MOUNT ARAFAT – In a moving Hajj sermon at Masjid Nimrah, Sheikh Saleh bin Hamid, Imam of Masjid al-Haram, made an emotional prayer for Palestine and urged Muslims to embrace unity, piety, and righteousness.
Call for Divine Help for Palestine
Addressing millions of pilgrims on the plains of Arafat, Sheikh Saleh bin Hamid passionately prayed for the oppressed people of Palestine. “O Allah, help our brothers in Palestine. Destroy those who kill women and children,” he pleaded, calling for divine justice against oppressors and healing for the wounded.
Emphasis on Piety and Islamic Values
Throughout his sermon, the Imam focused on Taqwa (piety), humility, and righteous conduct. He warned against pride, backbiting, innovations (Bid’ah), and mischief, urging Muslims to uphold sincerity, modesty, and truthfulness. “Emaan (faith) and Haya (modesty) are inseparable virtues,” he said.
Unity, Worship, and Accountability
Sheikh Saleh reminded pilgrims that true success lies in worshipping Allah alone, maintaining strong belief in the Day of Judgment, and fulfilling religious obligations. He encouraged Muslims to keep promises, uphold family ties, and strive to be among the righteous and truthful.
Special Prayers and Hajj Rituals
The Imam urged pilgrims to take advantage of the sacred moments in Arafat for making heartfelt duas. He also prayed for King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Following the sermon, pilgrims performed combined Zuhr and Asr prayers before heading to Muzdalifah for the night.
Continuing Hajj Rituals
On 10th Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims will perform Ramy al-Jamarat, offer sacrifices, and remove the Ihram. The rituals will conclude with stoning at Mina, Tawaf al-Ziyarah, and Sa’i. Pilgrims staying until 13th Dhul-Hijjah will complete one final stoning before departing.
