With all COVID-19 protocols in place, devotees from all over the country offered namaz, on Wednesday, on the occasion of the three-day Eid-al-Adha, Baqreid, or Id-ul-Zuha. Millions of Muslims across the globe celebrate the festival with fervour, which takes place after the end of Haj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and celebrates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son on Allah’s command.
The festival is the second most important holiday among the Muslim community, the first being Eid al-Fitr.
The day is celebrated to pay respects to Prophet Ibrahim, who was considered to be a staunch devotee of Allah. Since Prophet Mohammad’s time, Muslims have sacrificed animals (Qurbani) on the day to honour Ibrahim’s sense of sacrifice.
Many people misunderstand, but let us tell you that Eid-al-Adha is not about shedding blood to please God but about one’s ability to give up something that they hold dear in devotion to God.
During the celebrations, it is also necessary to share the sacrificed animal’s meat in three equal parts –for yourself, for family and friends, and the poor. Eid-al-Adha sends a simple message of piety, charity, and equality.
The Quran states, “Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.” (22:37)
What is the history behind Eid-al-Adha?
The story of Eid al-Adha is that Prophet Ibrahim had a dream in which he was asked to sacrifice his most dear possession, his 10-year-old son Ishmael. Ibrahim, who was a believer, readily agreed to do that and alit his son’s throat.
However, when Ibrahim opened his eyes, he saw Ishmael was alive, and an animal had been killed instead. Since then, Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal that is dear to them to prove their devotion and love for Allah.
This Eid-al-Adha, may we all learn to sacrifice and to share. Happy Eid-al-Adha to all.
Source: dnaindia.com