Eid al-Adha: Muslims worldwide prepare with caution for a quieter festival

July 20, 2020 by Leave a Comment

A Muslim man learns and prays in a mosque in India. Photo by Riccardo Maria Mantero, courtesy of Flickr

SUNSET THURSDAY, JULY 30: Muslims worldwide express joyful appreciation for Ibrahim (Abraham) and his complete willingness to make a sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice. (Note: Dates and spellings vary.) On the morning of Eid, crowds typically spill out of mosques, into open fields and in parks, as Muslims celebrate both Ibrahim’s devotion and the miracle that took place on the sacrificial altar; this year, coronavirus measures will change how Muslims are gathering. Officially, Eid al-Adha begins after the descent of Mount Arafat by the pilgrims on Hajj in Mecca.

NEWS 2020: Saudi Arabia recently announced that for Eid al-Adha, prayers will only take place at certain mosques and the government’s preventative measures will be carried out (read more in this article, from Arab News). In Morocco, government officials are warning citizens to limit travel and avoid crowds for Eid al-Adha; in Indonesia, fewer animals will be sacrificed this year due to a lower demand. In Iraq, the nationwide nighttime curfew will be lifted after Eid al-Adha, and malls, airports and restaurants reopened; in multiple countries worldwide, online purchases will be the most popular (and only, in some regions) route for animal sacrifice for Eid al-Adha in 2020.

IBRAHIM, ISHMAEL AND THE MIRACLE

Two joyous religious holidays are observed by all Muslims each year: Eid al-Fitr, ending the fasting month of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha.

According to Muslim tradition, when Ibrahim lowered his arm to slaughter his son, the Archangel Gabriel placed a ram on the altar in place of Ishmael. In commemoration, Muslims sacrifice an animal on Eid al-Adha, keeping one-third of the share; giving one-third to relatives and neighbors; and donating the remaining one-third to the poor.

As often happens near this Eid, or holiday, special programs adapted to these Muslim customs help to provide a holiday meal to all observant families. One example: Here’s a news story this week from the Toledo, Ohio, area.

On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims dress in their finest clothing and offer prayers (in most years, in congregation). Following prayers, adherents exchange festive greetings and give gifts (Eidi) to children. Even non-Muslims are invited to take part in the joyous feasts and festivities.

THE ‘GREATER EID’                

Sometimes called the Greater Eid (the Lesser Eid, Eid ul-Fitr, occurs at the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha calls able Muslims to sacrifice a halal animal. By sharing, it is ensured that even the most impoverished person may celebrate Eid. The animal sacrifice—which must meet specific age and quality requirements—may be performed anytime before sunset on the final day of Eid. Families that do not own an animal to slaughter contribute to a charity that will provide meat for the needy.

The events of Eid al-Adha often last between one and four days, although in some regions, various festivities carry on much longer.

Eid al-Adha: Worldwide celebrations begin for ‘Greater Eid’

August 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Muslims Eid al-Adha, Korea

Eid al-Adha in Korea, 2017. Photo by Republic of Korea, courtesy of Flickr

SUNSET SATURDAY, AUGUST 10: Muslims worldwide express joyful appreciation for Ibrahim (Abraham) and his complete willingness to make a sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice.

Note: Dates and spellings vary. The Saudi Supreme Court recently announced that Eid al-Adha 2019 will fall on Sunday, August 11, with moon sightings varying by country. It’s estimated that, this year, Eid al-Adha will fall on August 10 in the United States; in the United Arab Emirates, Eid al-Adha will be August 11; in the United Kingdom, it will be celebrated August 12. Around the world, Eid celebrations last several days. 

On the morning of Eid, crowds spill out of mosques, into open fields and in parks around the world, as Muslims celebrate both Ibrahim’s devotion and the miracle that took place on the sacrificial altar. Officially, Eid al-Adha begins after the descent of Mount Arafat by the pilgrims on Hajj in Mecca; Muslims across the globe gather with family and friends and offer prayers in congregation.

