The Spiritual Significance of the Hajj 2025 Sermon

The Hajj 2025 sermon, delivered by Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid, resonated deeply with millions of Muslims who gathered at Masjid Namirah in Arafat. His powerful message emphasized taqwa (God-consciousness), the unity of the Muslim Ummah, and unwavering support for Palestine.

As millions stood under the blazing sun on the plains of Arafat, the sermon reminded believers of Islam’s core principles—faith, worship, and social ethics. The Sheikh encouraged Muslims to uphold truthfulness, modesty, kindness to parents and neighbors, and avoid harmful practices such as gossip (gheebah) and innovation in religion (bid’ah).

The Imam’s heartfelt supplication for the people of Palestine evoked emotion among pilgrims, reinforcing the global solidarity of the Muslim community in times of trial.

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A Call for Taqwa and Piety

One of the central themes of the Hajj 2025 sermon was taqwa. The Imam reminded pilgrims that true success lies in fearing Allah, maintaining sincerity in worship, and trusting His divine wisdom. He emphasized that Allah is with those who are patient, and that salvation in both this world and the Hereafter is found through righteousness and faith.

Dr. Humaid stressed that worship belongs to Allah alone, and reaffirmed the Islamic belief in all prophets, particularly the final messenger, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was sent as a mercy to mankind.

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Unity Among Muslims and Support for Palestine

In light of the ongoing crisis in Palestine, Sheikh Dr. Humaid used the global platform of Hajj to deliver a poignant plea:

“O Allah, support our brothers in Palestine. Grant them strength, patience, and victory.”

This powerful moment in the Hajj 2025 sermon reminded pilgrims of the responsibility of the Ummah to stand united and support the oppressed. He prayed for guidance for world leaders and peace for all believers, urging Muslims to become beacons of justice, compassion, and solidarity.

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Annual Pilgrimage in Full Swing

The Hajj pilgrimage officially began as over 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world arrived in Mina for the Day of Tarwiyah, retracing the sacred footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Pilgrims from Pakistan, numbering over 115,000, arrived through both government and private schemes.

After donning the ihram, pilgrims performed Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf) at the Holy Kaaba and began their spiritual journey. They offered two rakats of prayer and made their niyyah (intention) for Hajj before heading to Mina.

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The Pinnacle of Hajj: Standing at Arafat

On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims proceed to Arafat, the most important stop of the Hajj journey. Here, they listen to the Hajj sermon, pray Zuhr and Asr combined, and stand in humble supplication (Wuquf-e-Arafat) until sunset.

Following Arafat, they move to Muzdalifah, where Maghrib and Isha prayers are offered together, and pebbles are collected for the stoning ritual.

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Ramy al-Jamarat and the Days of Tashreeq

On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, the sacred act of Ramy al-Jamarat takes place, where pilgrims stone the largest devil (Jamarat al-Aqaba). Afterward, they perform animal sacrifice, and male pilgrims shave their heads (halq) while female pilgrims trim their hair, marking the end of Ihram.

In the days that follow (11th–13th Dhul-Hijjah), pilgrims continue the stoning rituals at the three Jamarat (small, medium, and large) and perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah followed by Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.

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Advanced Measures for Pilgrim Safety and Comfort

Saudi authorities deployed 250,000 personnel and utilized artificial intelligence, drones, and advanced logistics to manage the pilgrimage smoothly. Over 8,000 buses were used to transport pilgrims from Makkah to Mina, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Due to high temperatures, the Ministry of Health advised pilgrims to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours, and use protective gear such as white umbrellas.

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A Journey of a Lifetime

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, remains the largest annual gathering of Muslims, drawing people from over 100 countries, including guests hosted by King Salman himself. The valley of Mina echoed with “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik”, a chant of submission and devotion.

The sermon of Hajj 2025 reminded the global Muslim community of their shared faith, struggles, and responsibilities. It was a timeless call for taqwa, unity, and action—a reminder that while the pilgrimage may end, its lessons must echo in the lives of every pilgrim long after they return home.