Update to our Archive BLOG of January 11, 2005
363 TRAMPLED IN EXIT STAMPEDE ON LAST DAY OF HAJ!
January 14, 2006
http://www.tribulationperiod.com/
According to News 24.com the latest death count, in the Haj stampede we reported earlier this week, has now reached 363, which is the highest Haj death count for the annual event since 1990, when 1,426 died In the closing ceremony that symbolizes the stoning of the devil.
Also, according to News 24.com, Interior Minister Spokesman Mansur al-Turki said, ‘In many cases the rush of the masses overtakes security forces.’
Before this he said, ‘Nearly 70% of the same three million pilgrims amassed in Mina before the stampede wanted to leave after the stoning ritual.’ And he added, ‘that almost 600,000 alone had gathered at the entrance of the bridge hours before the countdown to the stoning.’ He said, ‘The real reason for the stampede can be linked to the dynamics of the masses involved in the Haj.’ I suppose this could be understood in plain Arkansas terminology by saying they were super anxious to leave the worship service and head for home.
The stoning is conducted from the Jamarat bridge from which stones are cast at three stone pillars that represent the devil, and there has not been sufficient room at times in the past for those jamming in to get on the bridge.
Turki said the Jamarat bridge will be torn down next week to pave the way for a major renovation that will eventually create four levels by 2008.
Having almost been trampled in chaotic mad stampedes by the congregation to get out of
the Sunday morning worship service to get home to football and the pot roast, I suppose creating four levels would be equivalent to enlarging the church foyer and lobby entrance area.
I am thankful there are no stones available in our pews or parking lot!