Haj pilgrims perform symbolic stoning
- 13 years ago
Millions of Muslims rain stones on pillars representing Satan during the last day of their holy pilgrimage.
Up to 3 million people were expected to perform the ritual in Saudi Arabia this year.
After circling the Kaaba in Mecca, Haj pilgrims travel east to Mina where they pray and conduct the symbolic stoning.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JAMAL OTHMAN, A PILGRIM FROM THE UNITED STATES, SAYING:
"It is a very very emotional experience whenever seeing something like that. It's like a journey of a lifetime and I recommend that every Muslim will do it."
Saudi Arabia, which is home to many of Islam's holiest sites, has spent billions on the infrastructure, lodging and security needed for the annual pilgrimage.
Sunday marks the beginning of the religious Eid al-Adha holiday that concludes the Haj season.
Lindsey Parietti, Reuters
Up to 3 million people were expected to perform the ritual in Saudi Arabia this year.
After circling the Kaaba in Mecca, Haj pilgrims travel east to Mina where they pray and conduct the symbolic stoning.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JAMAL OTHMAN, A PILGRIM FROM THE UNITED STATES, SAYING:
"It is a very very emotional experience whenever seeing something like that. It's like a journey of a lifetime and I recommend that every Muslim will do it."
Saudi Arabia, which is home to many of Islam's holiest sites, has spent billions on the infrastructure, lodging and security needed for the annual pilgrimage.
Sunday marks the beginning of the religious Eid al-Adha holiday that concludes the Haj season.
Lindsey Parietti, Reuters