Muslims from around the world have gathered on a holy hill near Mecca in Saudi Arabia for the holiest day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
The ritual on Mount Arafat, known as the Hill of Mercy, is often the most memorable for pilgrims, who stand shoulder to shoulder, feet to feet, asking God for mercy, blessings, prosperity and good health.
Thousands of pilgrims walked to the mount, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Mecca, in the pre-dawn darkness. On the slopes of the rocky hill and its surroundings, many raised their hands in worship with tears streaming down their faces.
“It sure is something great. It is the best day of the year for Muslims and the best feeling anyone can experience,” said Hussein Mohammed, an Egyptian pilgrim, as he stood on the rocky slopes at dawn. “It is the best place for anyone who wants to be [here] on this day and at this moment.”
The Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his final speech, known as the Farewell Sermon, on the holy mount 1,435 years ago. In the sermon, the prophet called for equality and unity among Muslims.
The Hajj is one of the largest religious gatherings on the planet. The rituals officially began on Friday when pilgrims moved from Mecca's Grand Mosque to Mina, a desert plain on the outskirts of the city.
This year's pilgrimage takes place against the heartbreaking backdrop of Israel's continued attack on the Gaza Strip.
