Eid ul-Adha Mubarak - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Eid ul-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the two major Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide each year. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month in the Islamic calendar.
- 2. The holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God. However, before Ibrahim could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
- 3. In honor of this event, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel as a symbolic act of sacrifice. The meat is divided into three parts – one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the less fortunate.
- 4. Eid ul-Adha is a time for Muslims to come together with family and friends to celebrate and share meals. It is also a time for giving thanks to God for His blessings and for remembering the less fortunate in society.
- 5. The holiday begins with a special prayer called the Salat al-Eid, which is performed in congregation at mosques or open prayer grounds. The prayer is followed by a sermon, known as the Khutbah, which usually focuses on the importance of sacrifice, obedience, and gratitude.
- 6. During Eid ul-Adha, Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and goodwill towards others. This may involve giving gifts, donating money to the poor, or volunteering in the community.
- 7. Muslims are also encouraged to dress in their finest clothes and adorn their homes with decorations to mark the festive occasion. Many people also exchange greetings and well-wishes, saying "Eid Mubarak" or "Eid ul-Adha Mubarak" to one another.
- 8. In some Muslim-majority countries, Eid ul-Adha is observed as a public holiday, with schools, businesses, and government offices closed for the day. This allows people to participate in the festivities and spend time with their loved ones.
- 9. The exact date of Eid ul-Adha varies each year, as it is determined by the sighting of the new moon. The holiday lasts for four days, with the main day of celebration falling on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
- 10. Overall, Eid ul-Adha is a time of reflection, gratitude, and unity for Muslims around the world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice, obedience, and generosity in Islam, as well as a time to strengthen bonds with family, friends, and the wider community.