Mina is a significant location in the context of the Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is situated approximately 5 kilometers east of the city of Makkah (Mecca) in Saudi Arabia. Mina is often referred to as a "resting place" for pilgrims during the Hajj rituals.
During Hajj, pilgrims spend time in Mina, particularly on the 8th and 9th days of Dhul-Hijjah. It is here that they perform several important rituals, including the stoning of the Jamaraat (the pillars representing the devil), which symbolizes the rejection of evil. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the significance of Mina, stating that it is a resting place for those who arrive there (
Jami` at-Tirmidhi 881).
Mina is also associated with the rite of sacrifice, as it is the location where many pilgrims perform the Qurbani (sacrifice) during the Eid al-Adha festival. The act of sacrifice at Mina is a confirmed Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh), and it is a place where numerous sacrificial animals are offered annually, symbolizing obedience to God's commands.
In addition to its religious significance, Mina is characterized by its large tents that accommodate the millions of pilgrims who gather there during Hajj, providing them with shelter and a place to rest. The area is also known for its historical and spiritual importance, as it is linked to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) in obedience to God's command.
