With Iran making comments that seemingly seek to politicize this year’s Haj, Saudi Arabia is making it clear that that’s not going to happen. Arab News reports on yesterday’s Council of Ministers meeting:
‘No one will be allowed to undermine Haj security’
P.K. Abdul Ghafour | Arab NewsJEDDAH: The Council of Ministers warned Monday that Saudi Arabia will not allow anyone to undermine the security and safety of pilgrims during the upcoming Haj season beginning Nov. 25.
“The Kingdom’s policy does not allow any party to tamper with the smooth operation of Haj events and undermine the security of pilgrims,” the Cabinet said in a statement.
The Cabinet also warned against moves by certain quarters to create divisions among Muslims and called on pilgrims to keep away from all activities that could affect Haj security.
…
Asharq Alawsat reports on the reaction from the Saudi religious establishment:
Saudi Gazette runs the Saudi Press Agency report on the Council meeting:
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November:03:2009 - 12:40
translation: we, the al-saud’s control politics, you don’t.
November:04:2009 - 16:43
If I remember correctly there is genuine historic precedent for needing to emphasize security and religion over politics.
November:05:2009 - 05:53
Hi John,
This is my first time commenting here and although I would usually bob my head in agreement to everything, I am sorry to finally have found something to feel strongly against.
I disagree with Me’s translation.
I think what the articles tried to emphasize is that “The hajj business is incredibly thick with politics that we have to produce articles reminding everyone to stay out of the business. Even as Hajjis.”
Thank you, John, for humoring my vent.
November:05:2009 - 07:17
Thanks for raising the point, and welcome! I hope you continue to comment.
I’m not sure if you’re right, though… Many Saudis, particularly Meccawis, depend on the Haj to earn their annual incomes. Too, it’s been a long tradition for hajjis to bring materials like jewelry and carpets to Haj in order to pay for their pilgrimages.
Now of course Haj is not about doing personal business, but many use it as an opportunity for business. Wasn’t that how the Quraishi became so wealthy to begin with?
November:05:2009 - 20:04
John,
Your definition complements mine. Hajj, as a business is as exclusive to certain Meccawis, called mutawwif (modern day Quraishis), who are in mafioso-like in sharing fighting over who gets to do what every year.
It may not only be about doing business for everyone, but for those who are there for the business, a pie as big and ancient as Hajj is bound to be infested with a lot of rats, John.
Just me pennies.
November:05:2009 - 22:07
I think that everywhere in the world, there are people more than happy to separate fools from their money. The only excuse they need is that somebody has money and doesn’t know the territory.