In the pinnacle of the annual Hajj pilgrimage on Saturday, more than 1.5 million pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat, engaging in hours of earnest prayer. This year’s sermon, delivered by Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly, Imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, carried profound resonance against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Sheikh Al-Muaiqly’s address at Masjid-e-Nimrah underscored the values of cooperation, mutual assistance, and compassion. Emphasizing the significance of Sharia in leading a righteous life, he encouraged pilgrims to pray for themselves, their parents, and their families.
Of particular poignancy were his prayers for the Palestinians enduring oppression and hardship. Sheikh Al-Muaiqly passionately invoked Allah’s aid for those suffering in Gaza, where essential provisions like food and water remain scarce amid ongoing conflict.
“The people of Palestine, where even basic necessities like food and water are lacking, deserve our most urgent prayers,” Sheikh Al-Muaiqly emphasized, highlighting the gravity of the situation and urging the global Muslim community to remember their suffering brethren in supplication.
Reaffirming the core principles of Islam, Sheikh Al-Muaiqly stressed the importance of taqwa (piety) and righteousness. He reminded believers that Allah provides abundantly for the pious and forgives their sins, emphasizing the concept of Tawheed (the oneness of God) and the exclusive authority of Allah.
Despite facing scorching heat, this year’s Hajj pilgrims demonstrated unwavering devotion and resilience, underscoring the impact of climate change on the region. Sheikh Al-Muaiqly’s sermon concluded with a powerful call for peace, compassion, and solidarity, particularly with the oppressed in Gaza. He urged Muslims worldwide to extend prayers and support to those in need, fostering a sense of unity within the global Muslim community.
As the pilgrims concluded their prayers at Mount Arafat, the echoes of peace and compassion resonated strongly, offering hope and solace amidst challenging times.