The Hajj to Mecca and Medina has officially started in Saudi Arabia today. Hajj is one of the main duties of a Muslim, giving him indulgences and opening the path to an afterlife. A true Muslims needs to do Hajj at least once in his life.
ITAR-TASS reports that this year Saudi Arabia will only allow people with special passes into the state. Such measures were initiated three years ago.
Some limitations were introduced this year. Smoking at the holy places was banned. Sleeping on the floor was forbidden. The clergy says that Saudi Arabia is trying to care for the health and security of pilgrims.
Over 2 million Muslims from all over the world will arrive for Hajj. The quota for Russian Muslims was increased from 2,000 to 22,500. It is the first time that Muslims arriving a week ahead of the Hajj have started to perform some rituals beforehand. Prices for visiting the state increased significantly this year.
The 8th day is Zu-l Hijja. Millions of Muslims will wear white clothes, symbolizing ikhram (a symbol of spiritual clarity). They will travel 25 km to Mount Ararat in the Valleys of Mina and Muzdalifah. Most Muslims travel on foot. Those unable to walk may use minibuses travelling at the speed of people. They will spend the whole day praying.
