MUNA (Jumrat)...

The Jamarat (الجمرات) are three stone structures located in Mina, approximately 8 kilometers east of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. They are among the most significant sites of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where millions of Muslims perform the ritual of Ramy al-Jamarat (stoning the Jamarat). This act commemorates the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), who rejected the temptations of Shaytan while carrying out Allah's command. According to Islamic tradition, as Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) was preparing to fulfill Allah's command, Shaytan appeared to him three times in different locations in Mina to discourage him. Each time, Angel Jibreel (A.S.) instructed Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) to throw seven small pebbles at Shaytan. Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) obeyed, driving Shaytan away at every location. This event became a lasting symbol of resisting temptation and remaining steadfast in faith. Today, pilgrims recreate this act by throwing pebbles at the three Jamarat during the days of Hajj. The ritual is not directed at a physical devil but symbolizes rejecting evil, sinful desires, and all influences that distance a believer from Allah. The Three Jamarat 1. Jamrat al-Sughra (الجَمْرَةُ الصُّغْرَى) The Small Jamarah. It is the first pillar encountered by pilgrims. On the 11th and 12th of Dhul-Hijjah (and the 13th for those who remain), pilgrims throw seven pebbles at this Jamarah. 2. Jamrat al-Wusta (الجَمْرَةُ الْوُسْطَى) The Middle Jamarah. It is the second pillar in Mina. Pilgrims throw seven pebbles here after completing the Small Jamarah. 3. Jamrat al-Aqabah (الجَمْرَةُ الْكُبْرَى) Also called the Largest Jamarah. It is the closest Jamarah to Makkah. On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah (Eid al-Adha), pilgrims first throw seven pebbles only at Jamrat al-Aqabah. This marks the beginning of several Hajj rites performed on the Day of Sacrifice. Ramy al-Jamarat (Stoning Ritual) The ritual is performed as follows: 10th Dhul-Hijjah: Seven pebbles are thrown only at Jamrat al-Aqabah. 11th Dhul-Hijjah: Seven pebbles are thrown at each of the three Jamarat (21 pebbles total). 12th Dhul-Hijjah: Seven pebbles are again thrown at each of the three Jamarat (21 pebbles total). 13th Dhul-Hijjah (optional): Pilgrims staying an extra day repeat the same ritual (21 pebbles). A pilgrim who stays until the 13th throws a total of 70 pebbles, while one who departs after the 12th throws 49 pebbles. The Modern Jamarat Bridge To safely accommodate millions of pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has developed the Jamarat Bridge, a multi-level structure designed to improve crowd movement and enhance safety. The bridge includes: Multiple levels for pedestrian flow. Separate entry and exit routes. Emergency access points. Advanced crowd management systems. Escalators, elevators, and ventilation. Continuous surveillance and security monitoring. These improvements have significantly increased the safety and efficiency of performing Ramy during Hajj. Spiritual Lessons The ritual of Ramy al-Jamarat teaches Muslims to: Obey Allah without hesitation. Resist the whispers and temptations of Shaytan. Strengthen faith, patience, and self-control. Renew commitment to righteousness. Remember the sacrifice and submission of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.).