Muslim pilgrims gathered in Mina, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil, the final major ritual of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. From dawn, crowds of worshippers threw pebbles at three concrete pillars representing Satan, reenacting the Prophet Abraham's rejection of the devil's temptations.
Climactic Ritual
The stoning ceremony is the last of several rites that pilgrims must complete. This year, more than 1.7 million people are participating in the Hajj, which is a mandatory act of worship for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. The event took place under scorching heat, with temperatures reaching 45 degrees Celsius on Tuesday when pilgrims prayed atop Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon.
Night at Muzdalifah
After Arafat, pilgrims spent the night in Muzdalifah, an open area between Arafat and Mina, collecting pebbles for the stoning. The following day, they proceeded to Mina to cast the stones at the pillars, symbolizing the defeat of evil.
Eid Al-Adha Celebration
The final day of Hajj coincides with Eid Al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, which commemorates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael. In observance, many pilgrims sacrifice a sheep, distributing part of the meat to the poor. After the stoning, pilgrims return to Makkah to perform a final circumambulation of the Kaaba, the sacred structure at the Grand Mosque.
