Muslim hajj pilgrims ascend Mount Arafat for day of worship

More than 2 million Muslims are gathered at the sacred hill of Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for an intense day of worship and reflection on what's considered the climax of the Islamic hajj pilgrimage. Some had tears streaming down their faces as the men, wearing simple white garments, and women raised their hands in worship on the slopes of the rocky hill.

Many walked through the pre-dawn darkness early Saturday to the hill where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon some 1,400 years ago, calling for equality and unity among Muslims. One of the largest religious gatherings on earth, the second day of the hajj is often the most memorable for pilgrims.

They stand shoulder to shoulder with Muslims from around the world seeking God's mercy and blessings.