eid ul adha

EID MUBARAK!

Our country has so much diversity within itself. So many different religions and languages in large numbers. Ganesha Chathurthi, Christmas, Diwali, Vaisakhi and Bakrid are all celebrated with much enthusiasm in our country. This is why it is important for us and our children to be exposed to this diversity so that we can grow as a society to love and accept each other.

Whether your child is a Muslim or not, they should know the significance of Eid-ul Adha. It is a festival of great historical significance. Read on to know what this festival is all about.

What is Eid-ul-Adha?

Eid-ul-Adha, also called Eid-ul Zuha, is an Islamic festival that marks the sacrifice of Ibrahim. Eid-ul-Adha means “festival of sacrifice” or “feast of the sacrifice”. In India, the festival is commonly referred to as Bakrid, due to the tradition of sacrificing a goat. The celebrations commence after the Hujjaj – the pilgrims who go to Mecca every year – return.

What is the history behind it?

According to Islamic history, the great sacrifice happened when God decided to test Ibrahim, who was a Prophet of God. Prophet Ibrahim had a dream where God had instructed him to sacrifice his son. After his son agreed to the sacrifice, they walked up to the altar. When Ibrahim and his son showed the willingness to perform the sacrifice, God was impressed.

As the Prophet slit his son’s neck, he had expected to find his son’s dead body on the altar. Instead, he found ram whereas his son was still hale and hearty. This was because he had passed God’s test. So to commemorate this sacrifice, Muslims sacrifice an animal and offer prayers to mark the occasion.

How is it celebrated?

On Bakrid, people are supposed to sacrifice a goat or sheep and then share the meat with their family, neighbours and the poor. This is done to commemorate when Prophet Ibrahim had sacrificed his son.

This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Muslims all over the world. They wear new clothes when go around to distribute the meals prepared to all their relatives. A special prayer called “Dua” is recited for peace and prosperity.

Share this with a dear Muslim friend and let them know you are thinking about them. Eid Mubarak!