Eid Al-Adha, also known as Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated when Muslims reach the Grand mosque, Kaaba, for the Hajj pilgrimage in the last month of the Islamic year or Zul Hijjah. This festival, annually held on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic lunar calending year, was observed to remember the Prophet Ibrahim and his stedfastness in Islam. Nevertheless, it is an extremely significant time for Muslim people all around the world when people are united into one whole. It is not compulsory for everyone to go for hajj. Therefore, many people also celebrates eid Al Adha in their homes.
This year in 2024, Eid Al-Adha will be celebrated from the 16th till 18th of June depending upon the sightings.
Historical Significance
As for the explanation of Eid Al-Adha that has roots in Qur’anic-figurative narrative, the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail. In several narratives, it is mentioned that God(ALLAH) tested his prophet Ibrahim and ordered him to sacrifice his son. It was just a test as at the very last moment, when Ibrahim took his son to mount Arafat and was trying to slaughter his son, a ram appeared and got slaughtered instead. That’s how muslims around the world remember this event and celebrate Eid Al Adha.
Rituals and Practices
- The Sacrifice (Qurbani):
The main practice of Eid Al-Adha is the Qurbani or the slaughtering of livestock that includes Sheep, Goats, Cows or camels. This act shows that muslims still remember that hardship and test given by God. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts: It is stated that the ratio of the distribution of meat should be split into three parts where the first part should go to the family of the host, another part to friends and relatives and the last part to the poor and the needy. This practice reveals the fact that indeed in Muslim community charitable and sharing is very much valued.
- Prayer and Reflection:
The celebration acts of the occasion that is Eid Al-Adha begins with a prayer known as the Salat al-Eid and this is done by a large congregation of people at the mosque or an open ground. Traditionally the strenuous prayer is followed by a sermon since it involves a worship ritual which includes presentation of offers that depict sacrifice, generosity and devotion. Muslims also free themselves for the contemplation and seek for a chance that would assist them in becoming better Muslims and enhance the degree of compliance with the Quran prescriptions.
- Charity:
In order to complete the annual rituals of the Hajj, people have to draw blood and distribute the meat of the sacrificial animal among the members of the family and, the indigent. Other than the consumption of meat, it must be ensured that Muslim should give his donation to the life needy persons of the public.
- Hajj Pilgrimage:
Eid Al-Adha is directly connected with the HAJ because it takes place during the pilgrimage to Mecca which is one of the five Pillars of Islam. It is also revealed that pilgrims conduct the qurbani within rituals; this has a strong religious association. The event signifies all Muslims as one people equal in faith and possessing rights, with all congregating in the holy city to embark on performing the rites mandated by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Wrapping it up!
Eid Al-Adha is significant which remind everyone, especially of sacrifice while donating to the needy. In regard to the global issues as global societies live through poverty, conflict, and unequal distribution of resources, this festival conveys moral values of compassion and selflessness. Through these acts, it promotes the spirit of oneness among all the Muslims.
Eid Al-Adha is not only a religious event but an imperative representation of divine obedience, devotion, and interfaith harmony. It is a sign of repentance to God, humility to rationality, the purpose of donations, and the power of togetherness. During this blessed occasion, Muslims from all parts of the globe join hands together to promote the cardinal principles of the religion of Islam that revolves around the principles of tolerance and benevolence, irrespective of the diversity of the globe in terms of region or culture.