Eid al-Adha: Celebrations and Muslim expectations

Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid-el-Kabir in many parts of the world, is a significant Islamic festival celebrated by Muslims globally. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command.

The story of Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and the eventual substitution of a ram for his son serves as a timeless lesson in submission and devotion to Allah.

The Spiritual Significance of Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It marks the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, where Muslims from all over the world gather to perform the sacred rituals. The Eid is celebrated for three days, during which Muslims partake in prayers, feasts, and charitable acts.

The Quran mentions the significance of the event in Surah As-Saffat (37:102-107):

“And when he [Ibrahim] reached with him [Ismail] the age of exertion, he said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think.’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.’ And when they had both submitted and he put him down upon his forehead, We called to him, ‘O Ibrahim, You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. Indeed, this was the clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (Quran 37:102-107)

This event symbolises the importance of obedience and complete trust in Allah’s divine plan, even in the face of great sacrifice.

Muslim Expectations on Eid al-Adha

Worship and Prayer

Eid al-Adha begins with the Eid prayer, which is a congregational prayer performed in mosques and open spaces. It consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer) and is preceded by a sermon (khutbah) delivered by the Imam. The prayer is an expression of gratitude to Allah for His countless blessings and an acknowledgment of His authority over all aspects of life.

Sacrifice (Qurbani)

One of the central rituals of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, typically a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This act commemorates the sacrifice that Ibrahim was willing to make and serves as a reminder of the importance of giving up something valuable to demonstrate obedience to Allah’s commands.

Allah says in the Quran in Surah Al-Hajj (22:37):

“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.” (Quran 22:37)

Charity and Generosity

Eid al-Adha emphasises the importance of charity and sharing with those less fortunate. Muslims are encouraged to distribute the meat from the sacrificed animal among family, friends, and the needy. This act strengthens bonds within the community and ensures that everyone can join in the festivities.

The Quran urges Muslims to share their blessings with others in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

“And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], ‘We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'”

These verses emphasise the selflessness and sincerity in giving charity and helping those in need, solely for the sake of Allah’s pleasure.