Stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah: A Guide for Hajj Pilgrims in Mina
After performing wukuf in Arafah and spending the night in Muzdalifah, pilgrims proceed to Mina to perform the crucial obligatory Hajj ritual of stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah. This takes place on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, coinciding with Eid al-Adha.
Stoning the jamarat is not merely a physical ritual but symbolises humanity’s resistance to Satan’s temptations and steadfast faith following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Here is a comprehensive guide to performing the stoning of Jamrat al-Aqabah.
According to fiqh rules, the time for stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah begins after midnight (dawn) on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. However, pilgrims must observe specific time divisions for safety and focus.
Unlike the Days of Tashriq (11th, 12th, 13th Dhul-Hijjah) when pilgrims stone three jamarat, on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah they only stone one pillar: Jamrat al-Aqabah (the pillar closest to Mecca).
بِسْمِ اللهِ وَاللهُ أَكْبَرُ رَجْمًا لِلشَّيَاطِينِ وَرِضًا لِلرَّحْمَنِ
“Bismillahi wallahu akbar, rajman lisy-syayathini wa ridhan lir-rahman.”
Translation: “In the name of Allah, Allah is Greatest. Stoning Satan and seeking the pleasure of the Most Merciful.”
To ensure safety and validity of the ritual, pilgrims must observe the following:
Stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah recalls the incident when Satan tried to dissuade Prophet Ibrahim (AS) from sacrificing his son Ismail as commanded by Allah. Ibrahim then stoned Satan. This act teaches pilgrims to discard negative traits, egoism, and all temptations that hinder obedience to the Creator.
After completing the stoning of Jamrat al-Aqabah, pilgrims may perform Tahallul Awwal (shaving or cutting hair), signifying the lifting of some ihram restrictions, except for marital relations.
- What if the pebble misses the pillar?
The key is for the pebble to land within the designated hole beneath the pillar. If it falls outside this area, the throw is invalid and must be repeated.
- Can large stones be used?
Not recommended. The sunnah is to use small pebbles. Large stones are prohibited as they endanger other pilgrims and constitute ghuluw (excessiveness) in religious practice.
- Is bathing required before stoning?
No specific bath is required, but pilgrims are advised to be in a state of purity (wudu) and maintain personal cleanliness.
The 2026 Hajj operations have achieved significant progress, particularly in managing pilgrim mobility during the critical phases to Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna).
Golkar Party faction leader in the Indonesian House of Representatives, Muhammad Sarmuji, stated that the 2026 Hajj management has improved. He made this remark based on direct observations.
Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah spokesperson Maria Assegaff confirmed all movement stages proceeded according to the operational plan.