Introduction-What is Rami al-Jamarat?
Rami al-Jamarat, or the Stoning of the Devil, is an important part of Hajj, the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca. This ritual shows how Prophet Ibrahim (AS) rejected Satan and stayed true to Allah (SWT). Each year, millions of people come together to perform this act, which is an important part of Hajj. It helps pilgrims feel spiritually clean and closer to Allah.
In this ritual, pilgrims throw small pebbles at three pillars called the Jamarat. These pillars represent the Devil. Throwing the pebbles means rejecting evil and getting rid of sins. It is a way for pilgrims to show they are committed to following Allah (SWT).
Rami al-Jamarat is important because it follows the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It reminds pilgrims to stay strong in their faith and resist evil. By doing this ritual, pilgrims show they are dedicated to living a good and righteous life, just like Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
Historical Background and Significance
The Rami symbolically is Hazrat Ibrahim’s (AS) actions when he was commanded to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (AS). In response to the command, Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) demonstrated reliance and trust in the will of Allah (SWT).
To read more about the Tawakkul: Tawakkul in Allah (SWT)
On the way to carry out the act of sacrifice, Satan repeatedly tried to tempt him into disobeying Allah’s (SWT) command. However, Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) remained steadfast in his faith. When they reached the location where Jamarat is situated today, Satan tried to discourage Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) again. Hazrat Jibril (AS) instructed Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) to throw seven stones at Satan, which he did, and Satan fled. They continued to Jamarat al-Wusta, where Satan appeared again. Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) threw stones at Satan, and he fled. Finally, they reached Jamarat al-Ula, where Satan appeared for the last time. Once again, Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) threw stones at him, and Satan fled for the third time.
Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) resisted temptation each time and remained steadfast in obeying Allah’s (SWT) command. Pilgrims reenact this act of opposition against Satan during the Hajj. It teaches us the importance of trusting in Allah’s (SWT) plan, even when it seems difficult or impossible to understand, and the rewards that come with steadfast faith and devotion.
The Night in Muzdalifah
The night spent in Muzdalifah is an essential part of the Hajj pilgrimage. It takes place right after the Day of Arafat, the high point of the Hajj. This night is known for its simplicity and spiritual reflection and serves as a preparation for the Ramy al-Jamarat.
During the night before Rami al-Jamarat, pilgrims gather pebbles in Muzdalifah for the Ramy. The pebbles are collected in Muzdalifah as a symbolic act of careful preparation and obedience to the Sunnah (practices) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
For more information about Muzdalifah, read this blog post: Muzdalifah – A Night of Reflection and Preparation during Hajj.
The Process of Rami al-Jamarat
This act of worship is performed during the Hajj pilgrimage and symbolizes the rejection of the temptation of Satan. Here is a step-by-step guide on how the Stoning is performed during Hajj:
- Before starting, make sure you are in a state of wudu (ritual purity).
- The ritual is performed in the State of Ihram, showing the pilgrim’s intent to renounce evil.
- The process begins by pelting stones at the smallest pillar, Jamarah al-Ula, followed by the medium one, Jamarah al-Wusta, and ends with the largest, Jamarah al-Aqaba.
- Stand at least 15 feet (5 meters) from the pillar and hold seven or more pebbles in your left hand. Position yourself in a way that Mina is on your right and Makkah is on your left.
- When throwing each pebble, grasp it between your thumb and index finger, raise your hand high, and recite the Takbir – Dua (“Allahu Akbar”). Once the first pebble hits the target, stop repeating the Talbiyah. Continue the process until you have thrown all seven pebbles.
- Once you have completed the Stoning, step aside from the crowd to make dua (supplication) while facing the Qibla (direction of the Kaaba). This act of devotion carries deep meaning for reaffirming faith and commitment to living a life guided by the principles of Islam.
Stoning of the Jamarat: A Detailed Guide
Yawm al-Nahr is the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah and the third day of Hajj. On this day, pilgrims perform the Rami at Jamarah al-Aqaba. However, there are various times of the day when pelting is more virtuous than other times. These times are as follows:
- Before Fajr Salah: Pelting is not allowed during this time.
- Between Fajr Salah and Sunrise: It is disliked (Makruh) for men to perform Rami at this time, but it remains valid and permissible for women, older people, and the infirm.
- Sunrise to midday (10 minutes before the beginning of Dhuhr salah) – Sunnah. Try to perform Ramy at this time, provided it isn’t too crowded.
- Between Sunset and Fajr Salah (of the 11th): It is Makruh for men to perform Rami, but it is still valid and permissible for women, older people, and the infirm.
It is not Makruh for a man who is a Mahram to assist a woman in pelting during the times it is Makruh for other men.
The Days of Drying Meat (Ayyam al-Tashreeq) fall on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah, which are days four, five, and six of the Hajj. During these days, pilgrims perform Rami at all three pillars each day. Traditionally, Ayyam al-Tashreeq meaning the meat from the sacrificed animals was used for drying and processing in these days.
The Hadith reported by Hazrat Jabir (RA) in Sahih Muslim guides the timing and sequence of these acts performed by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during Hajj.
