Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

More than 2 million Muslim pilgrims have gathered in the valley of Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for a day of prayer that marks the pinnacle of the hajj pilgrimage.

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Wednesday is an emotional day for the pilgrims from around the world, with many weeping as they stretch their hands out toward the sky to ask for forgiveness and pray for loved ones.

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

It is on this day some 1,400 years ago that Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon from Mount Arafat during the hajj, calling for equality and for Muslims to unite.

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

To shed symbols of materialism, male pilgrims wear white garments meant to symbolize humility and equality, while women forgo makeup and perfume and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

The five-day hajj pilgrimage began Tuesday.

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia

Millions of Muslim pilgrims gather for pinnacle of hajj in Saudi Arabia