Mecca, Saudi Arabia – On the Day of Arafah, the skies above Mecca witnessed a rare astronomical phenomenon: the sun was almost directly overhead the Kaaba. This event, the first of its kind in approximately 33 years, was confirmed by astronomy and solar observation experts.
This phenomenon occurs when the sun is precisely at its zenith over Mecca’s latitude. As a result, shadows almost disappear around the Grand Mosque at midday, making objects appear to cast very short, direct shadows.
Astronomers believe that the coincidence of this phenomenon with the Day of Arafah gives it added significance. Astronomical precision intersects with profound religious symbolism, creating a scene that combines the order of the universe with the unique significance of time and place in Islamic rituals.
Experts explained that the sun’s alignment with the Kaaba usually occurs twice a year at different times. However, its alignment with the Day of Arafah is an exceptional event linked to long astronomical cycles. Therefore, the event is rare and occurs only once every few decades.
Specialists utilize this phenomenon to determine directions with high accuracy towards the Kaaba in various countries around the world. The moment of alignment is considered one of the most precise astronomical methods for determining the Qibla without the need for modern equipment.
