Hajj started in Mecca and Medina during new heatwave warnings

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Somudranil Sarkar

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June 14, 2024 18:04 GMT+5:30

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The Hajj pilgrimage has already started in Mecca and Medina. But what is happening to the people who have gathered for this holy trip. In the midst of scorching heat, Muslim pilgrims from around the globe gathered on June 14 in the vast tent city in the desert outside Mecca, marking the official opening of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. This year’s Hajj sees over 1.5 million pilgrims converging in Mecca, with numbers expected to surpass 2 million as more join from within Saudi Arabia. Despite the massive heatwave, we have to understand that the faith has surpassed for the divine being in this holy land.

Faith Over Heatwave: Hajj 2024’s Challenges and Triumphs

In 2024, the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca draws over 2 million Muslims despite soaring temperatures and regional tensions.

Enduring Faith:

• Despite these hurdles, the spiritual journey continues, showcasing the pilgrims’ unwavering commitment to fulfilling their religious duty amidst adversity.

Extreme Heat Conditions:

• Temperatures soar to 48°C, challenging pilgrims during outdoor rituals.
• Health advisories emphasize hydration and sun protection.

Geopolitical Tensions:

• Gaza’s pilgrims are hindered by border closures due to ongoing conflict.
• Syrian pilgrims, for the first time in over a decade, travel directly from Damascus, reflecting improved relations.

Real-Life Examples of Pilgrims Facing Travel Hurdles

Amna Abu Mutlaq, a 75-year-old woman from Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis, expressed her disappointment: “We are deprived of Hajj because the crossing is closed, and because of the raging wars and destruction,” highlighting how geopolitical issues can disrupt the spiritual aspirations of many.

Meanwhile, for the first time in over a decade, Syrian pilgrims traveled directly from Damascus to Mecca, a significant development reflecting the thawing relations between Saudi Arabia and Syria. Abdel-Aziz al-Ashqar, a coordinator for the Syrian group, remarked, “This is the natural thing: Pilgrims go to Hajj directly from their home countries,” emphasizing the importance of eased travel restrictions for pilgrims.

Understanding the Hajj Journey

Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a profound spiritual journey that Muslims are required to undertake at least once in their lifetime, if physically and financially able. It is a time of unity and devotion, bringing together Muslims from diverse backgrounds to participate in rituals that commemorate the trials of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his son Prophet Ismail (Ishmael), and Ismail’s mother Hajar.

• Pilgrims’ Attire and Rituals: Male pilgrims don the ihram, two unstitched white cloth sheets, while women wear modest clothing with headscarves, abstaining from makeup and perfume. These garments symbolize purity and equality. Upon arriving in Mecca, pilgrims perform the Tawaf, circling the Kaaba counter-clockwise in the Grand Mosque.
• Outdoor Rituals in Extreme Heat: The pilgrimage involves numerous outdoor activities with little shade. After the pivotal day of standing on the plains of Arafat on June 15, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifa to collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil at Mina, coinciding with the Eid al-Adha festival. These rituals are performed under intense heat, making it crucial for pilgrims to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Security and Logistical Measures

Saudi authorities have implemented strict security measures to ensure the safety and order of the pilgrimage:

• Checkpoints and Permits: Checkpoints are set up around Mecca to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the holy sites without Hajj permits. Those attempting to transport unregistered pilgrims face severe penalties, including expulsion and jail time for travel agents.
• Safety Precautions: Given the summer timing of this year’s Hajj, health advisories and safety measures are in place to help pilgrims cope with the extreme heat. Pilgrims are advised to use protective gear like umbrellas and to stay hydrated.

Post-COVID Hajj Resurgence

After years of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hajj pilgrimage has nearly returned to its pre-pandemic scale. Last year, over 1.8 million pilgrims participated, approaching the 2019 level of 2.4 million. This resurgence highlights the enduring significance of Hajj and the determination of pilgrims to fulfill this sacred obligation despite ongoing challenges.