Thousands of Muslim pilgrims take part in the symbolic stoning of the devil ritual in Mina near Mecca, on Thursday, May 28, marking the first day of Tashriq as part of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The ritual commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s rejection of the devil, with pilgrims throwing seven pebbles at each of three stone pillars (Jamarat). The stoning, a central rite of Hajj, takes place during Eid al-Adha.

After completing the stoning at the largest pillar, known as Al-Jamrah Al-Aqaba, pilgrims traditionally cut or shave their hair in a gesture of spiritual renewal.

The Days of Tashriq are the 11th, 12th, and optionally, the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.