EXPLAINED: WHAT IS EID-AL-ADHA?

Eid-al-Adha or the feast of sacrifice is the second and the largest of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam.  

It is one of the biggest festivals observed by Islam believers and followers. Eid-al-Adha is observed with reverence to honor the unwavering dedication displayed by Abraham and Ishmael. The forthcoming celebration of this auspicious occasion fall on June 28. Renowned as the festival of sacrifice, it holds profound religious significance within the Islamic faith. During this momentous day, adherents of Islam commemorate the profound act of faith exhibited by the Prophet Ibrahim, who demonstrated unwavering obedience when commanded by God to offer his son as a sacrifice. 

Eid- al- Adha holds immense religious significance as it signifies the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, an important occasion in the Islamic faith. In contrast, Eid-ul-Fitr symbolizes the completion of the sacred month of Ramadhan. According to the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid-al- Adha is observed on the tenth day of Dhu-al-Hijja, spanning a duration of four consecutive days. However, owing to the influence of the Gregorian calendar, the dates of this festival undergo a notable shift of approximately 11 days each year. Eid-al -Adha is also known by alternative names such as Eid-al- Azha and Eidul-Azha. 

Muslims celebrate Eid-al -Adha in various ways, reflecting the joyous and sacred nature of the occasion. One of the ways is that they attend congregational prayers in which they attend mosques or designated prayer areas to perform the special Eid prayer. This prayer is an essential part of the celebration, allowing Muslims to express gratitude and devotion. They also dress in finery to signify the importance and festivity of the occasion. People also exchange heartfelt greetings of ‘Eid Mubarak’ which means ‘Blessed Eid’ as a way to convey good wishes and celebrate the joyous occasion. Special meals and feasts are prepared to commemorate Eid-al-Adha. 

Here’s to wishing all our Muslim Friends a Happy Eid-al- Adha!!