Stampede During Hajj Ritual Kills 345

Thousands of Muslim pilgrims rushing to complete a symbolic stoning ritual during the hajj tripped over luggage Thursday, causing a crush in which at least 345 people were killed despite Saudi attempts to prevent stampedes that have plagued the annual event.

The stampede occurred as tens of thousands of pilgrims headed toward al-Jamarat, a series of three pillars representing the devil that the faithful pelt with stones to purge themselves of sin. Full story.

Yes, it’s true. These things also happen at soccer matches, and for other secular reasons on occasion. But the simple fact is: if these pilgrims were not believers, they would be alive now.