“Allah’s Messenger (SAW) flung pebbles at jamra on the Day of Nahr after sunrise, and after that (i. e. on the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhu’l-Hijja when the sun had declined.”
[Sahih Muslim 1299b]
Here are some practical tips for performing the Stoning of the Jamarat
- The Stoning of the Jamarat can be crowded and intense. Keep self-control, move slowly, and be patient with others.
- Make sure you are well-hydrated and rested before undertaking the ritual. Dehydration and fatigue can exacerbate the challenges of the crowded environment.
- Try to perform the ritual during off-peak hours when the crowds are smaller, such as early morning or late evening.
- Use small pebbles for the Stoning, as large stones can cause injury to yourself or others.
- If you need help during the ritual, don’t hesitate to ask nearby pilgrims or authorities for help.
By following these practical tips, you can securely and respectfully perform the Stoning of the Jamarat and enhance your spirituality.
Rami on Behalf of Others
Pelting can be done on behalf of others if he is:
- Too old
- Sick
- Very weak
- Pregnant
Large crowds are not an excuse to have Rami perform on your behalf. If you are feeling apprehensive or anxious about the ritual, perform Ramy at a time when it is less crowded. If you appoint someone to pelt on your behalf for this reason, it won’t be valid and will sustain a penalty.
You are pelting on someone’s behalf, make sure you have their permission and they are happy for you to do so. If you don’t get their permission, it will be considered invalid.
The method of pelting on behalf of someone else is as follows:
- Pelt your seven pebbles at the Jamarah, one at a time.
- Pelt the seven pebbles for the person you’re deputising for, one at a time.
- Move to the next Jamarah and repeat the process (if it’s the 11th, 12th or 13th).
Individuals can pelt on behalf of someone else.
Safety Measures and Modern Arrangements
Saudi authorities have implemented safety measures and modern arrangements to manage crowds during the Stoning of the Jamarat. Here are some of the key safety measures and modern arrangements:
Improved Infrastructure
Saudi Arabia expanded and renovated the Jamarat bridge to improve crowd flow during the stoning ritual as part of their investment in infrastructure to accommodate more pilgrims.
Multiple Levels of Jamarat Bridge
The Jamarat bridge has multiple levels to ease the movement of pilgrims, preventing overcrowding and ensuring a smoother flow during the ritual.
Surveillance and Crowd Management
Authorities use advanced surveillance technology, such as CCTV cameras and crowd monitoring systems, to oversee pilgrims’ movements. This allows them to identify potential risks or overcrowding situations and take proactive measures to ensure safety.
Overall, the safety measures and modern arrangements established by Saudi authorities aim to ensure a smooth and secure experience for pilgrims during the Stoning of the Jamarat.
FAQs About Rami al-Jamarat
Yes, Ramy al-Jamarat is mandatory for all pilgrims performing the Hajj pilgrimage. It is one of the integral rituals of Hajj and involves the symbolic Stoning of three pillars representing Satan.
It is generally not permissible for someone else to be stoned on behalf of another person as a legal punishment. However, during the Hajj pilgrimage, if someone cannot carry out the Stoning due to serious illness, insanity, unconsciousness, or other unbearable hardship, another person can perform the act on their behalf. This is only allowed if the person believes they cannot carry out the Stoning during the ritual period. For more specific guidance, please consult a reliable religious authority.
If someone misses the stoning ritual during the Hajj pilgrimage, it’s important to make up for it as soon as possible.
When a pilgrim cannot perform a ritual, such as in the case of the Hajj pilgrimage in Islam, provisions exist that allow others to assist or represent them.
What Happens After Rami al-Jamarat?
After completing the Rami al-Jamarat, pilgrims continue with other important rituals of Hajj:
- Sacrifice (Qurbani): Pilgrims sacrifice an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, to honor Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat is then distributed to the poor, friends, and family.
- Hair Cutting or Shaving (Halq or Taqsir): Men shave their heads or cut a portion of their hair, while women cut a small lock of hair. This act symbolizes purification and renewal.
- Tawaf al-Ifadah: Pilgrims return to the Kaaba to perform another Tawaf, which involves circling the Kaaba seven times. This Tawaf is a key part of completing the Hajj rituals.
- Sa’i: Pilgrims walk back and forth (sa’ee) seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, reenacting Hajar’s (AS) search for water for her son Ismail (AS).
These steps signify the completion of the major rituals of Hajj and mark the pilgrims’ dedication and obedience to Allah (SWT). After these rituals, pilgrims continue to reflect on their journey and seek to maintain the spiritual gains they have made during Hajj.
Conclusion
Rami al-Jamarat serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual journey that pilgrims undertake during the Hajj. This symbolic act helps pilgrims purify their souls and strengthen their devotion to Allah (SWT). The experience unites them and helps them find renewed purpose as they continue their pilgrimage towards spiritual understanding.
The Hajj pilgrimage is a perfect example of the deep connection between the physical actions and spiritual meanings of the pilgrims. The series of physically demanding yet spiritually important rituals are intended to instil a sense of humility, devotion, and submission to Allah (SWT). These rituals serve as a reminder to the pilgrims of the fleeting nature of earthly life and the significance of prioritizing spiritual growth and divine accountability.
