Haj Date Change Leads to Confusion.
     
        
      JEDDAH, 17 January 2005 - The change in the date of the Standing on Mount Arafat, the climax of the Haj, has created confusion among airlines as well as local Haj agents. 

      Both have consequently had to amend their travel and service plans. The day has been moved from Jan. 20 as originally planned and will now take place on Jan. 19. 

      As soon as the announcement of the change was made, people rushed to alter their travel plans, fearing any delay would make them miss the Haj.

      Haj service companies including airlines and domestic agents were forced to cancel some of their reservations after finding themselves unable to ensure that their customers would arrive in Makkah on time. 

      The changing of the date has also affected the delivery of food and other supplies, forcing some companies to amend their schedules in order to ensure that supplies reach the holy sites as required.

      On Friday, the Supreme Judicial Council announced that Jan. 19 (Wednesday) would be Arafat Waqfa Day, and Jan. 20 (Thursday) would be the first day of Eid Al-Adha. This is a day earlier than was previously announced.

      Local Haj agents responsible for escorting pilgrims for Haj said the change had resulted in some difficulties since all the Haj agents depend upon the official Umm Al-Qura calendar which does not necessarily coincide with the beginning and end of the lunar months determined by sighting of the new moon.

      "Many local Haj agents have had to reschedule reservations with other Haj service companies for transporting and accommodating pilgrims. Others who earlier made contingency plans did not feel the pressure," said one local agent in Jeddah. 

      King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah handles about 60 percent of Haj traffic and the huge Haj Terminal is busy round the clock throughout arrival and departure days. Large numbers of foreign pilgrims arrive by ship while others come by land from neighboring countries. 

      Some domestic pilgrims from within the Kingdom had their reservations canceled since they could not travel to Jeddah in time for Haj. They were originally scheduled to arrive in Jeddah on Dul Hijjah 6 and 7 (Jan. 16 and 17) in order to be able to proceed to Makkah and arrive in Mina on Dul Hijjah 8. This was all based on the earlier date that fixed the Standing on Arafat on Jan. 20. 

      Saudi Arabian Airlines said immediately after the new announcement by the Supreme Judiciary Council that it had prepared contingency plans and rescheduled flights to ensure its pilgrims arrived on time.

      All airlines were forced to move reservations forward to meet their obligations to their passengers. Some local Haj agents in cities other than Jeddah said the pilgrims who fail to arrive at their offices on Monday, Dul Hijjah 7 for the journey to Makkah, may not be eligible for refunds unless they have a valid and convincing reason for the delay.



            Piety, Prayers as Haj Dawns.
           
              
            MAKKAH, 17 January 2005 - With Hajis continuing to stream in from all corners of the globe, as many as three million pilgrims could be performing this year's Haj which climaxes on Wednesday with the Standing on Mount Arafat, Haj Minister Iyad Madani said.

            Madani told reporters here on Saturday night that 1.6 million pilgrims were expected from abroad this year, in addition to half a million from within Saudi Arabia. But hundreds of thousands more could arrive from the region around Makkah at Mount Arafat on Wednesday. "There could be up to three million people on that day," he said.

            With just 24 hours to go before the pilgrims start the trek to the tent city of Mina, one could barely miss the string of jumbo jets landing at King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah. They fly so low that Jeddawis can read the names of the airlines and see the colorful logos on their tails.

            For expats living and working in and around Jeddah, the insignias of their national airlines on the jumbo jets overhead are a special sight. And the pilgrims are pleased to find compatriots among the many expatriate workers who try to make the visitors' stay as enjoyable as possible. The planes bring a colorful array of pilgrims to the massive arrival tent at the Haj Terminal. The pilgrims arriving at the terminal are transported directly to Makkah, bypassing Jeddah.

            The pilgrims are making the most of their stay in the holy cities. They often become emotional, frequently bursting into tears. "All our lives we have been turning in the direction of the Holy Kaaba" - a stone cubic building that was originally built by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ismail - "and now we are praying right in front of it," said 59-year-old Zafarullah Farid, barely controlling his tears. "These are tears of joy."