Cupcakes decorated fancy for Eid

Cupcakes for Eid. Photo by The Baking Tray, courtesy of Flickr

IBRAHIM, ISHMAEL AND THE MIRACLE AT THE ALTAR

Two joyous religious holidays are observed by all Muslims each year: Eid al-Fitr, ending the fasting month of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha.

On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims dress in their finest clothing and offer prayers in congregation. Following prayers, adherents exchange joyous greetings and give gifts (Eidi) to children. Visits are made, and even non-Muslims are invited to take part in the feasts and festivities.

According to Muslim tradition, when Ibrahim lowered his arm to slaughter his son, the Archangel Gabriel placed a ram on the altar in place of Ishmael. In commemoration, Muslims sacrifice an animal on Eid al-Adha, keeping one-third of the share; giving one-third to relatives and neighbors; and donating the remaining one-third to the poor.

THE ‘GREATER EID’                

Sometimes called the Greater Eid (the Lesser Eid, Eid ul-Fitr, occurs at the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha calls able Muslims to sacrifice a halal animal. By sharing, it is ensured that even the most impoverished person may celebrate Eid. The animal sacrifice—which must meet specific age and quality requirements—may be performed anytime before sunset on the final day of Eid. Families that do not own an animal to slaughter contribute to a charity that will provide meat for the needy.

It is Islamic custom to exchange joyful greetings, present gifts to children and visit with family and friends during this joyous time. The events of Eid al-Adha last between one and four days, although in some regions, festivities carry on much longer.

 

Eid al-Adha: Joyous Muslim holiday brings visits, vacations

August 31, 2017 by Leave a Comment

SUNSET THURSDAY, AUGUST 31: Muslims worldwide express joyful appreciation for Ibrahim (Abraham) and his complete willingness to make a sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice. (Note: Dates and spellings vary.) On the morning of Eid, crowds spill out of mosques, into open fields and in parks around the world, as Muslims celebrate both Ibrahim’s devotion and the miracle that took place on the sacrificial altar. Officially, Eid al-Adha begins after the descent of Mount Arafat by the pilgrims on Hajj in Mecca; Muslims across the globe gather with family and friends and offer prayers in congregation.

NEWS 2017: Saudi Arabia recently announced that Eid al-Adha 2017 will begin on September 1 (the evening of August 31). This year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia declared a 16-day holiday for the festival of Eid al-Adha; in Turkey, the holiday period will last 10 days.

IBRAHIM, ISHMAEL AND THE MIRACLE AT THE ALTAR

Two joyous religious holidays are observed by all Muslims each year: Eid al-Fitr, ending the fasting month of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha.

On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims dress in their finest clothing and offer prayers in congregation. Following prayers, adherents exchange joyous greetings and give gifts (Eidi) to children. Visits are made, and even non-Muslims are invited to take part in the feasts and festivities.

According to Muslim tradition, when Ibrahim lowered his arm to slaughter his son, the Archangel Gabriel placed a ram on the altar in place of Ishmael. In commemoration, Muslims sacrifice an animal on Eid al-Adha, keeping one-third of the share; giving one-third to relatives and neighbors; and donating the remaining one-third to the poor.

THE ‘GREATER EID’                

Sometimes called the Greater Eid (the Lesser Eid, Eid ul-Fitr, occurs at the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha calls able Muslims to sacrifice a halal animal. By sharing, it is ensured that even the most impoverished person may celebrate Eid. The animal sacrifice—which must meet specific age and quality requirements—may be performed anytime before sunset on the final day of Eid. Families that do not own an animal to slaughter contribute to a charity that will provide meat for the needy.

It is Islamic custom to exchange joyful greetings, present gifts to children and visit with family and friends during this joyous time. The events of Eid al-Adha last between one and four days, although in some regions, festivities carry on much longer.

EID AL-ADHA 2017

Tourist attractions appeal to millions of travelers: Travel peaks during the Eid al-Adha holiday period, and destinations offering packages are plentiful: a Dubai-based agency has launched five new holiday packages for Eid al-Adha; travel site Skyscanner lists the 10 most popular European cities for Eid travelers; Khaleej Times has listed Eid staycation ideas for those in the UAE.

