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Saudi Arabia is the holy country- the land that sports the two sacred mosques at Mecca and Medina. Every pious Muslim cherishes the ambition of undertaking the Hajj, a pilgrimage to the city of Mecca. Sightseeing in Mecca and a pilgrimage to this hallowed land is incomplete without a trip to the lesser shrines at the Hill of Arafat in Mecca and Mina in Mecca. Mina is often visited enroute Mecca to the Hill of Arafat. This city is located 5 kilometers east of Mecca and stands on the highway leading from Mecca to the Mount Arafat. It is in this city of Mina near Mecca that the Hajji pilgrims perform the ritual stoning of the Devil (ramy al-jamarat) on the last day of the Hajj. In the low lying Mina valley is the Jamarat Valley. Three pillars stand here, representing Satan or the Devil, the perpetrator of all evil. The pilgrims denounce sin and stone these pillars, pledging allegiance to God and virtue. This ritual, conducted on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, often coincides with the Muslim festival known as Eid al-Adha. The stoning of the Devil represents the pilgrimage undertaken by Abraham and his stoning of the Devil who appeared thrice. Gabriel, the angel is believed to have guided Abraham in this regard. Pebbles are collected from Muzdalifah plain or at Mina in Mecca itself.
Mina in Mecca comes alive, this time of the year, with camps set up especially to cater to the needs of the Hajjis. A frugal meal, fresh water and medication are provided in these camps. Tents are set up for them to rest and the natives take great pride in serving the Hajjis who have undertaken this arduous journey. The government also makes special arrangements to ensure the safety, security and well being of these pilgrims.
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