Pilgrims prepare for Arafat as Hajj commences in Mina

Muscat: Pilgrims flocked to Mina on the morning of the eighth day of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH to perform the Day of Tarwiyah, the first stage of the Hajj rituals, in an atmosphere filled with faith and humility.

 Mina, located in the heart of Makkah, is a central hub for Hajj rituals, where pilgrims gather to perform Hajj rituals of remembrance and supplication, reciting the Talbiyah frequently. 

On the Day of Tarwiyah, pilgrims spend their time in Mina, reciting remembrance, glorifying, and declaring Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest), and performing the five daily prayers, shortened without combining them, in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of God be upon him).

Pilgrims spend the night in Mina on the night of Tarwiyah, preparing spiritually and psychologically for the journey to Arafat on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, where the Great Stand (Waqfa al-Kubra), the greatest pillar of Hajj, will take place. The name "Tarwiyah" is associated with the Prophet Mohammad's replenishment of water before performing the rituals. 

After the Day of Tarwiyah, standing in Arafat, and spending the night in Muzdalifah, pilgrims return to Mina to throw the pebbles at Jamarat al-Aqaba on the day of Eid. They then spend the Days of Tashreeq performing the rituals, including stoning the three Jamarat (stones) daily from noon until sunset. Spending the nights of Tashreeq in Mina during the Nights of Tashreeq is obligatory, except for those who have a legitimate need to leave. These days are an opportunity for pilgrims to complete the Hajj rituals in an atmosphere of contemplation and remembrance.

Mina is located 7 kilometers northeast of the Grand Mosque, within the boundaries of the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. It extends through a valley surrounded by mountains to the north and south, giving it a distinct geographical character. It is bordered to the Makkah side by Jamarat al-Aqaba, and to the Muzdalifah side by Wadi Muhsir. Mina is a designated place for performing Hajj rituals, as it is only inhabited during the Hajj season, making it a symbol that unites Muslims from all over the world.

Mina is also a temporary city equipped with the latest facilities to accommodate millions of pilgrims. It includes air-conditioned camps, sanitary facilities, medical services, and security to ensure the comfort and safety of the guests of God.