Why Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha?

Eid al Adha

Eid al-Adha is celebrated every year by all Muslims around the world. It falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah (the last month of the Islamic calendar) and is considered one of the holiest festivals in the Islamic calendar. But have you ever wondered why is it celebrated or what its significance is? Let us find out by reading this informative article below.

Eid al Adha is also called the “Festival of sacrifice” as Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) was asked to sacrifice his son, Ismail (PBUH) to prove his devotion towards Allah. The story is narrated in the 37th chapter of the holy Quran, which mentions that Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son in his dream. When Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) shared this news with his son Prophet Ismail (PBUH), he asked his father to do as he was commanded because his faith in Allah was also remarkable. So, just when both father and son were ready to perform the act and put his son’s head down to cut him, Allah sent angel Jibril (AS) with a huge ram to sacrifice it as a ransom for his son as he had fulfilled his vision. “Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good” (Chapter 37, verse 110). This was a clear trial to test Prophet Ibrahim which he passed with distinction. 

Until today, millions of Muslims around the world sacrifice sheep, goats, cows, or camels on Eid al Adha to signify the importance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) sacrifice. The meat is divided into three equal parts: one third is for home eaten by the family, one third is distributed to friends and relatives or among the neighbors, and the final third is donated to the needy and poor who cannot afford to sacrifice an animal. It is a great way to help those in need during this Holy festival. 

Eid al Adha also marks the significance of the ending of Hajj or Pilgrimage which is the fifth pillar of Islam. Hajj is performed by all Muslims who are physically and financially capable of making the journey to Mecca, the holiest city of Islam, where the Hajj is performed between the 8th to 10th Dhul Hijjah. 

This holy occasion is celebrated with great spirits and people usually follow the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Waking up for Fajr, taking a ghusl, wearing new clothes, and going for Eid Prayer are some of the traditions which people still follow. Enjoy this Eid with your friends and family and share this article with all those who wish to know more about why Muslims celebrate this festival.