Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important days within the Islamic calendar. It is a time when Muslims around the world come together in unity, generosity, and celebration. Eid al-Adha is also a time in which believers help vulnerable families and communities through kindness and sacrifice.
The Eid al-Adha Festival of Sacrifice honours the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and the sacrifice he was willing to take in submission to Allah after the commandment to sacrifice his son, Ismael (AS). Allah replaced his son with a ram; however, this act showed sincerity and obedience on behalf of Ibrahim (AS), which stands as a reminder to Muslims around the world today. Allah tells us of this story in the Quran by saying “And when he reached with him the age of effort, he said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you, so see what you think.’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.’” [Quran 37:102] Eid al-Adha is more than just a day of celebration; it is a reminder that faith means to have sincere trust in Allah and to care for all of His creation.
The exact date for Eid al-Adha changes every year and depends on the sighting of the moon, which can vary by country. However, within the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Lunar calendar. The day of Eid comes after the completion of Hajj (the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, which is the fifth Pillar of Islam).
People celebrate Eid al-Adha differently around the world, depending on their own culture and traditions. However, the act of worship on this day remains the same. The day begins with an Eid prayer performed in congregation, with Muslims wearing their best clothes and greeting one another with joy. After the prayer, friends and families get together to share meals, which is all part of the celebrations. Nonetheless, what truly defines the day of Eid al-Adha is Qurbani, the act of sacrifice.
Muslims who can financially afford to carry out the act of Qurbani must sacrifice an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is then divided into portions for family and friends, as well as for the vulnerable and those in need. Allah tells us in the Quran that “It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.” [Quran 22:37] During Eid al-Adha, Muslims are encouraged to think about struggling families who can’t afford a meal during Eid. Emaan Relief facilitates Qurbani programs, allocating your donation and delivering the Qurbani meat to those who are facing hardship and hunger across the world, so that they too can join in on the celebrations of Eid.
The celebrations of Eid al-Adha are tied to kindness and giving. As families enjoy their festive meals, millions around the world still live in hunger due to a lack of access to basic food. Eid is a time when Muslims turn their sacrifice into a lasting impact, providing a nutritious meal to those in need. Eid al-Adha unites Muslims across the globe, no matter where they’re from or the language they speak. It tightens family bonds and brings communities together. This unity is even more significant during times of difficulty. It has been narrated that the Messenger of Allah said, “The son of Adam does not do any action on the Day of Sacrifice more beloved to Allah than shedding blood (for Qurbani).” (Tirmidhi) Through your Qurbani donations to Emaan Relief, you’re ensuring your sacrifice reaches those who need it most, from orphans and widows to vulnerable families across the world.
The time of Eid is an opportunity to teach children about the values of kindness and faith. This is a great time to explain the story of Ibrahim (AS), along with encouraging them to give to charity and those in need. This way, not only are children learning about the celebrations of Eid al-Adha and its purpose, but also building on a responsibility to care for others. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) has said “He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while his neighbour goes hungry.” (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad)
The lessons of Eid al-Adha last throughout the year. The notion of sacrifice is not limited to Qurbani alone; it is about giving and sharing wealth for the sake of Allah at any time. Supporting projects that help change the lives of many is only an avenue to more rewards for yourself. Emaan Relief continues to work on projects that provide food and clean water to the vulnerable, sending emergency relief and support to communities that are in need.
Eid al-Adha is a reminder of faith and obedience, kindness and compassion. The Islamic Festival of Sacrifice calls Muslims to look inwards at their duty to others, along with reflecting on their own relationship with their Creator. Understanding the celebration of Eid al-Adha helps us value the joy of Eid that not only gathers and unites friends and families, but also the larger community around us. By sharing our blessings with those less fortunate, Eid al-Adha becomes a source of hope and dignity for millions across the world. Supporting Emaan Relief during this time can ensure the spirit of Eid can reach the homes of those who need it most, making the celebration of this sacred day one that’s filled with lasting reward for yourself and others, too. Donate your Qurbani through Emaan Relief and help provide a nutritious meal to a family in need.
