Offer shortened prayers, Haramain Imaams ordered
Imaam at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, and Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah have been directed to shorten the length of recitation during Salah and to as well reduce the waiting time between adhan (call to prayer) and the commencement of the salah.
According to a statement by the General Presidency of the Affairs of the two Holy Mosques, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, the President of Religious Affairs of the two mosques, has directed the Imaams to ease the burden on worshippers during the Hajj season, and by shortening the length of recitation.
In issuing the directive, Sheikh Sudais asked the Imaams to be mindful of the elderly and weak who are among the multitudes of pilgrims pouring into the holy cities for Hajj.
“This measure aims to alleviate the hardship on worshippers in the two Holy Mosques, in accordance with the Sharia principles and established objectives and in compliance with the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in leading people in prayer,” Sheikh Sudais said in a statement.
Sheikh Sudais also cautioned pilgrims not to create congestion in Masjid al-Haram by sitting in pathways and corridors, and to refrain from being preoccupied with phones and photography. He urged the pilgrims to dedicate their time to worship, seeking Allah’s pleasure, forgiveness, and mercy. He also emphasized the importance of adhering to the regulations and etiquette of the two Holy Mosques, respecting the sanctity of the place and time, and showing kindness to one another, so they can perform their rituals in a safe and reverent atmosphere and return to their homes with an accepted Hajj.
