Sheikh Yusuf bin Muhammad, the Imam of Kaaba, delivered a compelling Hajj sermon on Tuesday, urging Muslims to avoid discord and promote harmony within the Muslim Ummah.
Delivering the sermon from the Nimra Mosque in Arafat, Sheikh Yusuf said: “Never fan the fire and avoid discord. Don’t give rise to discord in the Ummah. Islam has made you brothers and sisters when you were fighting with each other… Help one another in doing good deeds, and break links with those who are envious.”
In his sermon, Sheikh Yusuf likened Muslims to a unified body and stressed the significance of following the commandments of Allah. He emphasised the Quran’s teachings of compassion, love, and the importance of good deeds. The Imam reminded the worshippers that true faith lies in believing in Allah, His Book, and His Messengers.
Sheikh Yusuf highlighted the equal status of believers, irrespective of their nationality or ethnicity, and emphasised forgiveness as a defining trait of a Muslim. He called for the respect and fulfilment of rights within families, including wives, children, and relatives. The Imam also urged pilgrims to treat their parents with fairness and kindness while assisting those in need.
The Hajj sermon was broadcast globally in 20 languages on various digital platforms and media channels, including TV and radio. It aimed to project the noble and moderate image of Islam and reach a wide audience through modern technological means, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.
Hajj, the world’s largest religious gathering, brings together over two million pilgrims annually. After two years of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia lifted all limitations for this year’s Hajj season, hosting pre-pandemic numbers.
The Saudi Hajj authorities have implemented comprehensive measures for the safety and well-being of the pilgrims. Over 30,000 military and police personnel have been deployed to ensure security in the Plain of Arafat. Drones equipped with cameras are being used for monitoring purposes, and checkpoints have been established to regulate access to the plain. Field hospitals staffed with doctors and paramedics, as well as fire brigade units, have been set up to address any medical emergencies.
Hajj is scheduled to take place from 26 June to 1 July, with the celebration of Eid al-Adha on 28 June. The Hajj pilgrimage holds immense religious significance for Muslims worldwide, symbolising unity, faith, and devotion.