Millions of Muslims from across the globe assembled in Mecca on Tuesday to hear the annual Hajj sermon, delivered at the plains of Arafat, marking the spiritual peak of the pilgrimage.
Worshippers congregated in large numbers at Mount Arafat, where Sheikh Dr Ali bin Abdulrahman Al-Hudaifi presented the Khutbah-e-Hajj as part of the official proceedings.
The sermon commenced with praise for Allah and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The preacher emphasized that Hajj is a divine obligation ordained by Allah for all believers.
He warned of the severe earthquake on the Day of Judgement and highlighted that the ultimate success in the hereafter lies in Tawheed—the oneness of God. He condemned those who commit shirk, explaining that they invoke powerless entities incapable of providing benefit or harm.
The preacher added that those who fear God will receive double rewards in paradise, noting that God favors those who exhibit patience.
He recalled that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by Allah to proclaim the Hajj, a call that has reached believers worldwide, uniting them in worship and harmony.
The sermon underscored the diverse backgrounds of the pilgrims, describing their gathering as a clear sign from God, with angels reportedly taking pride in the congregation of worshippers.
He outlined the pilgrimage schedule, noting that pilgrims would remain at Arafat before moving to Muzdalifah the next day, then proceeding to Mina to continue their remembrance of God.
The preacher detailed the sequence of rituals, including the days spent in Mina and the final Tawaf before pilgrims depart.
He urged attendees to avoid disputes, sins, and any behavior that could disrupt unity, emphasizing that true piety is reflected in respecting the “symbols of God.”
Throughout the rites, pilgrims were encouraged to remain engaged in prayer, remembrance, and worship, consistently seeking forgiveness and performing Hajj with utmost sincerity.
In his closing prayer, he asked Allah to safeguard all pilgrims, grant them safe returns, accept their Hajj, and unite their hearts in truth. He also prayed for the forgiveness of sins, better conditions for Muslims worldwide, and guidance for the faithful.
Reiterating that “the greatest success is Tawheed,” the sermon concluded by stressing the importance of gratitude for God’s blessings and steadfastness in faith for spiritual triumph.
