Challenges unlikely in current Hajj once security measures are observed: Center for Protection of Freedom of Conscience and Religion

Day.Az: Part of Azerbaijani pilgrims have already left for the holy lands of Islam to perform Hajj, an annual religious ceremony. Do you think "swine flu" virus which has swept the world will impact total number of Muslims willing to make Hajj from all over the world?

Ilgar Ibrahimoglu: This is indeed a very serious problem as two important issues compulsory for every Muslim – the Hajj and the question of human life – cross in this respect. As far as I know, only one country decided to cancel the Hajj while other countries have decided not to ban their citizens to perform the pilgrimage.  

Undoubtedly, it is vital to comply with all security measures amid the rampant "swine flu" virus including vaccination against the virus during preparations for the Hajj, during the pilgrimage and after it. I think challenges are less likely to happen once security measures are observed.

Q: What does the Holy Quran say about it? Is it necessary for Muslims to perform the pilgrimage if there is danger for their health?

A: If a Muslim sees a serious danger to his/her own health, religion takes away any obligation to implement the rite. So, now every Muslim must decide himself/herself whether there is a serious danger to his/her health or not.

Q: Do you think the Saudi Arabian authorities are able to undertake necessary measures to check  all pilgrims traveling to the country to avoid the spread of the swine flu?

A: I believe the Saudi authorities are aware of the degree of importance and the possible danger at the moment and they will take all necessary measures to prevent swine flu virus spreading among pilgrims. Moreover, I believe the Saudi authorities and international medical organizations will combine efforts eliminate the likelihood of its spread among the pilgrims. I think each group of pilgrims that head to Saudi Arabia should comply with precaution measures and techniques to combat the virus.

Q: Do you mean in order to minimize swine flu threat, the pilgrims need to wear gauze bandages while performing all the rituals?

A: Each of the pilgrims individually performs all the rituals during the Hajj. Even in the course of walking around the sacred Kaaba, pilgrims do not come into contact with each other. So, pilgrims can protect themselves from contracting the virus once they observe all necessary prevention measures against swine flu while in Saudi Arabia.

It is also important to note that there are some very important recommendations for those returning from the Hajj. The pilgrims are met in a very festive manner after they return home. But now, those who return from Hall are recommended to refrain from festivities on this occasion and to avoid presence in crowded places within 10 days.

Day.Az