Pilgrims who break the Kingdom's laws to perform Haj violate the Islamic Shariah and defy the country's ruler, said Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Abdullah Aal Al-Sheikh, Grand Mufti and Chairman of the Board of Senior Ulema. Aal Al-Sheikh was quoted as saying in Al-Watan newspaper that the country's rules and regulations are in place to make sure that pilgrims can perform the rituals decreed by Almighty Allah. He made the comments at a press conference on Tuesday. He said it was wrong for Muslims to smuggle people into Makkah to perform Haj without permits. This goes against the instructions of the ruler. Those breaking the law will be held accountable here and in the Hereafter. The Grand Mufti said that the awareness campaign launched recently by Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region, and Chairman of the Higher Haj Committee, entitled “Haj is worship and civilized behavior”, is part of the government's plan to make sure all pilgrims can perform the rituals like the Prophet (peace be upon him) did. The Grand Mufti added that Almighty Allah forbids bloodshed in the sacred land, a reference to previous negative incidents during Haj. He said some pilgrims break Allah's laws unintentionally by sleeping on pavements and littering at the holy sites. These malpractices are making it difficult for the government to provide the best possible services. It also deprives other Muslims of many privileges and services. The Grand Mufti added that the rules of Haj are to ensure the safety of pilgrims, as required by Islam. He urged preachers and guides to educate pilgrims about the government's efforts. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Sulaiman Bin Manea, a member of the Board of Senior Ulema, said Prince Khaled's campaign is very important because it enlightens pilgrims on how to perform Haj properly. Those who perform Haj without permits are sinners, he said. Their pilgrimage is correct but they are disobedient, he added. He said it should be understood that the instructions and rules are in the interests of pilgrims. Sheikh Saleh Aal Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, said the campaign is meant to inform pilgrims about the importance of sticking to the rules made by the government, and it is aimed at providing the best services to the Guests of Allah. He said his ministry has contributed to the campaign by getting its preachers to explain the importance of the rules and instructions to pilgrims.
