Eid al-Adha (عيد الأضحى) or Feast of Sacrifice is a religious festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide as a commemoration of the willingness of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Ismael (AS) for Allah. It is one of two Eid festivals that Muslims Like Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha also begins with a short prayer followed by a khutba (sermon).
Eid al-Adha is 3 days long and starts on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijja of the lunar Islamic calendar. This is the day after the pilgrims in Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia by Muslims worldwide, descend from Mount Arafat. It happens to be approximately 70 days after the end of the month of Ramadan.
Men, women, and children are expected to dress in their finest clothing and perform the Eid prayer in mosques and open areas. Muslims who can afford to do so sacrifice the best animal (usually sheep, but also camels, cows, and goats) as a symbol of Ibrahim’s sacrifice. The sacrificed animals, have to meet certain age and quality standards.
At the time of sacrifice, Allah’s name is recited along with the offering statement. According to the Quran a large portion of the meat has to be given towards the poor and hungry people so they can all join in the feast which is held on Eid-ul-Adha. Eid ul-Adha is a concrete affirmation of what the Muslim community ethic means in practice. People in these days are expected to visit their relations, starting with their parents, then their families and friends.
Men, women, and children are expected to dress in their finest clothing and perform the Eid prayer in mosques and open areas. Muslims who can afford to do so sacrifice the best animal (usually sheep, but also camels, cows, and goats) as a symbol of Ibrahim’s sacrifice. The sacrificed animals, have to meet certain age and quality standards.
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