Eid al-Adha Sacrifice, Feast, and Faith – What You Need to Know!

Article Heading: Unveiling Eid al-Adha: Exploring the Meaning, Traditions, and Global Celebrations of the "Feast of Sacrifice"

Eid al-Adha, a festival deeply rooted in faith and community, is now being celebrated by over two billion Muslims across the globe. Known as the "Feast of Sacrifice," this significant Islamic holiday commemorates a powerful act of devotion and is marked by prayer, communal gatherings, and acts of charity.

At its core, Eid al-Adha honors Prophet Abraham's unwavering commitment to God, as he willingly prepared to sacrifice his son. In a divine intervention, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead, symbolizing obedience and faith. This story forms the bedrock of the holiday's significance.

When is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

Eid al-Adha always falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final and holiest month in the Islamic calendar. While the specific Gregorian date varies each year due to the lunar calendar, the spiritual significance remains constant.

This year, the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, commenced on June 5th. It's important to note that the date as declared by the Saudi Arabian government is particularly relevant for those undertaking the Hajj.

As Mohsen Goudarzi, Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies at Harvard Divinity School, explained, "Around the world, people do [observe] this far from Mecca, they just face the Meccan sanctuary during their prayers and rituals." Muslims not participating in the Hajj typically begin their Eid al-Adha observances on June 6th, although the precise date can vary depending on local governmental declarations. "If people in Iran, for example, or in Indonesia or in Pakistan, their government can say, 'You know what the 10th day is this Friday. And so, this is the day when we come together, those who are not going to Mecca, which is the vast majority of the public,'" Goudarzi noted.

How do Muslims observe Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha is a multifaceted celebration, blending profound religious observance with joyous communal activities. Here's a glimpse into how Muslims around the world mark this special occasion:

• Prayers: The day typically begins with a special Eid prayer service held at mosques.
• Community: Visiting loved ones, exchanging greetings, gifts ("Eidi"), and sharing festive meals are central to the celebration. Homemade sweets are a common treat.
• Following the Sunnah: Muslims often emulate the practices of Prophet Muhammad (Sunnah), such as bathing, wearing their best attire, and reciting "Takbeer" (praising God).
• Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice): Those who can afford it may perform a Qurbani, symbolizing Abraham's willingness to sacrifice. Permitted animals include goats, cows, sheep, lambs, and camels. The meat is traditionally divided into thirds: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the needy.
• Charity: Distributing meat to the less fortunate is an integral part of Eid al-Adha, emphasizing compassion and social responsibility. Many donate to charities that provide meat to communities facing food insecurity.

A Time for Togetherness and Reflection

Beyond the rituals and traditions, Eid al-Adha is fundamentally a time for communal enjoyment and spiritual reflection. As Goudarzi highlighted, "The whole festival is very much geared towards communal enjoyment." The day is often characterized by a festive atmosphere, with communities coming together to celebrate their shared faith and values.

While participation in the Qurbani is encouraged, it's not compulsory. The essence of Eid al-Adha lies in the spirit of sacrifice, compassion, and devotion to God.

The Hajj Pilgrimage: A Journey of Faith

A cornerstone of Eid al-Adha is the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. This is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. The Hajj involves a series of rituals performed over several days in and around Mecca, fostering a profound sense of unity and spiritual connection among pilgrims from all corners of the world.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Faith, Sacrifice, and Community

Eid al-Adha is more than just a holiday; it's a powerful reminder of faith, sacrifice, and the importance of community. Whether through prayer, charitable giving, or communal gatherings, Muslims around the world embrace the spirit of Eid al-Adha, reaffirming their commitment to God and to one another.

Contributing: Mariyam Muhammad, The Columbus Dispatch, part of the USA TODAY Network

Tags: Eid al-Adha, Muslim holiday, Feast of Sacrifice, Islamic festival, Hajj pilgrimage, Mecca, Abraham sacrifice, Islamic traditions, Muslim celebration, Mohsen Goudarzi

Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2025/06/06/eid-al-adha-2025-explainer/84050822007/