Muslims celebrate 2 Eids a year: Eid Al Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Both events are significant and deliver the same message: to love others and serve humanity. Eid Al Fitr takes place on 1st Shiwal, while the other takes place on 10 Zil Hajj, the month of pilgrimage. Here, we will talk about Eid Al Adha facts, but we will talk about its history and traditions first. So, without any delay, let us move to history.

A Story of Faith And Sacrifice: The Heart of Eid-al-Adha

What's the backstory of this beautiful holiday, then? Though the history of this event is not new to many,  discussing it here will let many people know about it. Its history takes us back to the era of Hazrat Ibraheem, a noble Prophet of Allah. Once, He dreamt, and Allah asked him to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail, a Prophet as well. Father decided to fulfill the dream of obeying Allah. As the father was about to run the knife into his son's throat, Allah sent an angel with a lamb, saying I have accepted your sacrifice, slaughter the lamb instead.

This is how this event started. Now, Muslims around the world celebrate this day with great honor and respect, slaughtering various animals like goats, lambs, and even cows. Let us change our topic from the history to the message for a while! As mentioned, both Eids have the same message to spread humanity and love. The sacrifice we make today is ordered to divide into three parts: family, relative, and poor. On the other hand, the sacrifice tells us about sacrificing everything harmful to us, whether ego or anger.

Traditions: Prayers, Pilgrimage, And Sacrifice

Muslims meet early on the morning of Eid for a specific prayer ritual. It's a moment to thank Allah for all our benefits and offer prayers for world peace and happiness. Do you know that around this time, millions of Muslims perform the Hajj, a pilgrimage to a sacred location in Saudi Arabia called Mecca? 

The thrilling part is about to begin: the sacrifice! You offer an animal for sacrifice, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, under the customs of the Prophet Ibrahim. The exciting part is that your family isn't one of many who can enjoy the meat. In actuality, it's split into three halves! You set aside three portions: one for your family to eat, one for the less fortunate, and one for our neighbors and acquaintances.

The way you celebrate Eid varies depending on your location. Some may exchange unusual presents with close ones, while others may adorn their hands with exquisite henna patterns. To make Eid a joyful celebration, enjoyable games and activities could be organized for everyone.

Eid al-Adha Facts

Now, let us discuss one of the most essential parts of our blog post. Eid Al-Adha facts are numerous and very interesting, but here are a few of them.  

The Movable Feast

The Gregorian calendar has no date for the Movable Fast of Sacrifice. This is because it is by the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the moon's cycles. The first crescent moon seen following a new moon marks the start of a new Islamic month. By occurring around 11 days earlier each year, this day "floats" throughout the Gregorian calendar. 

A Global Celebration

Muslims throughout the world celebrate this occasion in almost every nation. The fundamental ideas of faith, sacrifice, and community remain the same, even though customs and celebrations may differ slightly depending on the region. The joy of Eid brings Muslims together worldwide, from the crowded marketplaces of the USA to Pakistan.

Sharing Is Caring

The significance of granting blessings to the less fortunate is a fundamental purpose of the feast of sacrifice. Once an animal is sacrificed, the flesh is usually separated into three halves. You set aside a part for the family, give away another to the less fortunate, and give the remaining portion to our neighbors and acquaintances. This guarantees that everyone can partake in the holiday's abundance. 

An Occasion For Gifting

Eid al-Adha might involve exchanging gifts, while Eid ul-Fitr, celebrating the end of Ramadan, is more commonly associated with gift-giving. Adults may offer presents of cash or candies, and children may get new clothing or toys. It's a way to brighten people's days and strengthen relationships with loved ones during this season. 

Conclusion

Eid al-Adha is a vibrant and meaningful celebration that transcends cultures and brings Muslims together. So, the next time you hear about this sacred day, remember these Eid al-Adha facts: it's a movable feast filled with traditions, delicious food, and a reminder of the importance of faith, sacrifice, and sharing. Prepare for Eid al-Adha 2024, which will be on June 17th or 18th. 

Does Quran recitation on Eid day have some extra benefits?

The Quran and the hadiths, or sayings and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, do not mention any particular advantages to reciting the Quran on this Eid over other days. But in Islam, reciting the Quran is a very fulfilling deed. If you plan to learn Quran Recitation Online, contact Awwal Quran.

Is Eid ul-Adha 4 days?

The Feast of Sacrifice is a significant holiday Muslims observe over three to four days. Most Muslims participate in the special prayers offered at mosques and Islamic centers worldwide, including in the US. They also frequently give gifts and wear new attire.

How to offer Eid Prayer?

•  Make Intention: Set your prayer intention for Eid.

•  Ghusl (Optional): Perform a full body purification wash (recommended).

•  Takbirat: Raise hands and say "Allahu Akbar" with Imam.

•  Recite Supplication: Say the opening prayer quietly.

•  Three Takbirs: Raise hands with three additional "Allahu Akbar."

•  Listen to the Imam: Listen attentively as the Imam recites the Quran.

•  Ruku & Sujud: Follow regular prayer movements (bowing, prostrating).

•  Repeat Rakah: Perform a similar cycle (standing, recitation).

•  Final Takbirs: Raise hands and say "Allahu Akbar" again (3 times).

•  Supplication & Salam: Offer prayers and conclude prayer.

Is it compulsory for everyone to make a sacrifice on Eid Ul Adha?

No, sacrificing an animal on Eid Ul Adha is not mandatory for everyone. It's highly recommended, but those with limited means are exempt.