It seems that year after year the debate about the growing selfie and photo-taking rate during Hajj has been stirring divided opinions.

Reports show that the whole #HajjSelfie hashtag trending that took place in 2014 received significant backlash from religious clerics in the Kingdom, with some stating that the act was boastful and goes against the whole point of a pilgrimage.

But if you think about it, it’s not all that bad.

The criticism and debate has resurfaced again this year as the above image was shared online.

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(Image Credit: Twitter)

The digital age is being met with a whole lot of cynicism

And perhaps even the battle of the digital versus real-life versions of us can be argued, but overall, the Internet doesn’t seem to get the credit it deserves. Sure, many trends (sometimes ridiculous), viral videos, memes and a variety of whatnots don’t do the digital age due diligence.

However, taking photos at such a holy place such as the Grand Mosque in Makkah or by the Kaaba isn’t done to offend or show-off. Granted, the word ‘selfie’ comes with a set of negative connotations due to the outburst (of said peculiar content) the Internet deals with on a daily basis.

But, this does not mean that everyone’s intent (when taking photographs during Hajj) is merely malicious or condescending.

In the true spirit of the holy season, people help each other or serve the pilgrims in every way possible. #Hajj2018 pic.twitter.com/ztClwNkZo6

— CIC Saudi Arabia (@CICSaudi) August 23, 2018

There’s nothing wrong with capturing a moment

The religion itself understands that what matters most is an individuals’ true intent, what comes from the heart.

People who capture photos at the Hajj are usually first-timers, or people who have other family members who might not exactly be able to attend Hajj with them (due to financial or other reasons).

Capturing this moment allows other people to experience the real beauty of the Hajj experience; that might even inspire others to understand a little bit more about the process and the TRUTH about the peace that Islam is.

No Comments! #HajjSelfie pic.twitter.com/irGm15CBJA

— Dr Shahid Masood (@Shahidmasooddr) October 6, 2014

Not everyone has the opportunity to perform Hajj

Although, this doesn’t mean that foolish and reckless behaviour should be condoned in any holy site around the world. For example, these set of photos (above) show a young man sticking his tongue out in a selfie.

There’s a clear distinction between good-hearted versus tactless intent. Still, completely diminishing photographs or ‘selfies’ during Hajj doesn’t seem to be a fair choice for everybody.

Sometimes these are the rare, once-in-a-lifetime trips that someone has saved their entire lives for and only want to share the experience back home. Or to always remember the joy and serenity they felt during their first, second or multiple Hajj experiences.

As long as you’re focused on your pilgrimage, not bothering other pilgrims and their experience with Allah and are doing it for the sole purpose of remembrance and inner joy- it’s all about the common ground of respect.

Pilgrims giving prayers. #OnePeople #Hajj2018 pic.twitter.com/JvFvPXZuUR

— CIC Saudi Arabia (@CICSaudi) August 23, 2018

Hajj is definitely moving with the times

Just like the rest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its ever-transcending progression to Vision 2030, Hajj has made its way to move with the times. Apart from the media, and recent announcements of Hajj stories reaching 32 million views worldwide; many other reports prove just how much and how fast the ways of Hajj are modernising.

Retaining the respect and traditions that come with Islam and the holy cities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia was incredibly hands-on with ensuring pilgrims got to perform in the safest and most efficient ways possible.

From double-decker and multi-lingual tour buses, a variety of volunteers who helped pilgrims stay hydrated and safe, the kindness of security guards and even ideas for nap-pods (napping stations for pilgrims).

It’s clear that the nation is doing more and more to keep up with this generation and as part of this generation, we should also do our part by genuinely being devoted to our pilgrimage.