King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, chose to focus on the unity of Islam and the importance of interfaith dialogue in his address to this year's pilgrims. That unity is clearly on display with the enormous mix of nationalities, ethnic backgrounds, race and gender that makes its way to Makkah every year. The King said Muslims should use the Haj to “revive and renew their relations and strengthen the bonds of fraternity, love and cohesion”. The Monarch said he is always filled with “great delight and pleasure” to see Muslims from all over the world come together for Haj. He said Haj is “a clear sign of the Divine Will to unite the Ummah and reaffirm the oneness of the Creator”. Haj also embodies “equality and justice”. “Almighty Allah ordained this annual obligation to serve as a gathering place for the believers, the sons of one religion.” This annual obligation, of course, falls on Saudi Arabia as the host of the Two Holy Mosques and other holy sites. Despite the sometimes overwhelming logistical battle to make Haj a successful event, “Almighty Allah has made matters easy for us to fulfill our obligations toward the worshippers,” the King said. Indeed, this year's Haj offered some significant innovations to make the pilgrimage a more accessible event for everyone. Even the wheel-chair bound are visiting the Grand Mosque and other holy sites in ways particular to our time. This year we have seen a peaceful Haj, one devoid of political disruption and dedicated to those seeking a religious experience and they have done it in unique comfort. Only next year will see new improvements made to the Haj experience. __
