How Many Stones Are Thrown in Hajj? Hajj Guide

 Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for every capable Muslim. One of the most symbolic rituals during Hajj is Ramy al-Jamarat—the stoning of the devil in Mina. Many young Muslims often ask: “How many stones are thrown during Hajj?” This question is important because stoning is a wajib (mandatory) part of Hajj.

In this detailed and easy-to-follow guide, we will explore how many stones are thrown, their Islamic significance, step-by-step rules, and essential tips for Hajj 2025—written in a youth-friendly tone suitable for readers as young as 15.

What is Ramy al-Jamarat?

Ramy al-Jamarat is the symbolic act of stoning the devil by throwing pebbles at three stone pillars in Mina:

• Jamarat al-Sughra (Small Pillar)
  
• Jamarat al-Wusta (Middle Pillar)
  
• Jamarat al-Aqaba (Big Pillar)
  

This ritual commemorates Prophet Ibrahim (AS) resisting Shaytan’s temptation, symbolizing our own struggle against evil and complete submission to Allah.

How Many Stones Are Thrown During Hajj?

The total number of stones depends on how many days a pilgrim stays in Mina:

• 10th Dhul-Hijjah (Yawm al-Nahr): Throw 7 stones at only the big pillar (Jamarat al-Aqaba).
  
• 11th Dhul-Hijjah: Throw 21 stones (7 at each of the three pillars).
  
• 12th Dhul-Hijjah: Throw 21 stones again (7 per pillar).
  
• 13th Dhul-Hijjah (Optional): If staying an extra day, throw another 21 stones (7 per pillar).
  

So, total stones:

• If leaving on the 12th: 49 stones (7 + 21 + 21)
  
• If staying till the 13th: 70 stones (7 + 21 + 21 + 21)
  

Note: This rule applies to Hajj Tamattu’ and Qiran. There is no stone throwing in Umrah.

Step-by-Step Rules for Stoning in Hajj

For young pilgrims, understanding and following these rules is essential:

1. Size of Stones: Small, pea-sized pebbles (around 1–1.5 cm). Avoid using large or sharp stones.
   
2. Where to Collect: Collect pebbles from Muzdalifah after spending the night there before 10th Dhul-Hijjah.
   
3. Time to Throw: Ideally after Dhuhr until sunset. Elderly and women may throw at night to avoid crowds.
   
4. How to Throw: Say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” with each throw. Ensure the pebble lands at the pillar or within the marked area.
   
5. Correct Order: Start with the small pillar, then middle, then big (except on the 10th where only the big one is targeted).
   

Spiritual Meaning of Ramy

Stoning is not a physical act of aggression. It is a symbolic rejection of Satan and a sign of obedience to Allah. It reflects the story of Ibrahim (AS) when he was tested by Allah and Shaytan tried to deter him. Stoning reminds us to resist temptation and stay firm on the path of righteousness.

Preparing for Hajj 2025: Youth Guide

1. Collect Proper Pebbles: Get 70 clean, small pebbles in a pouch from Muzdalifah.
   
2. Learn the Rules: Watch YouTube tutorials or read official Hajj guides.
   
3. Stay Safe: Mina is crowded—stay with your group and be cautious.
   
4. Pack Smart: Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, a hat, and sun protection.
   
5. Spiritual Focus: Have a pure intention (niyyah). Say Bismillah, Allahu Akbar with every throw.
   

Hajj 2025 Updates

Saudi Arabia has introduced key changes for Hajj 2025:

• Nusuk Platform: Mandatory registration for pilgrims, including scheduling for stoning times.
  
• Security Measures: Strict crowd control near Jamarat. Always follow official instructions.
  
• Transport: Book buses or taxis early for Makkah–Mina travel.
  
• Women’s Guidelines: Must be accompanied by a mahram; can perform stoning during off-peak hours.
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wrong-sized stones (too big or too tiny).
  
• Throwing at wrong times (outside prescribed hours).
  
• Throwing too forcefully (may injure others).
  
• Forgetting to say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” with each throw.
  
• Being careless in crowds—stay alert and stick with your group.
  

FAQs

Q: How many stones are thrown during Hajj?
A: Either 49 or 70, depending on your duration in Mina.

Q: When are the stones thrown?
A: From the 10th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, at set times each day.

Q: Where do I collect the stones?
A: Mainly from Muzdalifah; some may be found in Mina.

Q: Can women throw stones too?
A: Yes, with their mahram, and preferably during less crowded times.

Final Thoughts: The Spiritual Power of Stoning in Hajj

Throwing stones at the Jamarat is not about anger—it’s an act of devotion, a way to declare war on Shaytan and reaffirm loyalty to Allah. For young Muslims, this ritual serves as a powerful reminder to resist evil, fight temptation, and stay true to their faith.

Call to Action:

Got questions about stoning in Hajj? Share them in the comments below or message us. For more Hajj 2025 tips and updates, visit our blog regularly and don’t forget to share this guide with your friends!