First Pilgrimage Group Departs for the Holy Land
Turkey Sends 85,000 Pilgrims to the Holy Land
Head of Religious Affairs, Prof. Dr. Ali Erbaş, inaugurated this year’s pilgrimage program with a recitation of the Holy Quran, emphasizing the essential practices for pilgrims. He reminded attendees that for affluent Muslims, undertaking the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime is obligatory, highlighting that neglecting this duty can render one’s worship in vain.
Erbaş underscored the efforts made by the Turkish Presidency of Religious Affairs and various agencies to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience. He announced that nearly 5,000 teachers and around 500 healthcare personnel, including doctors, will be on duty in Mecca to assist pilgrims.
Reflecting on Turkey’s recognition in the global pilgrimage landscape, Erbaş stated, “We were honored with the first prize for the world’s best pilgrimage organization in 2023.” He encouraged pilgrims to conduct their worship mindfully and to contribute positively to the pilgrimage environment.
Additionally, Erbaş announced the implementation of the "Zero Waste, Zero Waste" project during this year’s pilgrimage, showcasing Turkey’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
A Record Year for Pilgrimage
Remzi Bircan, the General Manager of Hajj and Umrah Services, expressed his hope for accepted worship, announcing that 85,000 pilgrims would embark on their journey from Turkey this year. The Consul General of Saudi Arabia in Istanbul, Abdulmajeed Hamad Aldosari, extended his best wishes to the pilgrims, expressing the joy of hosting them in Mecca and Medina.
Vice President of Religious Affairs, Assoc. Dr. Selim Argun, also offered wise counsel to the pilgrims before they departed.
Emotional Farewells
Following the ceremony, many pilgrims experienced poignant moments as they bid farewell to their loved ones and boarded buses to Istanbul Airport. The emotional atmosphere resonated with farewells mixed with anticipation.
One pilgrim, Nihat Meydan, who first performed the pilgrimage in 2007, expressed that he had longed for this moment. “This year has been granted, so it is the best of us,” he said, sharing his hopes for a spiritually rewarding journey.
Adem Gin, traveling with his wife, shared that after 15 years of waiting, they were finally making their pilgrimage. His wife, Hikmet Gin, expressed her inability to describe her feelings, emphasizing the joy of finally embarking on this sacred journey.
Another pilgrim, Yusuf Toprak, excitedly remarked on his ten-year wait, expressing hopes for prayers for their nation and for peace in the Muslim world.
Zekeriya Genç, preparing for his pilgrimage after 14 years, conveyed his excitement and hope for all aspiring pilgrims.
As they waved goodbye, Prof. Dr. Erbaş and other participants offered prayers for the pilgrims, sending them off on their sacred journey to the holy land.