            Farid, an employee of Radio Pakistan in Karachi, is one of 150,000 Pakistanis who are performing Haj this year. "It has always been a dream to come here and renew my faith," he said.

            "We have read so much about Makkah and Madinah and heard so many things from those who have visited the holy cities and have seen so many pictures of the two holy mosques. Nothing really prepares you for the experience when you first cast a glance at the Holy Kaaba; you are transported into a different world - a world where wordly worries take a backseat," said Syed Mahmoud Hashmi from India.

            Both Farid's and Hashmi's wives are accompanying their husbands on the pilgrimage. "We are overwhelmed by the air of spirituality that surrounds this place. Our feelings cannot be described in words. It is heavenly. There are so many people here. We are told there are more than two million pilgrims here in Makkah but what is amazing is that each one is busy reflecting on his/her own life... On his/her own past... And seeking God's mercy and forgiveness," they said.

            The great number of pilgrims from Pakistan and India is something that is immediately apparent. "There was a time in the 1970s and 1980s when only a handful of people came to Saudi Arabia for Haj," said Andaleeb Hussain, an Urdu journalist from New Delhi. "The growing number indicates the social and economic progress of South Asian Muslims. They are, by the grace of God, in a better financial position than they once were. Also, there is a greater awareness of religion. Earlier Haj was undertaken only by those who were in the twilight of their lives. Now we see a lot of young people performing Haj," he pointed out.

            This is the second Haj for both Andaleeb and his mother. The first time they were here, things were totally different. "Makkah has grown enormously. There are a lot of facilities available now. In 1995, there were no trees. Now we see a lot of green in and around Makkah," they said.

            Most of the pilgrims busied themselves soon after arrival in exploring Makkah and its Islamic history. "I just visited the cave where Prophet Muhammad received his first Qur'anic verse," said Muhammad Mustafa from Alexandria. "This place is steeped in history... Every stone has its own story, its own relevance." His close friend, Dr. Tarek Jamal, who works in a clinic near the Grand Mosque, is playing host to him. "It is a great honor to serve the pilgrims, and if they happen to come from the region for which I have a special affinity, then the pleasure is only enhanced," said Dr. Tarek, who is actually from Cairo but is married to a woman from Alexandria.

            Dr. Tarek is not alone. There are literally hundreds of expatriate workers from Arab, African and South Asian countries working in Makkah and Jeddah and their great pleasure is to help pilgrims in any way they can. They roll out the welcome mat for pilgrims who have their own set of priorities. "They are spiritually charged but physically exhausted," said Dr. Abdul Hai Gojwari from Srinagar. He works at one of the hospitals run by the Ministry of Health in Makkah. "One look at their relatives, and they get a new bout of energy," he said.

            Dr. Hai knows this from firsthand experience. "I just called on my sister's in-laws from India, and they felt so happy," Dr. Hai said. "They hugged me and began to cry." Waheed Qureshi, his relative from India, nodded in affirmation.

            Many pilgrims are pleasantly surprised by the weather.

            "We've always been told that Saudi Arabia is a desert and the climate is constantly hot, hotter or hottest, but what we've been experiencing now is something we cannot believe. Can you imagine a desert as a place where days are pleasant and nights are cold?" asked Asif Nayeem from Gujranwala, Pakistan.

            Other myths about Saudi Arabia are also dispelled as visitors find a nation of people proud to share a rich heritage with their visiting Muslim brethren. "There is much to see here, and we're all delighted," said Inayatullah, a beaming pilgrim from Galle, Sri Lanka. "My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost everything in the tsunami disaster. My village has been completely destroyed," he said, controlling his tears. "On the Day of Arafat on Wednesday, I will beseech God to shower his mercy on those who were left high and dry after this terrible tragedy."

