Braving Middle East War and Sweltering Heat, Millions Make Pilgrimage to Mecca

More than 1.5 million Muslims have made the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia this week. That's according to Saudi officials. They made the trip amid conflict in the Middle East as a result of the US’ and Israel’s war with Iran. 

The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. The five pillars are the necessary practices of the faith. The Hajj follows the journey made by the Prophet Muhammad on his final pilgrimage in 632 CE. All able-bodied Muslims who can afford the trip are required to make the Hajj once in their lives.    

Muslims follow a lunar calendar. Based on that, Hajj began once the moon rose over Saudi Arabia Sunday night. The observance lasts six days. It consists of a prayerful walk around the cubic Kaaba building in Mecca. That's called a Tawaf. And it includes a hike to nearby Mount Arafat. On the third day of Hajj, Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid al-Adha. It's the Festival of the Sacrifice.    

To perform Hajj, a Muslim enters a state of devotion known as Ihram. “Wearing Ihram symbolizes humility, unity, and the transient nature of earthly life,” the Hajj Council of North America explains. “It’s essential for pilgrims to understand the rules, rituals, and etiquette surrounding Ihram.”    

As in the past few years, pilgrims to Mecca will have to contend with extreme heat. More than 1,300 people died from the heat during Hajj in 2024. And the forecast is calling for similar heat this year. Temps could rise above 105° F throughout the week.    

Reflect: What traditions, beliefs, or experiences help you feel connected to something bigger than yourself?