The annual festival of Eid al-Adha – the Festival of Sacrifice is here. Muslims around the world have begun their preparations for the Eid festival. This falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Muslim lunar calendar. After Eid al-Fitr, this is the second major Muslim festival. As it marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting is Eid al-Adha. July 10, is the date of celebration this year (2022) in most countries.

Eid al-Adha is a Muslim festival and holy day that embarks on the importance and honor of the sacrifice. Ibrahim (Abraham) was willing to make this huge sacrifice in obedience to God’s command. He was ready to sacrifice the life of his beloved son. So, when Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son, God intervened. Completely impressed with Ibrahim’s faith, he provided a sacrificial ram in the boy’s place. 

The culture now celebrates this event by sharing a slaughtered animal. This conventionally takes place in three parts. One part for themselves, one for the family, and the third part is given to those in need. We can all join in this spirit of sharing on this special day of Eid al-Adha.

History & Origin of the Eid Festival:

The Prophet Ibrahim is also known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism. He went through various trials and tests throughout his life towards his service to god. His major test was when he dreamt of Allah (god) who had commanded him to sacrifice his son, Ismael. Therefore, both Ibrahim and Ismael agreed to obey the will of God and headed towards Mount Moriah. Ismail lay down with his forehead against the ground with a sharp knife placed on his neck held by Ibrahim. God then sent a ram to be slaughtered in the place of Ismael right when Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son. Hence, Ibrahim then sacrificed the ram to the glory of God.

The significance of this event is in Ibrahim’s devotion to obey God’s decree in order to please him. Ibrahim’s faith was always unshaken even after the repeated testing he went through. And hence, he was rewarded by God. Eid al-Adha is among the biggest festivals & Islammic holiday of the year. It is also known as ‘Qurbani’ or the festival of sacrifice. Thus, reminding everyone of God’s mercy and blessings to those with relentless faith. 

The Cultural Emphasis

The festival also marks the end of Hajj, the obligated sacred pilgrimage for the followers of Islam. This pilgrimage is towards the holy city of Mecca. The primary ritual of Eid al-Adha is to slaughter a goat, sheep, or camel, followed by its distribution amongst the people around. Elaborating on the feast division mentioned above, there is a 3 part distribution of the sacrificed meat. One part of the meat goes to those in dire need or belonging to poor backgrounds, second part is for friends & neighbours. The remaining one-third is cherished by one’s family. 

This act emphasizes on sharing with those who are less fortunate or in need. People dress up and visit friends and family to celebrate the joyous day of Eid festival. A major element of the festival is prepping special meat dishes and desserts, and presenting gifts & money to one another.  

Different kinds of names associated with Eid al-Adha in different parts of the world. It is known as ‘Kurban Bayramı’ in Turkey, ‘Hari Raya Haji’ in Malaysia and Singapore, and ‘Tabaski’ in West Africa. Regardless of the name, the spirit of the holiday runs strongly among the Islamic community worldwide.

Traditions of Eid Festival:

Eid al-Adha is the celebration of gratitude and sacrifice. Preparation for this Eid festival begins a month in advance. Even fashion designers launch clothing lines especially dedicated to celebrating the occasion. The festivities include creating a shopping list for the delicious feast preparation and cleaning & decorating the houses. Local vendors set up many bazaars to sell goats, camels, sheep and cows.  Haggling and buying the animal at the best price is a tradition in itself. 

The morning of Eid begins with Muslims waking up early, cleaning & washing themselves. Followed up by dressing up in their finest clothes to perform the Eid prayers. Furthermore, there is greeting friends, neighbours and family at the mosque. Everyone greets each other with “Eid Mubarak”, that is wishing a blissful Eid festival to all. Rationing the meat from the sacrificed animal consumes the remainder of the day They distribute it around and move on to evening preps which involve dressing for outdoor barbecues. 

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