By; Abdull-Azeez Ahmed Kadir, Makkah.
Tuesday 27 June, 2023 equivalent to Islamic calendar 9th Dhul Hijjah 1444, over two million pilgrims from across the globe converged on Arafah to observe the day in accordance with Hajj rites.
The convergence on the plains of Arafah is one of the most important pillars of the annual pilgrim rites.
As early as 12 midnight, the pilgrims began the movement from Muna to Arafah, and would later move to Muzdalifah where they would pass the night before moving to Jamrat for the symbolic stoning.
These rituals mark the peak of Hajj rites for the pilgrims.
The pilgrims would be on the plains of Arafah today, where they will observe the Dhuhr and Asr prayers to sunset, supplicating to God, asking for His forgiveness, compassion, favours, for themselves, families, communities, prayers for their nations for peace, progress, growth, development and for the entire human race.
As is usual, Nigerian Islamic leaders performing the Hajj are expected to lead group prayers for the nation and humanity as a whole.
At sunset, the pilgrims will move to Muzdalifah where they will observe the Magrib and Isha’i prayers in combination and pass the night on bare floor irrespective of social status.
They will make a detour after the dawn prayer, for the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamrat before proceeding to Makkah; about 7 kilometers to perform Tawaf, barb, shave, bath and change clothes before moving back to Mina.
Mount Arafah was where the prophet of Islam observed the last sermon. It is a place where the sins of pilgrims are forgiven for the past and next one year.
Those not performing Hajj are also encouraged to observe fast and supplicate to Allah.
95,000 Nigerians are observing the 2023 Hajj exercise.
