Steps of Hajj, the Islamic Pilgrimage to Mecca

By Huda, About.com Guide

On the third day, the pilgrims move before sunrise, this time back to Mina. Here they throw their stone pebbles at pillars that represent the temptations of Satan. When throwing the stones, the pilgrims recall the story of Satan’s attempt to dissuade Prophet Abraham from following God’s command to sacrifice his son. The stones represent Abraham’s rejection of Satan and the firmness of his faith.

After casting the pebbles, most pilgrims slaughter an animal (often a sheep or a goat) and give away the meat to the poor. This is a symbolic act that shows their willingness to part with something that is precious to them, just as the Prophet Abraham was prepared to sacrifice his son at God’s command.

Throughout the world, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, on this day. This is the second of the two major holidays in Islam each year.

Previous

• Before Hajj
• Day 1 of the Pilgrimage (8th of Dhul-Hijjah)
• Day 2 of the Pilgrimage (9th of Dhul-Hijjah)
• Day 3 of the Pilgrimage (10th of Dhul-Hijjah)
• Subsequent Days of the Pilgrimage
• After Hajj

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