What is Eid-Ul-Adha?
Bakrid, also known as Eid-al-Adha or the festival of divine sacrifice, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the Islamic calendar. It honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of compliance and obedience to gods command. This festival holds great significance for Muslims worldwide, as it symbolizes acts of faith, unity and gratitude. It is celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Saudi Arabia. During the Hajj, pilgrims perform various rituals, including circumambulating the Kaaba, running between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and standing on the plain Arafah.
The culmination of Hajj is marked by the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha, or Bakrid when Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal, a goat, as a symbol of Ibrahim’s will to sacrifice for his god. The meat from the sacrificed animal gets distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate and needy to foster a sense of community ad charity.
Religious Significance of Bakrid:
Bakrid holds a deep religious and historical significance for Muslims. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim demonstrated a firm faith in gods command by willingly agreeing to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail (Ismael). As Ibrahim prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice, god intervened and replaced Ismail with a goat, signifying that he had fulfilled his devotion. This event highlights the importance of trust and submission to God’s will.
How is Eid-al-Adha celebrated?
- Preparation and Festivities: In the weeks leading up to Bakrid, they engage in various activities to make the feast of sacrifice memorable. Homes are cleaned and decorated nicely, new clothes are purchased and special meals are planned and prepared. On the day of Bakrid, Muslims attend congregational prayers at the Mosque, where the Imam delivers a sermon highlighting the significance of gratitude, faith and unity.
- Family, Friends and Feasting: Bakrid is a time for Muslims to come together as families and communities. Friends and families gather together to exchange greetings, share meals and express gratitude for the blessings received. Traditional dishes and sweets are prepared and relished all together. The spirit of sharing and generosity is encouraged, with individuals extending invitations to friends and neighbors, fostering a sense of unity.
- Community Outreach and Acts of Charity: Eid-al-Adha serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to society. Many use this occasion as an opportunity to engage in acts of charity, such as donating food, clothes or money to those in need. Organizations and mosques often organize special programs to distribute meat, groceries or other essentials to marginalized communities, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities.
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Date of Bakrid and Qurbani:
In 2023, Bakrid festival will begin on the evening of 28th June 2023 and last till the evening of 30th June 2023.
One of the central rituals of Bakrid is the Qurbani, which involves the sacrifice of an animal, typically a goat, sheep, cow or camel. The Qurbani is performed to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s act of devotion and to emulate his obedience to god’s will. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is kept for the family, one-third is shared with friends and neighbors and one-third is kept for the needy and less fortunate, emphasizing the importance of charity and compassion
Bakrid is a festival carrying deep spiritual and cultural significance. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, gratitude, sacrifice and generosity. Through acts of worship, charity and unity, the festival brings communities together to foster a sense of goodwill and love. As we celebrate Bakrid, let us embrace the lessons it offers and strive to emulate the values of selflessness and devotion in our lives.