Eid al-Ada, the East Feast of Sacrifice, is a major Muslim holiday celebrated worldwide for three to four days, symbolizing self-sacrifice.
It is on the 10th day of Dur Hija, the 12th month of the Islamic moon calendar, and is the second major Muslim festival, after Eid al-Fitr. Also known as “Big Eid,” “Day of Sacrifice,” or “Pilgrim’s Day,” Eid al Ada begins with a special prayer called “Sarat ul Id,” held in the yards of open prayer.
Muslims around the world attend special prayers at mosques and Islamic centres.
Pakistanis believe that one meaningful way to celebrate and support the Palestinian cause during Eid al-Ada is to incorporate Palestinian-themed temporary design into our celebration.
Mehndi, a traditional and beloved body art, could be a powerful medium for expressing solidarity among Muslims.
By adorning our hands with symbols of Palestinian heritage, such as kefiers, olive branches, and Palestinian flags, we not only beautiful ourselves, but also make a statement of unity and support.
In Iran, prayers are held in mosques and open areas, with religious texts being recited nationwide.
In Iran, Muslims begin with Muslims attending Eid prayers on local mosques and unroofed grounds. Religious texts are read nationwide.
Wealthy families sacrifice ritually accepted animals (sheep, goat, camel, or cow) and distribute meat to the meat, the poor, and their communities.
Eid Al-Adha is also the time to visit someone you love and exchange gifts. In Iran, leaders of the Islamic Revolution often take this opportunity to grant pardons and commutes.
Eid al-Ada is a national holiday in Muslim countries, including Iran.
The holidays commemorate the willingness to sacrifice his son as the prophet Ibrahim commands him to do so. This story is told in the Quran.
Eid al-Ada is important as the day of sacrifice marks the climax of the pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina. Pilgrimage is thought to cleanse the soul and promote unity. Approximately 2.5 million pilgrims attend each year, performing acts of worship, and reaffirming their faith on sites like Kaaba.
Eid celebrations often begin with an extra morning prayer. Those who can afford it often sacrifice animals they buy at special livestock markets. Some of the meat of the sacrificed animals is distributed to the victims, their family and friends, and those in need. Some Muslims donate animal values to charities that distribute meat to vulnerable groups at a far-off cost.
Eid al-Adha is an opportunity for all Muslims to carry out similar rituals and demonstrate solidarity with important values shared by the Muslim community.
Beyond rituals and traditions, Eid al-Ada emphasizes the value of empathy, generosity and community support. It’s time to look back at our blessings and reach out to the less fortunate.
The act of sacrifice, whether literally or symbolically, serves as a reminder of our commitment to a higher purpose and responsibility to cherish each other.
Many Muslim communities offer elaborate feasts and homes are decorated with festive decorations.
Children receive gifts, families gather, share meals and create lasting memories.
A spirit of unity and gratitude permeates the atmosphere and cultivates a sense of unity and shared identity.
Eid al-Adha is the time of renewal and a reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in interaction with others.
Furthermore, Eid Al Ada’s global celebration highlights the diversity of the Islamic world.
The core rituals remain the same, but cultural expression and local traditions add a unique flavour to the festivals of various regions.
From decorating the vibrant streets of Pakistan to communal meals in Indonesia, each community presents its unique heritage while united in faith.
In recent years, the use of technology has also played a role in improving the EID experience.
Online platforms promote donations to charities and connect wealthy Muslims around the world with those in need. Social media platforms will become a virtual space for sharing Eid’s celebration greetings, recipes and images, fostering a sense of global community.
As Eid Al Ada approaches each year, Muslims around the world are eager to anticipate the opportunity to reunite with their faith, strengthen their communities, and thank them for the blessings of life.
Holidays serve as a powerful reminder of their shared commitment to unite them and their shared commitment to creating a more just and caring world.
Reported by Tohid Mahmoudpour