As pilgrims from around the world gather in Saudi Arabia to observe the annual Hajj, the last major ritual of stoning the devil took place on Sunday. This ritual, which commemorates Abraham's obedience to God to sacrifice his son, marks the beginning of the Eid al-Adha celebrations for Muslims. Legit.ng is also providing a special opportunity for its readers to vote for their favorite entertainers in 15 categories for the 2024 Entertainment Awards. Meanwhile, Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada brings his extensive experience in covering metro and government policy to report on this important event.
Hajj, Eid al-Adha, and the Stoning of the Devil
Background:
The Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia that is required of all able-bodied Muslims once in their lifetime. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and a sacred journey for believers, who strive to purify their souls and seek forgiveness from God.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of the Hajj and commemorates the prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God.
Stoning of the Devil:
The stoning of the devil is a symbolic ritual that takes place during the Hajj. Pilgrims throw pebbles at three pillars known as the Jamarat, which represent Satan. This act symbolizes the rejection of temptation and the believer's commitment to follow the path of God.
Recent Events:
On Sunday, July 9, 2023, pilgrims gathered at Mina, a valley near Mecca, to perform the last major ritual of the Hajj, the stoning of the devil. The ritual marked the beginning of the Eid al-Adha celebrations.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. What is the significance of the Hajj? The Hajj is a spiritual journey of purification and atonement, during which pilgrims seek forgiveness from God and strengthen their connection to their faith.
2. Why is the stoning of the devil performed? The stoning of the devil symbolizes the rejection of temptation and the believer's commitment to follow the path of God.
3. When does Eid al-Adha take place? Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.
4. How is Eid al-Adha celebrated? Eid al-Adha is celebrated by attending prayers, slaughtering animals, sharing meat with neighbors, and exchanging gifts.
5. What was the significance of the 2023 Hajj? The 2023 Hajj was the first to be held without COVID-19 restrictions, marking a return to normal pilgrimage for millions of Muslims worldwide.
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