            The Standing at Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) gave his last sermon, falls on the 9th day of Dul Hijjah. Accordingly, Eid Al-Adha which follows Haj, will be celebrated on Thursday, Jan. 20.

                  Islam Demands Purity of Soul, Body, Mind & Dress.
                 
                    
                  JEDDAH, 17 January 2005 - For Muslims, the Haj is the most eventful and memorable sacred journey. It includes hardships as well as rewards. Today's focus is on the physical and mental aspect of health during Haj.

                  I want to emphasize that no matter how sincere the intentions of the pilgrims are, health care does not conflict with Islam. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, reminds us, "And your body is entitled to care."

                  Haj, the fifth pillar of Islam, becomes mandatory only if the Muslim has both the physical and mental health, as well as the financial capability to perform its demanding rituals. As God says in the Holy Qur'an, "...Hence, pilgrimage unto the Temple is a duty owed to God by all people who are able to undertake it (Chapter 3: Verse: 97). Islam thus emphasizes ability as a condition for performing Haj.

                  When pilgrims from around the world come to Makkah, what they find is usually beyond their anticipation or imagination. One of the unexpected occurrences is the huge assembly of pilgrims, all gathered in one area, performing the same rituals, facing the same direction, and dressed in simple white clothing. The white outfit signifies spiritual purity and bodily cleanliness. With such a large population in such a confined space under less than perfect conditions, it is impossible to avoid either the fact or the possibility of communicable diseases and illnesses.

                  To avoid disease, there are measures that should be taken. For the protection of foreign pilgrims as well as local ones, the government mandates vaccines against certain highly contagious and dangerous diseases such as meningitis and cholera. Unfortunately, it is impossible to prevent some sicknesses because of the sheer number of people which produces conditions that lead to the breakdown of the body's immune system.

                  It is a given that during Haj people cannot avoid congested areas. Large crowds are everywhere - in the Holy Mosque in Makkah or at Arafat, Mina, Muzdalifa, or just in the streets. As much as possible, one should stay away from overcrowded streets or at least choose a time of the day when they are less crowded. If this is not possible, buy face masks which are available in all pharmacies; to a certain extent, they will minimize contamination from substances in the air.

                  As for personal hygiene, we should bathe daily at least once in order to remove dust, dirt, germs and contaminants. Washing the hands, face and feet frequently helps keep infections at bay; here are the obvious benefits of ablution five times per day. It is important to cut the nails before making the Haj as dirt and germs easily accumulate under them. Clothes should be practical and easily washable so that they can be laundered daily. If we follow these simple procedures, we will gain the appearance of devout Muslims while avoiding contamination. Islam demands purity of soul, body, mind and dress.

                  Particular attention should be given to food, not only from the aspect of hygiene but also from that of nutrition. To remove parasites and undesirable microorganisms, raw fruits and vegetables should be treated in a special way. All greens, root vegetables and fruits, as well as all other edible raw plants should be soaked for 15 minutes in water with apple cider vinegar added to it - one tablespoon of vinegar per gallon of water. Vinegar is a good disinfectant, readily available and easily affordable.

                  Because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, vegetables and fruits are important for boosting immunity and resisting disease. They increase digestive secretions and help helpful bacteria in the digestive tract destroy yeasts, harmful bacteria and parasites.

                  With an efficient defense mechanism, our body is capable of warding off infections and contagious diseases. Onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, lime and lemon have effective antiviral and antibacterial components that protect against infections and viruses. For loose stool or diarrhea, the undiluted juice of two limes kills bacteria and stops diarrhea. Ginger and lime are good for nausea. Boiled slices of lemon, ginger, cinnamon and honey make a potent remedy for colds and flu. Clear chicken stock made with four whole onions, a head of garlic and ginger is also effective against colds and flu as well as nutritious. Lemon juice reduces fever, too.

