Alternative Spelling:
Eid al-Adha / Eid al-Azha / Eid ul-Adha / Eid ul-Azha / Eid al-Adha
What is Eid al-Adha?
- Eid al-Adha is an important Islamic festival whose name means “Festival of Sacrifice” in Arabic, derived from the words ‘Eid’ (festival) and ‘al-Adha’ (sacrifice). It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah, a story also referenced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in his teachings.
- Eid al-Adha holds profound theological significance as it marks the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage and serves as a reminder of submission to Allah’s will. The festival is considered one of the two major Islamic Eid holidays and is observed by Muslims worldwide as an act of faith and devotion.
- Eid al-Adha has been recognized by Islamic scholars as a central event that reinforces the themes of sacrifice, compassion, and community. Its observance is rooted in the historical narrative of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), and its practices have been consistently upheld since the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who emphasized its importance in Islamic tradition.
- Eid al-Adha carries deep spiritual meaning, encouraging Muslims to reflect on the values of selflessness, gratitude, and trust in Allah. The act of sacrifice during this festival symbolizes the willingness to give up personal interests for the sake of faith and to support those in need within the community.
- Eid al-Adha is observed through specific rituals, including the communal prayer and the sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate, promoting social welfare and reinforcing the principles of charity and unity in contemporary Muslim societies.
Examples of Eid al-Adha
- Greeting friends and family: "Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Eid al-Adha filled with peace and happiness."
- Explaining the significance: "Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, following the command of Allah, as taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)."
- Inviting someone to a celebration: "Please join us for a special dinner on Eid al-Adha as we celebrate together."
- Discussing charitable acts: "During Eid al-Adha, it is customary to share meat with the less fortunate in our community."
- School or workplace announcement: "Our office will be closed on Eid al-Adha to allow employees to observe this important holiday."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "The day of Eid al-Adha, the day of staying at Mina, and the days of Tashreeq are our festival, O people of Islam."
Sunan Abu Dawud 2419 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "The first thing we do on this day of Eid al-Adha is to pray, then return and slaughter the sacrifice. Whoever does that, he has acted in accordance with our Sunnah..."
Sahih Bukhari 5545 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "No days are greater and more beloved to Allah for you to do good deeds than these ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah), so increase in them your declaration of the oneness of Allah (tahleel), your exaltation of Him (takbeer), and your praise of Him (tahmeed)." (Referring to the days culminating in Eid al-Adha.)
Jami' at-Tirmidhi 757 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Eid al-Adha
What does Eid al-Adha mean in English?
Eid al-Adha means Festival of Sacrifice.
When should Muslims say Eid al-Adha?
Muslims should say Eid al-Adha greetings to each other on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah and during the days of the festival.
Why do Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha?
Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
What is the main ritual performed during Eid al-Adha?
The main ritual performed during Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel to honor the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim.
How long does Eid al-Adha last?
Eid al-Adha lasts for four days, starting on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
