His Majesty King Saud’s Royal Counsel to the Pilgrims of the Sacred House — 1951
In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
“We extend our praise to God — there is no deity but He — and we send prayers and peace upon Muhammad, his family, his companions, and all who follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment.”
His Majesty continued:
“As Muslims arrive this year at the Sacred Land to perform this great pillar of Islam, we greet each one of them with the greeting of Islam and congratulate them from the depths of our hearts for the blessing God has granted them — answering the call of God’s Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, when God commanded him to proclaim the pilgrimage to all people. Millions of believers have responded to that call from his time until the Day of Judgment, God willing.”
“The divine message and Islamic law affirmed this command, as God says: ‘Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to God by all people who are able to undertake it; and whoever disbelieves, God is independent of all creation.’ And He says: ‘Complete the pilgrimage and the lesser pilgrimage for God.’”
“God has blessed us, the Muslim community, with this noble faith and with pure monotheism, as He says: ‘So avoid the filth of idols.’ To Him belong all praise and gratitude, and we ask Him for more of His grace, guidance, and mercy.”
A Welcome to the Pilgrims
“After reflecting on the blessings God has granted us on this noble occasion, we renew our welcome to you — in your land, at your qiblah, and in the Sacred Sanctuary of God. We pray for your acceptance, safety, and well‑being.”
“We ask that we all cooperate in performing this pillar of Islam by following the regulations established by the Saudi government for your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. These guidelines have been translated into the major languages spoken by the pilgrims to help you during the days of Hajj.”
“This season falls during one of the hottest times of the year, and we hope you will avoid exposure to the sun, remain in shaded areas, and avoid overcrowding.”
Services Provided to the Pilgrims
“The government has set up shaded areas throughout the holy sites, opened health centers and hospitals where cold water, ice, and medical treatment are provided free of charge, and established emergency stations equipped with vehicles ready to respond at any hour of day or night.”
“All of this is our duty toward you — an expression of gratitude to God for granting us the honor of serving you, caring for you, and ensuring your well‑being.”
“We hope you will assist the authorities in this effort. Anyone facing a problem anywhere in the country should immediately contact the nearest police station, ambulance center, health office, the Hajj administration, or his assigned guide. All are at your service.”
“Our doors are open to you. You may reach us through visits, letters, or telegrams. Locked boxes have been placed in major streets for complaints or grievances; we personally review them and take the necessary action in accordance with justice and truth.”
A Prayer for Acceptance and Safety
“We ask God alone to accept our pilgrimage and yours, to grant us all health, safety, and well‑being, and to protect you until you return to your homelands joyful and reassured.”
Saud
Dhu al‑Hijjah 1371 AH