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Two million Muslims prepare to stone devil at haj
(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-11-27 09:53
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 A Muslim pilgrim prays on Mount Mercy on the plains of Arafat outside the holy city of Mecca November 26, 2009. [Agencies] |
The haj marks sites that Islamic tradition says Prophet Ibrahim -- biblical patriarch Abraham -- visited in Mecca and that Prophet Mohammad established as a pilgrim route 14 centuries ago after removing pagan idols from Mecca.
Islam is now embraced by a quarter of the world's population.
"God gave us a reprieve from the rainfall on the most important day of haj. It shows his immense clemency," Indonesian pilgrim Abdulwadood Asegaf said.
"We are going to avoid going up the Mount Arafat this time because it is too muddy," he added.
"The rain was a blessing from God. We are now going to pray to beg for God's forgiveness and mercy, for the good of our children and of all Muslims," said Egyptian pilgrim Nasser Abu Ahmed.
Nigerian businessman Mustafa Abu Bakr said Muslims from different parts of the world and different walks of life renew their allegiance to God in Arafat.
"We will pray for world peace," he said.
Authorities have reported none of the problems that have marred the haj in previous years such as fires, hotel collapses, police clashes with protesters and stampedes.
