Around 1.5 million pilgrims from across the globe performed Waqoof-e-Arafah, the Rukn-e-Azam of Hajj at the Mount Arafat on Thursday.
The Day of Arafat is the most sacred day of the year, when Almighty Allah draws near to the faithful and forgives their sins.
Imam of Masjid al-Haram Sheikh Dr Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid delivered the Hajj sermon at Arafat in which he emphasized the importance of neighborly care, compassion for orphans, widows, and the underprivileged, and kindness toward parents. He urged Muslims to continue praying and giving zakat to support the needy.
The Imam called upon Muslims to embrace taqwa, patience, gratitude, and consistent worship of Allah. He emphasized the importance of the fundamental pillars of Islam, including namaz, fasting, zakat, and Hajj.
Sheikh Dr Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid reminded Muslims to honor their promises, speak the truth, and uphold modesty, describing these as integral components of faith. He emphasized that good and evil are not equal, and that responding to wrongs with good can transform enemies into close companions.
The Imam also prayed for the people of Palestine and expressed gratitude to the Saudi government for its efforts in facilitating the pilgrimage and caring for the pilgrims.
It is pertinent to mention that after sunset, pilgrims will head to Muzdalifah, halfway between Arafat and the sprawling tent city of Mina, where they will gather pebbles so they can perform the symbolic stoning of the devil on Friday.
