Muslims On Hajj In Saudi Arabia Begin Ascent Of Holy Site
More than 2 million Muslims are gathering today on Mount Arafat and the surrounding plains at one of the cornerstones of the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is said to have delivered his farewell sermon on the rocky desert hill 14 centuries ago. Muslims believe that on this day the doors of heaven open to answer prayers and grant forgiveness. "It is an indescribable feeling," Syrian pilgrim Muhammad Babaki told Reuters at the foot of Mount Arafat. "On this day of forgiveness, we hope that God forgives all and accepts their pilgrimage." Tens of thousands of white-robed pilgrims began their ascent from the tent city of Mina at dawn, chanting: "Here I am, God, answering your calling.” Charities and vendors handed out food and umbrellas to protect the pilgrims from the sun. The hajj began November 14 with pilgrims flowing from the city of Mecca or directly into Mina. After sunset, the pilgrims will move to Muzdalifa to coll