What is Eid-Ul-Addha? ईद अल-अज़हा क्या है?
Introduction:
Eid-Ul-Addha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is an important Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to God. The holiday falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. In this article, we will delve into the history behind Eid-Ul-Addha, how it is celebrated, and its significance.History Behind Eid-Ul-Addha:
The story of Eid-Ul-Addha goes back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim, who is considered a patriarch in Abrahamic religions. As per Islamic beliefs, Prophet Ibrahim had a dream in which God commanded him to sacrifice his son, Ismail. Initially, Ibrahim thought it was just a nightmare, but when he had the same dream repeatedly, he knew it was a command from God.Despite being distressed, Prophet Ibrahim decided to obey God's command and take his son to Mount Arafat for the sacrifice. As he was about to sacrifice his son, an angel appeared and informed him that he had fulfilled God's command, and instead, a sheep would be sacrificed in Ismail's place. This act of obedience and submission to God is commemorated every year during Eid-Ul-Addha.
How to Celebrate Eid-Ul-Addha:
Eid-Ul-Addha celebrations usually last for three days, with the first day being the most significant. The day begins with a special prayer known as Eid prayer, which is conducted in the morning. The prayer is performed in an open space or mosque and involves a sermon by the imam.After the prayer, Muslims gather with family and friends to share meals and exchange gifts. The day is also marked by the sacrifice of animals, such as sheep, goats, in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts, with one-third given to the poor and needy, another third to relatives, and the remaining third kept for personal consumption.
Importance of Eid-Ul-Addha:
Eid-Ul-Addha holds significant importance in the Islamic calendar, and its celebration carries several meanings and messages for Muslims. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of sacrifice and submission to God's will. Prophet Ibrahim's act of obedience to God's command serves as an example for Muslims to follow in their daily lives. It reminds them that they must prioritize their relationship with God above everything else and be willing to sacrifice anything for His pleasure.Secondly, Eid-Ul-Addha highlights the importance of charity and giving back to the community. The distribution of meat from the sacrificed animals to the poor and needy promotes the values of generosity and compassion. It teaches Muslims to be mindful of the less fortunate and to give to those in need, as per the Islamic teachings.
Finally, Eid-Ul-Addha fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. The celebrations bring together family, friends, and the community, and people share meals and exchange gifts, promoting social harmony and strengthening relationships.