India campaign discourages Eid cow sacrifice: Muslims in Hyderabad have appealed to other Indian Muslims to not sacrifice cows and bulls for Eid al-Adha, in respect for neighboring Hindus. (Read more at One India.) A countrywide campaign was launched for the cause, and according to reports, the Islamic seminary’s fatwa department has ruled that Islam does not sanction hurting the views or opinions of neighbors with other beliefs. In India, Eid al-Adha 2017 will begin in the evening of September 1.

Hajj 2017: Millions of Muslims enter Mecca for annual pilgrimage

August 14, 2017 by Leave a Comment

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30: Mecca is the destination for millions of Muslim pilgrims partaking in the annual pilgrimage: by every mode of transportation available and from countries that span the globe, adherents are arriving for Hajj 2017, the annual Islamic pilgrimage that is widely considered the largest annual gathering in the world. Note: Dates can vary depending on moon sightings.

NEWS UPDATES: Pilgrims began pouring into Mecca in mid-August. Nigeria and Ghana sent some of the first pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, and while some hiccups are causing worry – such as the 2,201 pilgrims from Bauchi who have not yet been able to depart – publications also report the addressing of various issues, such as the conflict between Qatari and Saudi authorities over various Hajj aspects.

Pilgrims and their families and friends worldwide can access Hajj news, live broadcasts, lists of embassies and Hajj service providers via the Hajj App, which was released just days before the official start of Hajj 2017. Launched by Arab News and endorsed by the Muslim World League, the Hajj App is free for users and also will feature a “pilgrim tracker,” through which location can be shared and pilgrims’ family and friends can follow them in real time.

The Hajj is one of the “five pillars of Islam.” In fact, the pilgrimage is regarded as a religious duty that must be undertaken by every adult Muslim at least once in his or her lifetime—if that person has the mental, physical and financial ability to make the long journey. Despite that word “duty,” Muslims regard Hajj as an experience to be treasured. The ritual of a pilgrimage to Mecca stretches back centuries before the advent of Islam—to the time of Ibrahim (Abraham)—yet it was the Islamic prophet Muhammad who cemented the rituals of Hajj in the seventh century. (Learn more, and get news updates, from the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia.) The uniform method of performing the rituals of Hajj is meant to demonstrate both the solidarity of the Muslim people and their submission to Allah (God).

THE ORIGINS OF HAJJ: ABRAHAM, HAGAR & THE BLACK STONE

Islamic tradition tells that in approximately 2000 BCE, Abraham was ordered by God to leave his wife, Hagar, and his son, Ishmael, in the desert of Mecca while he traveled to Canaan. After Abraham left, food and water quickly ran out; Hagar ran back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times. Exhausted, Hagar laid Ishmael on the sand and begged God for help. Miraculously, a well sprang up at the baby’s feet, and that well—the Zamzam Well—continues to provide ample water to Hajj pilgrims today. Later, according to Muslim tradition, Abraham was commanded to build the Kaaba, so that people could perform pilgrimage there. It is believed that the Archangel Gabriel brought the Black Stone from heaven to be attached to the Kaaba, and today, the Black Stone marks the beginning and ending point of each circle a pilgrim makes as he circulates the Kaaba during Hajj.

JAHILIYYAH: MUHAMMAD REDEDICATES THE KAABA

During a time known as jahiliyyah in pre-Islamic Arabia, the Kaaba had become surrounded by pagan idols. To cleanse the Kaaba, the Prophet Muhammad led his followers from Medina to Mecca in what is now regarded as the first Hajj. The pagan idols were destroyed, and Muhammad rededicated the Kaaba to God. At this point, Hajj became one of the five pillars of Islam, and adherents have been making the journey ever since.

PILGRIMAGE RITUALS:
THE GRAND MOSQUE, MOUNT ARAFAT AND THE ZAMZAM WELL

Before the start of Hajj, pilgrims bathe, don special clothing and make a statement of intent at the entry station. The first ritual of Hajj is performed inside the Grand Mosque complex: pilgrims circle the Kaaba structure seven times, counterclockwise, reciting prayers (tawaf). Following tawaf, many drink from the Zamzam well. Next, Muslim pilgrims walk rapidly between the hills of Sara and Marwa seven times, as Hagar did (al-Sai). Another statement of intent is made, after which the faithful travel through Mina, and on to the plains of Mount Arafat.

