Eid-ul-Adha is a Muslim festival that marks the end of Hajj or Pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is a sacred Islamic event that is celebrated every year around the world with sacrifice, prayer and food. The Pilgrimage to Mecca also known as Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation upon adult Muslims whose health and means permit. God says in the Holy Qur'an: "In it are manifest signs, it is the place of Abraham, and whoso enters it, enter peace. And Pilgrimage to the House is a duty which men-those who can find a way thither-owe to God. And whoever disbelieves, let him remember that God is surely independent of all creatures” (3:98).
The history of Eid-ul-Adha can be traced back to the story which states that Prophet Abraham (peace be on him) was instructed by God, in a dream to raise the foundations of the Ka’aba, a cubic structure in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Muslims believe that even after undergoing a lot of trials and tribulations on his way to Mecca, God revealed in a dream to Prophet Abraham (peace be on him) to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ishmael (peace be on him). Prophet Abraham (peace be on him) and his son set off to a place called Mina for the sacrifice. As they went, Satan attempted to lead Abraham astray by disobeying God and not to sacrifice his beloved son. But Prophet Abraham remained steadfast in his decision and true to God, and drove Satan away. As Prophet Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son, God stopped him and gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead.
Popularly known as the festival of sacrifice, this Islamic celebration commemorates Prophet Abraham’s unselfish act of sacrificing his own son to God. The festival reminds us of the mercy and benefits bestowed upon mankind by God. Muslims commemorate this outstanding act of sacrifice by slaughtering an animal such as sheep, camel, cow, or a goat. When this is done, 1/3 of the meat goes to the needy, 1/3 is given to neighbors and friends, and 1/3 stays with the family who offered the sacrifice.
Eid-ul-Adha occurs on the tenth of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. The celebration begins with congregational Prayer followed by a sermon. Traditionally, this is followed by the sacrifice. The rest of the day is devoted to visiting friends and family. Worshippers exchange the traditional Arabic greeting 'Eid Mubarak' and exchange gifts. The evidence for the sacrifice can be found in the Holy Qur'an chapter 22 verse 38. God says, “Their flesh reaches not God, nor does their blood, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him. Thus has He subjected them to you that you may glorify God for His guiding you. And give glad tidings to those who do good.
Alimat Abdulazeez-Onabanjo