At the pinnacle of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, over 1.5 million pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat to engage in intense prayer. This year’s Hajj sermon, delivered by Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly, resonated deeply amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Sheikh Al-Muaiqly’s sermon at Masjid-e-Nimrah emphasized the importance of cooperation, mutual assistance, and compassion, highlighting the significance of Sharia in leading a righteous life. He urged the pilgrims to pray for themselves, their parents, and their relatives, emphasizing the power and value of their prayers, while also offering urgent prayers for the Palestinians suffering in Gaza.
The Most Deserving of Prayer: The People of Palestine
The plight of the Palestinians suffering from oppression and brutality was particularly poignant in Sheikh Al-Muaiqly’s sermon. His deep concern for the dire situation in Gaza prompted urgent prayers for those enduring hardships, emphasizing the scarcity of basic necessities such as food and water due to the ongoing conflict. His plea underscored the severity of the crisis, urging the global Muslim community to remember their suffering brothers and sisters in their prayers.
Message of Taqwa and Righteousness
Sheikh Al-Muaiqly reiterated the central tenets of Islam, urging believers to maintain taqwa (piety) and righteousness. He explained that Taqwa is not just about performing religious rituals, but also about being mindful of Allah in all aspects of life. He emphasized that Allah provides for the pious from unimaginable sources and forgives their sins. He stressed the importance of trust in Allah and the significance of justice, integrity, and the avoidance of corruption and obscenity, calling on Muslims to uphold these values in their daily lives.
Challenges and Resilience
This year’s Hajj pilgrims faced scorching heat, serving as a stark reminder of the impact of climate change on the region. Despite the challenging conditions, the spirit of devotion and resilience among the pilgrims remains undeterred.
Sheikh Al-Muaiqly’s sermon was a powerful call for peace, compassion, and solidarity, especially with the oppressed in Gaza. He urged the faithful to not only extend their prayers but also their support, whether through donations, advocacy, or other means, to those in need. He emphasized that by doing so, we can foster a sense of global Muslim unity and make a tangible difference in the lives of the oppressed.
As the pilgrims concluded their prayers at Mount Arafat, the messages of peace and compassion echoed strongly, offering hope and solace to many amidst these turbulent times. Sheikh Al-Muaiqly reminded the audience of the importance of maintaining hope and faith, even in the face of adversity, as it is through these that we find strength and resilience.
