Pilgrims, who have already arrived in Makkah for this year's Haj, climb Jabal Al-Rahma (the Mount of Mercy) on Thursday in the holy site of the Plain of Arafat, about 20 kilometers east of Makkah. Standing on Arafat (or Wuquf) is performed on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, called Yawm Al-Wuquf, “Standing Day.” The favored spot to stand is Jabal Al-Rahma, a rocky hill rising about 150 feet above the plain and crowned by a tall white stone obelisk. According to Islamic teachings, the Wuquf is the climax of Haj rituals. Every pilgrim must literally be present at Arafat at sunset or the Haj is forfeited. – Okaz/SG photo by Saleh Ba
