Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar. Known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” it marks not just a major event in Islamic history, but also a deeply spiritual moment of reflection and devotion. Among the two key Islamic festivals, Eid al-Adha (next to Eid al-Fitr) holds the highest importance, and is often referred to as the ‘Greater Eid.’
Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. This is the same period when Muslims perform Hajj – the pilgrimage to Mecca, which every able Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime. Eid al-Adha begins on this tenth day and continues for three more days known as the days of tashreeq. It is a time of major spiritual and communal significance.
Eid al-Adha literally means ‘Festival of the Sacrifice.’ At its heart lies a story of obedience, faith, and submission to the will of Allah (SWT).
The festival commemorates the story of the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), known as Abraham in Judeo-Christian traditions. According to Islamic belief, Ibrahim (AS) had a dream in which he was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his beloved son, Ishmael (AS). This dream came repeatedly, and Ibrahim understood it to be a divine command. Despite the immense personal cost, both Ibrahim and Ishmael were willing to obey Allah’s instruction.
Just as Ibrahim was about to carry out the act, Allah (SWT) stopped him and revealed that the dream was a test of his faith. A ram was sent from heaven to be sacrificed in place of his son. Ibrahim had passed the test – he had shown unwavering devotion and submission to the will of Allah (SWT).
This act of obedience is what Eid al-Adha celebrates. It’s not about the sacrifice itself, but the willingness to make that sacrifice for God.
Eid al-Adha is not just a historical commemoration; it is a living reminder of what it means to have true faith. The obedience and trust shown by both Ibrahim and Ishmael (AS) are seen as the highest examples of devotion to Allah (SWT). They were prepared to give up what they loved most purely out of submission to divine will.
This is why Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha—not to mourn a near-tragedy, but to reflect on what it means to put Allah first. The lesson is clear: true faith requires sacrifice, discipline, and trust.
Muslims aim to embody these qualities in their own lives. The festival becomes a time of self-examination – how strong is one’s faith? How sincere is one’s obedience? And what is one willing to give up for a higher spiritual purpose?
A key concept that underpins this reflection is taqwa – a deep consciousness and awareness of God. As seen in Ibrahim’s story, it’s not the outward ritual that matters most, but the sincerity behind it. A sacrifice without taqwa is just an act; with taqwa, it becomes worship.
On the day of Eid al-Adha, Muslims rise early to perform ghusl – a ritual purification. They dress in their best clothes, often new or freshly cleaned garments, apply perfume, and head to the mosque for a special Eid prayer performed in congregation.
Before and after the prayer, Muslims recite the takbir, glorifying Allah with phrases such as Allahu Akbar (God is the Greatest). These acts set the spiritual tone for the day and remind Muslims of the festival’s purpose.
The most symbolic part of Eid al-Adha is the act of qurbani – the ritual sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. This is a direct reflection of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son.
The meat from the qurbani is divided into three parts: one-third for the person making the sacrifice, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. This division ensures the act is not just a ritual but a form of charity and community support.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“If any Muslim feeds a Muslim when he is hungry, Allah will feed him with some of the fruits of paradise.” (Mishkat Al-Masabih)
In today’s world, not every Muslim can perform the slaughter themselves. Many live in cities or countries where such acts are restricted or impractical. Instead, they donate to organisations that perform the qurbani on their behalf in countries where the need is greatest.
For many in poorer regions like parts of Africa, South Asia, or the Middle East, the meat received during Eid al-Adha might be the only meat they consume all year. So Eid al-Adha becomes a powerful tool for social justice and equity – sharing blessings with those who need them most.
After the spiritual and charitable acts are done, the celebration continues with food, gatherings, and family time. A traditional meal often centres on a rich meat curry made from the qurbani portion. Families come together, exchange gifts, and reach out to relatives and friends near and far.
For Muslims who cannot sacrifice an animal, they still mark the day with prayer, reflection, and a shared meal. The spiritual focus remains: obedience, gratitude, and charity.
Eid al-Adha is far more than a religious holiday. It is a profound reminder of what it means to have faith in God, to trust in His wisdom, and to live a life of spiritual sincerity. It teaches Muslims to give, to reflect, and to remember the lessons of the past so they can guide the present.
In honouring the sacrifice of Ibrahim and Ishmael (AS), Muslims around the world take time each year to recommit themselves to their values – faith, obedience, compassion, and community.
