Day 11- Pray for Muslims on Hajj

Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, so all Muslims make great efforts to make the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.

Usually, over 2 million people attend Hajj each year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, Saudi Arabia did not allow pilgrims from other nations and strictly limited numbers. In 2020, only 1000 pilgrims were allowed, and in 2021, 60,000. In 2022, Hajj was re-opened to foreign visitors but only 1 million pilgrims were permitted.

Many Muslims save for years to be able to afford Hajj, so the last couple of years will have been disappointing for many who hoped to go. During Hajj Muslims participate in a series of rituals over several days. These are performed in obedience to God and as a duty for all Muslims. The rituals commemorate events in the life of Muhammad and other prophets and honor symbols of God. Pilgrims from all parts of life are united in their faith at Hajj and believe that the journey allows them to be purified and return home with a heart cleansed from sin.

In recent years, stories have emerged of several Muslims seeing dreams and visions of Jesus while on Hajj. Pray that this would increase!

How to Pray

• In 2023, Hajj begins on June 26. Pray for the health and safety of all those who participate.
• During Hajj, Muslims are seeking a deeper devotion to God. Pray that they will find new life in Christ.
• Pray for Muslims in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Mecca, to have supernatural revelations of Jesus.