Significance of the Name

‘Eid al-Adha’ translates to ‘Festival of the Sacrifice’ in Arabic, reflecting the holiday’s central theme of sacrifice in obedience to Allah.

Commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s Faith

Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, God provided a lamb to be sacrificed instead.

One of the Two Major Islamic Holidays

Eid al-Adha is one of the two major holidays in Islam, the other being Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

Timing of the Celebration

Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The date varies on the Gregorian calendar each year.

Connection to Hajj

Eid al-Adha occurs at the end of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims are required to make at least once in their lifetime.

Ritual of Sacrifice

The main ritual of Eid al-Adha is the qurbani, or sacrifice, where Muslims who can afford to do so slaughter a sheep, goat, cow, or camel to remember Ibrahim’s sacrifice.

Distribution of Meat

The meat from the qurbani is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for the poor and needy.

Eid Prayers

Eid al-Adha begins with a special prayer, known as the Salat al-Eid, which is performed in congregation.

Festival Attire

It is customary for Muslims to wear new clothes or their best attire on Eid al-Adha.

Charitable Giving

Charitable giving is a significant aspect of Eid al-Adha, with Muslims encouraged to give to those less fortunate during this time.

Global Celebration

Eid al-Adha is celebrated by Muslims around the world, making it a truly global event.

Festive Meals

Eid al-Adha is marked by festive meals, with special dishes varying by culture and region.

Visiting Family and Friends

Visiting family and friends is a common practice during Eid al-Adha, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Eid Greetings

The traditional greeting for Eid al-Adha is “Eid Mubarak,” which means “Blessed Eid.

Duration of the Festival

Eid al-Adha lasts for four days, from the 10th to the 13th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Public Holiday

In many Muslim-majority countries, Eid al-Adha is a public holiday, and schools and offices are closed.

Gift-Giving

Gift-giving is a common practice during Eid al-Adha, particularly gifts for children.

Spiritual Reflection

Eid al-Adha is a time of spiritual reflection for Muslims, as they consider the themes of faith, sacrifice, and commitment to God’s commands.

Takbir

The Takbir, a form of dhikr that involves the repetition of “Allahu Akbar,” is recited during Eid al-Adha.

Unity and Brotherhood

Eid al-Adha promotes a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, as they come together to pray, celebrate, and support those in need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the significance of Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

When is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The date varies on the Gregorian calendar each year.

What is the main ritual of Eid al-Adha?

The main ritual of Eid al-Adha is the qurbani, or sacrifice, where Muslims who can afford to do so slaughter a sheep, goat, cow, or camel to remember Ibrahim’s sacrifice.

How is the meat from the qurbani distributed?

The meat from the qurbani is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for the poor and needy.

How is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

Eid al-Adha is celebrated with special prayers, festive meals, wearing new or best attire, visiting family and friends, giving gifts, and performing acts of charity.