Arafat Sermon 2025: “Good and Evil Are Never Equal,” Says Imam of Grand Mosque

Makkah, Saudi Arabia :In the annual Hajj sermon delivered at Masjid al-Haram, the Imam and Khateeb, Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid, reminded millions of pilgrims gathered at Arafat of the core values of Islam, emphasizing piety, gratitude, and the distinction between good and evil.
“Good and evil can never be equal,” the Imam declared. “Repel evil with what is better.” He urged Muslims to uphold righteousness, avoid sin, and adhere to both the Qur’an and Hadith, warning that denial of one equates to the denial of the other.
Calling upon pilgrims to fear Allah, Sheikh Dr. Saleh said: “Worship Allah as if you see Him. Piety is the key to success in both this world and the Hereafter. Those who are patient and grateful will be rewarded abundantly.”
He highlighted that Iman (faith) consists of speech, action, and belief, and that sincerity is essential—“There is no place for hypocrites in the sight of Allah.”
The sermon also touched on social and moral duties: “Take care of your neighbors, follow Shariah, and keep your religion at the forefront of your life.” He reminded the faithful that “Allah has set a time for everything” and warned against corruption and arrogance.
“Fasting, especially in Ramadan, purifies the soul and helps avoid spiritual diseases that distance a person from Allah,” he said, adding, “Allah loves those who do good.”
The sermon was broadcast in 35 languages worldwide to ensure understanding among the global Muslim community.
Following the sermon, millions of pilgrims performed combined Dhuhr and Asr prayers at Arafat and will stay until sunset before moving to Muzdalifah. There, they will gather pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil and spend the night under the open sky.
On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims will perform the ritual of Rami (stoning the largest Jamarah), offer sacrifice, shave or trim their hair, and exit the state of Ihram. Over the next two days, they will complete stoning rituals at all three Jamarat, followed by Tawaf al-Ziyarah and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, concluding their Hajj with final rites.