Question:According to the latest decision of the Hajj authority this year, pilgrims shall not stop at Muzdalifa between the dawn and sunrise, pilgrims shall exit the premises at about 3 A.M. The questions are: a. What is the religious rationale here? b. Are pilgrims regarded as the scared ones here so that they shall be allowed to exit before dawn? Note: Emergency stop is not allowed as well.

Answer:A. In the name of Allah, it is sufficient to pass in Muzdalifa during the period between the dawn and sunrise, if the pilgrim intends that the passing is to comply with Allah's order which is a prerequisite to perform Hajj. It is sufficient to stop even for a moment at Muzdalifa. Should the pilgrim not be able to do so, the pilgrim shall be regarded as the prevented from Hajj. Therefore, one of the following two ways should be adopted here: a. If the pilgrim can go back to Mina, the pilgrim shall pass in Muzdalifa for even one step to legitimize this ritual. b. If the pilgrim cannot go back to Mina, performing Muzdalifa ritual shall be valid, and the pilgrim shall be regarded as among the sacred ones. Allah knows best.