Intense prayer for forgiveness is offered at Arafat, as Muhammad said, “Far more people are freed from the Hellfire on the Day of Arafat than on any other day.” This portion of the Hajj journey is one of the most important. Small stones are gathered, and the following day, pilgrims perform a symbolic “stoning of the devil” at Mina (rami).

Eid al-Adha: Animal sacrifices are performed as Muslims the world over celebrate Eid al-Adha. Male pilgrims on Hajj customarily shave their heads, and all Hajj pilgrims return to Mecca cross Sara and Marwa, perform additional symbolic stonings and circulate the Kaaba one final time, to do a farewell tawaf.

Eid al-Adha: Muslims honor Abraham’s sacrifice during ‘Greater Eid’

September 24, 2015 by Leave a Comment

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24: Crowds spill out of mosques, into open fields and in parks around the world, as Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha, the “Greater Eid.” In commemoration of the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, for God, Eid al-Adha honors both Ibrahim’s devotion and the miracle that took place on the sacrificial altar. The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca draws to a close, and Muslims across the globe gather with family and friends. (View photos from last year’s Eid, here.) In the morning, Eid prayers are offered in congregation.

FEAST OF THE SACRIFICE

Two religious holidays are observed by all Muslims each year: Eid al-Fitr, ending the fasting month of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha.

Eid al-Adha commemorates Ibrahim’s submission to God’s command and God’s intervention.  According to Muslim tradition, when Ibrahim lowered his arm to slaughter his son, the Archangel Gabriel placed a ram on the altar in place of Ishmael. In commemoration, Muslims sacrifice an animal on Eid al-Adha, keeping one-third of the share; giving one-third to relatives and neighbors; and donating the remaining one-third to the poor.

Did you know? An animal sacrificed for Eid al-Adha must meet specific age and quality standards—or else it is considered an unacceptable sacrifice.

On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims dress in their finest clothing and offer prayers in congregation. Following prayers, adherents exchange joyous greetings and give gifts (Eidi) to children. Visits are made, and even non-Muslims are invited to take part in the feasts and festivities.

NEWS: NEW YORK SCHOOLS CLOSE FOR EID, CAMEL SACRIFICES BANNED

Last March, the New York Times reported on the decision of New York Mayor Bill de Blasio to close public schools on the two major Muslim holidays: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr fell during the summer—at the close of Ramadan—and students of New York will experience their first public school holiday for Eid al-Adha this year. In Saudi Arabia, the sacrifice of camels has been banned for 2015, in light of recent MERS virus scares associated with the animal. In addition, no camels are permitted into the holy sites of Mecca and Medina in the weeks surrounding Hajj 2015.

Eid al-Adha: Muslims recall Ibrahim’s sacrifice in communal joy

October 04, 2014 by Leave a Comment

SUNSET SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4: As the Hajj continues for 3 million pilgrims in Mecca, Muslims worldwide express joyful appreciation for Ibrahim (Abraham) and his complete willingness to make a sacrifice. Today is Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice. (Dates and spellings vary.) Officially, Eid al-Adha begins after the descent of Mount Arafat by the pilgrims on Hajj in Mecca.

Sometimes called the Greater Eid (the Lesser Eid, Eid ul-Fitr, occurs at the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha calls able Muslims to sacrifice a halal animal. Adherents begin Eid al-Adha by dressing in their finest clothing, traveling to a mosque or field, and offering Eid prayers in congregation. (Wikipedia has details.) Following the sermon, it is Islamic custom to exchange joyful greetings, present gifts to children and visit with family and friends. The events of Eid al-Adha last between one and four days, although in some regions, festivities may carry on longer. This year, it has been announced that the United Arab Emirates financial markets will halt trading on Friday, October 3 and resume on Tuesday, October 7, in commemoration of the Eid al-Adha holidays.

