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Prodigy, 21, about to become doctor
MECCA, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Authorities in Saudi Arabia estimate more than 1.6 million people streamed to the region surrounding Mecca on their annual hajj pilgrimage without incident.
Muslim pilgrims moved to Muzdalifa following an evening on the plain of Arafat east of Mecca under floodlights guiding the way to the next stage of the hajj, Alalam satellite TV reported Wednesday.
Pilgrims collect small stones to throw against a set of walls over the next several days to symbolize their defiance of the devil.
Saudi officials report a relatively calm hajj season, Alalam said. Fires, stampedes, police clashes and the collapse of a building have marred past pilgrimages.
Saudi Arabia's state-appointed cleric, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdel-Aziz al-Sheikh, addressed the faithful, praying for prosperity and peace.
"O Muslims, reject this terrorism, and young people should be careful not to become a means for ruining your countries and your people," he said.
Saudi Arabia welcomed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at the hajj pilgrimage this year under a formal state invitation.
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