Hajj Begins: 1.5 Million Pilgrims Arrive in Mina
More than 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world arrived in the tent city of Mina on Monday, the Day of Tarwiyah, marking the start of one of the largest religious gatherings on the planet.
Mina: A Sacred Meeting Place for Pilgrims
Mina is located seven kilometers northeast of the Sacred Mosque, between Mecca and Muzdalifah, surrounded by mountains to the north and south. This sacred city is populated only during the Hajj season and is one of the largest temporary settlements in the world. The tent city can accommodate millions of believers, creating a unique atmosphere of spirituality and unity. Saudi Arabia has mobilized all available resources — security services, medical facilities, food and transportation systems — to ensure comfort and safety for pilgrims during the sacred rituals.
Day of Tarwiyah: The Beginning of the Sacred Journey
The Day of Tarwiyah, the eighth day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, is considered the official start of Hajj. On this day, pilgrims dressed in Ihram arrive in Mina from early morning, chanting "Labayk Allahumma Labayk" — a prayer signifying the response to the call of the Almighty. Throughout the day and night, believers engage in prayers and reflections, preparing for the next stage — the Standing at the Plain of Arafat, which is considered the culmination of Hajj. Pilgrims remain in Mina until sunrise on Tuesday, performing recommended prayers and reflecting on their spiritual journey.
The Global Significance of Hajj
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and one of the most significant religious practices for Muslims. This five to six-day pilgrimage unites millions of believers from different countries, cultures, and social strata into a single whole. This time, both foreign pilgrims and hundreds of thousands of Saudi citizens arrived in Mina. The atmosphere in the valley of Mina is filled with spirituality — the sounds of Talbiyah resonate throughout the area, creating a sense of participation in an ancient tradition that dates back to the times of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and blessings of Allah).
Organization and Preparation for the Standing at Arafat
Saudi Arabia has prepared all the necessary infrastructure in advance for the smooth conduct of Hajj. Roads and highways leading to Mina were filled with streams of pilgrims — some traveled by vehicle, while others walked. Throughout the day and night, believers perform short prayers (shortened four-unit prayers without combining) in Mina: the noon prayer, afternoon prayer, evening prayer, night prayer, and morning prayer. These preparations are essential for the main ritual — the Standing at the Plain of Arafat, which will take place on Tuesday and is considered a key element of the entire pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Day of Tarwiyah considered the beginning of Hajj?
The Day of Tarwiyah (the eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah) is the first day when pilgrims officially arrive in Mina in a state of Ihram. This day serves as preparation for the main ritual of Hajj — the Standing at Arafat, which occurs the following day and is considered the culmination of the pilgrimage.
How many days do pilgrims stay in Mina?
Pilgrims spend at least one night and day in Mina (the Day of Tarwiyah), then proceed to the Plain of Arafat. After the Standing at Arafat, they return to Mina to perform the ritual of stoning and stay there for several more days according to the rules of Hajj.
What services does Saudi Arabia provide to pilgrims in Mina?
Saudi Arabia provides pilgrims with a full range of services: security, medical assistance, food, water supply, and transportation. Mina is equipped with tents, sanitary facilities, and all necessary amenities for the comfortable stay of millions of believers.
