More than six weeks after Saudi Arabia reported its first case, the coronavirus is striking at the heart of the kingdom’s sprawling royal family.
Tag: Pilgrimages
For Shut-In Pilgrims, the World’s Holiest Sites Are a Click Away
The pandemic has closed holy sites across the globe, but virtual reality is providing worshipers a digital window into ceremonies during touchstone holidays.
In a Pandemic, Religion Can Be a Balm and a Risk
As scientists and politicians struggle for a response to the coronavirus, many people are turning to faith. But some practices raise public health concerns.
Worried About Coronavirus, India Tries to Head Off a Mass Hindu Pilgrimage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges Indians to stay home at a time when hundreds of thousands of Hindus usually try to gather at Ayodhya.
‘Recipe for a Massive Viral Outbreak’: Iran Emerges as a Worldwide Threat
Long a regional crossroads, Iran is spreading the new coronavirus to a host of neighboring countries. Many are ill equipped to cope.
A Shiite Holiday Turns Into a Test of Iranian Power in Iraq
Iran wanted to help Iraq organize a major religious pilgrimage, but when it offered to send tens of thousands of police officers, Iraq said no thanks.
Hajj Begins as Muslims Flock to Mecca
Among the faithful making the annual pilgrimage are survivors and relatives of victims of the New Zealand mosque attacks.
Restoration of Holy Stairs Lets Visitors to Rome Follow in Pilgrims’ Knees
Jesus was said to have climbed the steps to meet with Pontius Pilate. A wood casing has been temporarily removed, revealing centuries-old grooves worn by the faithful.
Times Insider: How Our Former Beijing Bureau Chief Found Himself on a Bullet Train in Saudi Arabia
There was a certain dissonance in the fact that the ruling Communist Party of China, officially atheist and repressive toward the country’s Muslims, had helped build a railway connecting the holiest sites in Islam.
Let Women Enter Hindu Temple, Indian Religious Board Says, in Reversal
Sabarimala Temple has been the site of violent protests and riots by men over whether women of childbearing age could set foot inside.