the pilgrims
The government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pays meticulous attention to Mina and all the holy sites, recognizing the importance of this period and place in the Hajj pilgrimage. The wise leadership has dedicated all available resources and services—security, medical care, and logistical support—in addition to providing advanced transportation networks to facilitate the performance of the rituals. All governmental and service agencies work in close coordination and with tireless effort to ensure the comfort of the pilgrims and provide a safe and healthy environment that allows them to perform their religious rites in an atmosphere of tranquility and spirituality, thus reaffirming the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to serving Islam and Muslims.
