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Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice or Bakrid, holds a significant place in the Islamic calendar, celebrated with joy and devotion by Muslims across the globe. It commemorates the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) as narrated in the Quran.
The story of Ibrahim's sacrifice of his beloved son Isma'il (Ishmael) serves as a cornerstone of Islamic belief. As recounted in the Quran (Surah As-Saffat, verses 99-113), Ibrahim received a divine command in a dream to sacrifice his son as a test of his faith. Despite the immense emotional burden, Ibrahim prepared to fulfill the command, demonstrating his absolute submission to God's will.
However, as he was about to carry out the sacrifice, God intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed in place of Isma'il. This divine intervention signified the depth of Ibrahim's faith and the boundless mercy of God. The event underscores the paramount importance of faith, sacrifice, and obedience in Islamic teachings.
Eid ul-Adha is intimately intertwined with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The festival coincides with the culmination of Hajj, a journey to Mecca undertaken by millions of Muslims from around the world. While the Hajj pilgrimage is a physical and spiritual journey for those who perform it, Eid ul-Adha serves as a celebration of unity and solidarity for the entire Muslim community.
The festivities of Eid ul-Adha are marked by prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts among family and friends. In commemoration of Ibrahim's sacrifice, Muslims customarily sacrifice an animal, usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel, symbolizing the willingness to sacrifice for a higher purpose.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is meticulously divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the needy and less fortunate. This practice embodies the Islamic principles of generosity, compassion, and sharing with the community, particularly those in need.
Beyond the outward celebrations, Eid ul-Adha is also a time for spiritual reflection and introspection. It prompts Muslims to contemplate the significance of sacrifice and service to others. The festival reminds us of the values of compassion, humility, and gratitude for the blessings bestowed by God. It encourages individuals to engage in acts of kindness, extending a helping hand to those in need, mirroring the spirit of sacrifice embodied by Prophet Ibrahim.
Source: Eid ul Adha 2024: History, significance, all you need to know about feast of sacrifice