Enga10/ꯏꯉꯥ꯱꯰/ঈঙা১০
Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid ul-Adha or Id-ul-Zuha, is an important Islamic festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command. However, before the sacrifice could be carried out, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
**Significance and Observance:**
1. **Sacrifice and Obedience:** Eid al-Adha honors Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and obedience to God’s will. It serves as a reminder of the importance of submission to God and the willingness to make sacrifices in the name of faith.
2. **Festival of Sacrifice:** Eid al-Adha is often referred to as the “Festival of Sacrifice” because it commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. In commemoration of this event, Muslims around the world perform the ritual slaughter of an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is given to the poor and needy, one-third is shared with relatives and friends, and one-third is kept for the family.
3. **Community and Charity:** Eid al-Adha is a time of communal prayers, gatherings, and feasting. It is also a time for Muslims to demonstrate their generosity and compassion by giving to those in need. The act of giving charity (zakat al-fitr) is particularly emphasized during this festival to ensure that all members of the community can participate in the celebrations.
4. **Spiritual Reflection:** Eid al-Adha is a time for spiritual reflection and renewal, as Muslims reflect on the lessons of sacrifice, humility, and devotion taught by Prophet Ibrahim. It is also an opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness for past sins and to strengthen their relationship with God through prayer, fasting, and acts of worship.
**Observances:**
Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festivities typically last for three days, although the exact duration may vary depending on regional customs and traditions. On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims gather at mosques or outdoor prayer grounds to perform the Eid prayer (Salat al-Eid), which is followed by a sermon (khutbah) delivered by the imam.
After the prayers, Muslims engage in various social and cultural activities, including visiting relatives and friends, exchanging greetings and gifts, and enjoying festive meals together. The sacrificial ritual, known as qurbani, is usually performed after the Eid prayer, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and those in need.
Overall, Eid al-Adha is a time of joy, gratitude, and spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide, as they come together to celebrate their faith, strengthen community bonds, and express gratitude for God’s blessings.