Mina, Saudi Arabia – Crowds of pilgrims cast stones at walls that represent the devil on this, the third day of the annual hajj.
Muslim pilgrims gather to perform the 'Jamarat', the throwing of stones, during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Nov. 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
The pilgrims then shave their heads, perform a ritual of animal sacrifice, and celebrate the three day global festival of Eid al-Adha which is the most important holiday of the Islamic calendar.
The Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca, is currently the largest annual pilgrimage in the world. The hajj is a religious duty for every Muslim able to carry it out and an opportunity to cleanse one’s sins before God.
An Iranian pilgrim walks past posters after an anti-US protest at the Iranian camp on the Plain of Arafat near in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
The stoning rituals will be repeated for two more days, ending the pilgrimage.
Muslim pilgrim throw pebbles at a stone pillar representing the devil, during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Nov. 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
Comments
Where is PETA when you need them?
I wonder why the politically correct people in the West can't see the idiocy of islam. Stupidity, apathy, ????
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!