Kashmir Impulse Desk

Jeddah, May 26

Lakhs of Muslim pilgrims gathered on the plains of Arafat on Monday to perform Wuquf-e-Arafah, the central rite of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, as the Hajj sermon called for unity, solidarity, and brotherhood across the Muslim world.

Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaify, Chief Imam and Khateeb of Masjid an-Nabawi in Madina, delivered the sermon from Masjid Al-Namirah at Mount Arafat, urging Muslims to uphold unity, reject division, and stand together against evil and discord.

Addressing the pilgrims, he emphasised the sanctity of human life, the importance of God-consciousness, and adherence to the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as guiding principles for a righteous life.

He urged believers to faithfully observe the five pillars of Islam, avoid disputes and divisions, and remain mindful of even minor sins, warning that small wrongdoings, if neglected, can weaken faith and moral character over time.

The imam said Islam rejects distinctions of race, nationality, or ethnicity, and that superiority among people is determined only by piety, righteousness, and good deeds.

He also called on pilgrims to embody compassion, patience, humility, and brotherhood, saying Hajj symbolises equality, unity, and complete submission to Allah.

Following the sermon, Sheikh Al-Hudhaify led the combined and shortened Zuhr and Asr prayers.

From early morning, pilgrims moved towards Arafat, about 20 km southeast of Makkah, where they spent the day in prayer, recitation of the Quran, remembrance of Allah, and supplication.

Wuquf-e-Arafah is regarded as the pinnacle of Hajj and the most essential ritual of the pilgrimage. In Islamic tradition, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Hajj is Arafah,” underscoring the central significance of the gathering.

Islamic scholars describe the Day of Arafat as among the holiest days in the Islamic calendar, associated with mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal.

The occasion also commemorates the Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in 632 CE, during which he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat, outlining principles of justice, equality, and the sanctity of life and property.

Arafat, dominated by Jabal Al-Rahmah, or the Mount of Mercy, holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims. Islamic tradition links the site to the reunion of Prophet Adam (SAW) and Hawwa after their descent to earth.

Saudi security forces were deployed across routes and walkways leading to Arafat, closely monitoring pilgrim movement and managing crowds.

Pilgrims remained in Arafat until sunset in prayer and repentance before departing for Muzdalifah, where they spent the night under the open sky, offered combined Maghrib and Isha prayers, and collected pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina.