God,
As Muslims celebrate, keep their joy. As Egyptians observe, keep them safe.
In Egypt and around the region, security is stepped up in prevention of extremist attacks. The pilgrimage, a time of piety for many, is a time of advertising for others.
May the eid pass peacefully, God. May peace come in their supplication.
Amen.
God,
Have mercy on the more than 700 Hajj pilgrims trampled underfoot in Saudi Arabia. Have mercy on the two million still alive, witness to the disaster. May they reflect anew, and seek you with all their heart.
Eight of the dead are among the 62,000 Egyptians on the pilgrimage. For them and all nationalities beside, comfort their families and provide for their children. Many Muslims believe Mecca is the best of all places to die. Help them to balance their grief with acceptance of honor.
Help the Saudi authorities to review all procedures, God. May they do all in their power to ease and order the necessary rituals.
And apart from the Hajj, God, bless all Muslims as they celebrate their holiday. May they laugh, love, and long for you. Lighten their hearts from the troubles of the region; burden their souls to serve you and their peoples.
Have mercy, God. Forgive the dead and the living, and revive us all.
Amen.
Update: The Ministry of Endowments now lists 124 Egyptian casualties.
Jayson Casper