I can't help but wonder if even a single Muslim will question how their god could let this happen. I mean, their religion literally mandates that they make a pilgrimage there, and then a bunch of them die completing that mandate. Wild.

My heart sincerely goes out to the families, this is tragic.

[–] PanArab@lemmy.ml 8 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (5 children)

their religion literally mandates that they make a pilgrimage there

No it doesn't. Pilgrimage is one of those obligations that most people are exempt from unless they can. Perhaps they thought they were more physically fit than they really are. Someone who is sick, poor, or unable for whatever reason, is exempt.

My heart sincerely goes out to the families, this is tragic.

People who die during pilgrimage are considered martyrs, so it is not the worst outcome. There has always been a risk associated with pilgrimage. Right now it is as easy and comfortable as it ever been.

I wish people commenting here knew a bit about Islam before doing so.

[–] iAmTheTot@sh.itjust.works -4 points 1 year ago (4 children)

I would argue that Muslims are, by default, required by their religion to make the hajj. You make it sound as if it's opt in, but their religion mandates it with some exceptions.

Not the worst outcome for whom? People are dead. I'll bet there's at least one child, sibling, or parent who isn't terribly comforted by the idea that their loved one is a martyr.

While I wouldn't call myself an Islamic scholar, I would say I do know a bit about it.

[–] TranscendentalEmpire@lemm.ee 5 points 1 year ago

would argue that Muslims are, by default, required by their religion to make the hajj. You make it sound as if it's opt in, but their religion mandates it with some exceptions.

Nah dude, the vast majority of Muslims never go to mecca. It's not a mandate anyone enforces but yourself. I think only like 9% of Muslims ever actually get to make the trip.

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