                  Water is essential during Haj. It is important to remember to drink as much as possible for several reasons. Exposure to the sun can be dehydrating even if one does not feel thirsty. Our body systems need six to eight glasses of water every day. The blood and the kidneys depend on it for detoxification. The respiratory system requires water for mucus secretions to stop microbes from harming the body. The digestive tract needs it for lubrication. The eyes, skin and other organs need water for proper functioning. In order to have the benefit of water, it should be clean, pure and free of contaminants. Bottled water is good; the bottles come in different sizes which are easy to carry. During Haj, water is usually distributed to all pilgrims free of charge. Free Zam Zam water is also available in the Holy Mosque. Tap water is usually safe but if you are in doubt, make sure you boil it and, if possible, filter it as well.

                  Rest and sleep are also necessary for health; sleep is also essential for the maintenance of immunity. It gives the body time to recover from daily physical and mental stress caused by performing the rituals of Haj. Remember that Haj is demanding and is expected of the fit and physically able; enough sleep gives pilgrims the energy required to complete the rituals.

                  By following this advice during Haj - and all the time - we will foster a good defense mechanism which influences physical and mental health, increases spirituality and make the Haj meaningful, pleasurable and rewarding.


                  * * *

                  (Mariam Alireza is a holistic science specialist. Send comments to [log in to unmask])

                        Major Research Project Launched on Zam Zam.
                       
                          
                        RIYADH, 17 January 2005 - Saudi Arabia has launched a major research project to monitor demand of Zam Zam water. The study aims to optimize supply and distribution of Zam Zam, while making sure that sustainable supply limits are not exceeded in order to prevent wastage or possible depletion of the water well.

                        With the dramatic rise in the number of pilgrims from only a few thousands per year reported during 1960s to millions arriving every year during this decade including more than two million reported to perform Haj this year alone, supplies could be under threat.

                        "The Kingdom, which has set up the Zam Zam Studies and Research Center (ZSRC) under the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS), is working to determine scientific solutions for effective monitoring and management of the acquifer feeding the Zam Zam well and to ensure the purity and security of supply," according to an abstract of the research project obtained by Arab News.

                        New methods of supply and distribution of Zam Zam, which has been used by the pilgrims for the last 4,000 years, are desperately needed.

                        The Zam Zam well is hand-excavated and is 30.5-meter deep, with an internal diameter ranging from 1.08 to 2.66 meters. The well is now housed in a basement room of the Holy Haram in Makkah and it is protected by glass panels that allow a clear view of it. The upper 13.5-meter of the well is excavated in the sandy alluvium of the Wadi Ibrahim, and the lower 17.0-meter in the underlying diorite bedrock. In between lies a 0.5-meter thick highly permeable weathered rock. Most of the alluvial section of the well is lined with stone masonry except for the top 1 meter, which has a reinforced concrete collar.

                        Referring to the research project, the abstract said that the ZSRC is also focusing on storage and distribution system currently in use. With the increasing number of pilgrims and visitors, demand for Zam Zam water has been continuously increasing.

                        ZSRC also seeks to estimate sustainable well yield and recommend measures to ensure that sustainable supply limits are not exceeded. The research aims to present solutions to these complex problems through an integrated approach to water catchment management and conservation.

                        "Through these actions, the quality and quantity of supply from the Zam Zam well can be sustained to meet the spiritual needs of the world's one billion Muslims," said the abstract. In order to manage demand, water from Zam Zam well is pumped, treated and stored in underground storage tanks on a continuous basis at the moment. Before distribution among consumers and transportation to Madinah, Zam Zam water is also treated by a series of sand filters, micro filters and ultraviolet disinfection.

                        The SGS's research center is also engaged in designing and upgrading the treatment system. Already, two phases of upgrading have been completed and the third phase is in active consideration. Moreover, the research center follows these activities and ensures strict quality assurance measures.

                        Pilgrims habitually carry Zam Zam water back to their homes in plastic containers of 10 or 20 liters which they fill themselves from access points, situated around the Holy Mosque or at a central filling station.