The custom of slaying a halal domestic animal for Eid al-Adha is that in doing so, the meat may be divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third to be shared with friends and neighbors and another one-third for the poor. By sharing, it is ensured that even the most impoverished person may celebrate Eid. The animal sacrifice—which must meet specific age and quality requirements—may be performed anytime before sunset on the final day of Eid. Families that do not own an animal to slaughter contribute to a charity that will provide meat for the needy. Today, more than 100 million animals are slain during Eid al-Adha for this purpose.

Eid al-Adha activities for kids (plus a great party idea): Young children may not easily grasp the magnitude of Abraham’s sacrifice, but they can begin understanding the basic concepts of Hajj and Eid al-Adha with these recipe and craft ideas, from Pinterest. Feeling more motivated? Try this sheep-themed Eid party, posted at My Halal Kitchen.

Eid al-Adha: Muslims gather in congregation for Ibrahim’s greatest sacrifice

October 14, 2013 by Leave a Comment

SUNSET MONDAY, OCTOBER 14: Eid Mubarak! Eid Saeed!

Tonight begins the joyful holiday of Eid al-Adha for 1 billion Muslims—and tomorrow morning, followers of Islam will arise early, don their best clothing and travel to an open space, offering special Eid prayers in congregation. Muslims on Hajj will observe the holiday in Mecca. Visits with friends and family, feasting, gift exchanges and sacrificial offerings to aid the poor are most common during the Eid holidays, although today’s Muslims also embark on extended vacations and 24-hour Eid shopping bonanzas.

IBRAHIM’S ULTIMATE SACRIFICE

Eid al-Adha—the Feast of Sacrifice, or Greater Eid—begins days in advance, as devotees make preparations for the anticipated holiday. Alternative names for Eid al-Adha vary by region: in Spain, for example, it is known as Fiesta del Cordero, or “festival of the lamb,” in honor of the many sheep sacrificed during this time. To commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, to God—and the divine intervention that turned Abraham’s sacrifice into a slaughtered ram—Muslims worldwide sacrifice approximately 100 million sheep, cows, goats, buffaloes and camels annually. (Wikipedia has details.) Traditionally, one-third of a sacrificed animal’s meat is kept by the contributor; another one-third is offered to relatives, friends and neighbors; and the remaining one-third is donated to the poor, so that even the poor can partake in the joyous Eid holiday. Because most Muslims  cannot slaughter an animal themselves, money is prepaid to a charity that will sacrifice an animal and distribute the meat on their behalf.

EID CONGREGATION, GIFTS AND FEASTING

On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, devotees rise before dawn to wash, dress in their finest clothing and offer Salat al-Fajr (pre-sunrise prayer). En masse, all those who are healthy and able then travel to a nearby open space—often a mosque or other designated area, sometimes a field—to offer Eid prayers, which must be offered in congregation. Following Eid prayers, Muslims exchange joyful greetings of “Eid Mubarak!” and “Eid Saeed!” Visits are paid, children receive gifts and even non-Muslims are invited to Eid brunches and parties, so that everyone can enjoy the festivities of Eid. (This year, it’s estimated that Eid al-Adha will commence in the UK and Europe on Oct. 15 and 16.) In the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha lasts four days.

IN THE NEWS:
SHOPPING IN DUBAI;
VACATIONS IN THE UAE

In Dubai, Eid al-Adha also is associated with the phrase: Shop ‘til you drop! For the second year, major malls in Dubai will be open for 24-hour shopping during the first two days of Eid al-Adha. (Read more in The National.) Because of this special marketing last year, Dubai experienced an influx of tourists; concerts, international plays, fireworks and elaborate dinners make up just some of the goings-on. (Gulf News has more.)

With several days off of work for the Eid holiday, many Muslims choose to spend time on a vacation in the UAE—and there is no shortage of packages offered by various tourist destinations. (Details are at Abawaba.com. Or, The National reported.) Along with the recent opening of the UAE’s first Waldorf Astoria, cruises, buffets, activities, beach stays and more entice families and individuals alike.