Festival of sacrifice

Waking up at dawn. Wearing crisp new clothes. Weaving through the masjid to stand for prayer. Waiting eagerly to relish the perfect sheer kurma. All of this is only a part of what makes Eid special. What else you ask, let’s find out!

Every year, at the end of Hajj — the annual pilgrimage to Makkah (or Mecca) — Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha (the festival of sacrifice). During the celebrations, people remember the trials and triumphs of Prophet Ibrahim (or Abraham). One of his trials was to obey the command of Allah to sacrifice his only son. He loved his son dearly, yet was ready to fulfill the command. God revealed to Prophet Ibrahim that the 'sacrifice' was already fulfilled as he showed his love for God above all, through his intention. God replaced his son, with a ram, and Prophet Ibrahim sacrificed it.

During Eid al-Adha celebrations, people remember this story and sacrifice an animal too. They say the name of God at the time of slaughter to be reminded that life is sacred. The meat from the sacrifice is shared: one-third to family and relatives, one-third to friends and one-third to the poor. They learn the importance of sacrificing. They remember that their little sacrifice in sharing their favourite books or treasured toys could bring a big smile on someone else’s face! The festival is a reminder of how small sacrifices could lead people on the path of happiness and faith in God.