Muslim pilgrims performed the symbolic stoning of the devil ritual in the Valley of Mina on Wednesday, May 27 [1].
This ritual, known as Jamarat, serves as the final act of the Hajj pilgrimage. It transitions the religious observance from the intensive rites of the pilgrimage into the celebration of Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar.
The event took place southeast of Mecca in Saudi Arabia [2]. Pilgrims throw pebbles at three pillars to commemorate the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God [3]. The act symbolizes the rejection of temptation and the devil.
Approximately 1.8 million pilgrims were present in Mina during the 2026 Hajj [4]. The scale of the gathering requires significant coordination by Saudi authorities to manage the flow of people through the valley to prevent overcrowding during the stoning process.
Wednesday, May 27, also marked the first day of Eid al-Adha [1]. While some reports indicate the main Hajj rituals began on Monday, May 25, the stoning of the devil remains the pivotal transition into the festive period [5].
The ritual is performed by millions of believers from across the globe. Participants gather at the Jamarat Bridge, where they cast stones at the pillars in a choreographed sequence to ensure safety and order.
“The symbolic Jamarat ritual in the Valley of Mina marks the conclusion of Hajj.”
The completion of the Jamarat ritual signifies the spiritual culmination of the Hajj for millions of Muslims. By linking the end of the pilgrimage to the start of Eid al-Adha, the event connects personal spiritual renewal with a global community celebration of faith and sacrifice.
