This year's Haj has been a “phenomenal success” because of the commitment of the government, its people and the Islamic Ummah, said Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, Imam and Khateeb of the Grand Mosque in Makkah in his Friday sermon. He said Almighty Allah has given the Kingdom and its people the honor of serving pilgrims. “The Kingdom does not expect a word of thanks from anyone because it strongly believes that Almighty Allah has given it the task of serving and providing security for pilgrims.” He said the Kingdom's leaders believe that this is one of this country's greatest responsibilities. “In the name of all the Guests of Allah, we express our heartfelt congratulations to King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince and the Islamic Ummah for the phenomenal success of this Haj. We are very grateful to Almighty Allah for these blessings and we pray to Him to guide us to the right path.” Addressing pilgrims, Al-Sudais said they should fear Allah in private and public and should be thankful to Him for the blessings of performing Haj in ease and comfort. He urged them to hold fast to the right path because the blessed Haj washes off all sins and pilgrims return to their homelands as pure as newborn babies. He added that they should not lie, backbite or sin in other ways. Al-Sudais said Haj is a source of tolerance, dialogue, solidarity, consultation and unity. Muslims can learn many lessons from the greatest religious gathering in the world, he said. In the name of the entire Islamic Ummah, he urged Muslim leaders and their people to ensure security and stability in their societies. They should choose unity and not chaos, apart from seeking the help of Almighty Allah. He said Muslims must be constantly aware of the challenges and dangers facing them and should thank Almighty Allah for His favors. In Madina, Sheikh Hussein Aal Al-Sheikh, Imam and Khateeb of the Prophet's Mosque, urged Muslims to observe Allah in public and in private. He said one of the greatest kinds of jihad is for a Muslim to rein in his base desires and obey Almighty Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him). Another great form of jihad is for a person to refrain from words and deeds that might harm a Muslim.