                        More commonly they buy the filled containers from roadside venders on the outskirts of Makkah. This distribution system is wanting in hygiene and offsets the efforts of treatment. Therefore, the research center is in the process of evaluation of the present filling system and design of upgrading that will minimize direct human involvement and discourage peddling by vendors.



                              Adequate Facilities Made Available to Indian Pilgrims.
                             
                                
                              JEDDAH, 17 January 2005 - Adequate arrangements have been made to provide best available facilities to Indian pilgrims during this year's Haj, said India's Parliamentary Affairs and Urban Development Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad.

                              Azad, who is leading a 36-member Haj goodwill delegation from India, arrived here yesterday. Speaking about India's Haj arrangement this year, Azad lauded the efforts of Indian officials.

                              "The welfare and well-being of Haj pilgrims have always been a matter of concern to the government," he said.

                              The government wants maximum number of people to take this journey at least once in a lifetime and to facilitate their pilgrimage, the present government has removed some restrictions imposed on availing Haj subsidies by the previous government, he said. "The subsidy on air ticket is being given again to pilgrims and everybody can avail this benefit," Azad said.

                              The previous government had put conditions for availing Haj subsidy. Income tax payers and others who had already performed Haj once, were not entitled to subsidy. However, the Congress government has removed all such conditions.

                              Indians arriving for Haj through the country's Haj Committee enjoy subsidized air tickets, accommodation and medical care.

                              More than 129,000 Indian pilgrims are expected to perform Haj this year. Out of them 82,000 pilgrims will benefit from the arrangements made by the government and Haj Committee. In addition, 47,000 other pilgrims will undertake Haj through private tour operators, Azad said.

                              Some 20,957 pilgrims landed directly at Madinah this year instead of Jeddah, the minister said. This was an "important milestone in Haj logistics" that will lower expenditure and make the pilgrimage more convenient. The number of embarkation points for the pilgrims in India had also been increased to 15 from 12, he said.



                                Haj Watch: Prince Naif Hosts Martyrs' Families.
                                 
                                  
                                MAKKAH, 17 January 2005 - Interior Minister Prince Naif is hosting the families of soldiers who died fighting terrorism to perform Haj. This is in gratitude to the families of the soldiers who died during the past year serving and protecting the country from terrorist groups.

                                Accident Victims Taken to Makkah

                                MADINAH, 17 January 2005 - The final transfer of pilgrims who were involved in the accident last week as they went from Makkah to Madinah will take place today. The accident victims will be moved from King Fahd Hospital in Madinah to Makkah. The accident resulted in the death of one Dutch woman and injured many others, most of whom were Dutch citizens of Moroccan origin. In coordination with the authorities, Dr. Osama Al-Amoudi, the director of health affairs in Madinah, will supervise the departure of the injured pilgrims in Saudi Red Crescent ambulances. A nurse will accompany each pilgrim in the ambulance.(Yousuf Muhammad)

                                Over 9,000 Security Cameras in Makkah

                                MAKKAH, 17 January 2005 - More than 9,000 security cameras will supervise the safety of pilgrims in the holy sites in Makkah, Okaz reported. Gen. Ateeq Al-Harbi, director of the police in Makkah, said there would be 1,155 speakers all over Makkah and the holy sites to serve pilgrims. More than 400 soldiers and 181 officers from the King Fahd Security College will participate in Haj work.

                                112 Pilgrim Deaths Reported

                                MADINAH, 17 January 2005 - This year 112 pilgrims have died before performing Haj, Okaz reported. Most of the pilgrims died of natural causes with five pilgrims dying as a result of accidents. A Dutch woman and a Thai man died as a result of traffic accidents; an Afghani and a Turk died when they fell from tall buildings and an Indian pilgrim died of a fall in Makkah. All but one of the pilgrims were buried in Madinah; the exception was a Pakistani whose body was returned to Pakistan in accordance with his family's wishes.

                                 
                                  

                             



                       




                 
                    

           

     
 

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