MINA — Hajj pilgrims continued performing the ritual of stoning at Jamarat on the first day of the Tashreeq (Ayyam Al-Tashreeq) on Thursday. They hurled pebbles at all three Jamarat or pillars symbolizing Satan on the fourth day of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj.
Pilgrims moved in batches in their allotted time for performing the ritual on Thursday afternoon. Upon their arrival at the Jamarat, chanting “Allahu Akbar” (God is the greatest), pilgrims stoned first at Jamarat Al-Sugra (small pillar), then at Jamarat Al-Wusta (medium pillar) and lastly at Jamarat Al-Aqaba (largest pillar), seven pebbles each. They prayed after stoning the first two pillars and quit quickly after stoning at the third Jamarat, following the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Pilgrims moved in an orderly and smooth manner from one pillar to the next as they hurled pebbles at the pillars. Multiple lanes were allocated for the smooth movement of pilgrims to the multi-level Jamarat Bridge Complex. This innovative, multi-level structure was engineered to distribute pilgrims efficiently during the throwing ritual. Pedestrian bridges connect the Jamarat to the Mashair Metro and surrounding pilgrim camps in Mina, facilitating safe and convenient movement.
The stoning ritual was carried out within a comprehensive ecosystem of services and security, supported by precise organizational measures that ensured the smooth movement of crowds at the Jamarat facility. The process was guided by a carefully designed crowd management strategy implemented through close coordination among relevant authorities and continuous on-site monitoring. These efforts helped ensure the highest levels of safety and security, enabling pilgrims to perform their rituals in an atmosphere of ease, comfort, and reassurance.
Pilgrims will spend their time in their camps in Mina, praising God, reciting the Holy Qur’an and praying to the Almighty God to accept their pilgrimage. They will spend their nights in the camps on Thursday and Friday.
Those pilgrims who want to finish their pilgrimage early will leave Mina after performing the stoning ritual on Friday, the fifth day of Hajj. Others will leave the tent city after completing the stoning ritual on Saturday, the sixth and final day of Hajj.
Source: Saudi Gazette