Eid ul Adha
What is Eid ul Adha? Meaning, History, Significance & Islamic Practices
Introduction: What is Eid ul Adha?
Eid ul Adha (عيد الأضحى), also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals. It marks the culmination of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, and commemorates the timeless story of Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) and his son Isma’il (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام).
According to the Qur’an, Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) saw a divine dream commanding him to sacrifice his son. Out of unwavering faith and obedience to Allah, he prepared to carry out the command. However, Allah Almighty, in His infinite mercy, replaced his son with a ram, symbolizing the acceptance of his sacrifice.
This story represents submission, devotion, and complete trust in Allah’s will, which remains the foundation of Eid ul Adha.
Eid ul Adha in the Qur’an
The Qur’an highlights the concept of sacrifice in multiple verses:
“And for every nation We have appointed a sacrifice; that they should mention the name of Allah over the mute animals which He has provided them.”
(Surah Al-Hajj, Ayah 34)
“So eat from it yourself and feed the one who patiently awaits and the beggar.”
(Surah Al-Hajj, Ayah 36)
“So you should offer Salah for your Lord, and sacrifice.”
(Surah Al-Kawthar, Ayah 2)
These verses affirm the universal and timeless practice of Qurbani (sacrifice) across different nations and religions.
Eid ul Adha vs Eid ul Fitr
While both festivals are highly important in Islam, their meanings differ:
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Eid ul Fitr: Celebrates the completion of Ramadan and fasting.
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Eid ul Adha: Marks the completion of Hajj and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) act of sacrifice.
Story of Eid ul Adha: Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) & Isma’il (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام)
On the 8th, 9th, and 10th nights of Zul-Hijjah, Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) repeatedly dreamt that Allah commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son.
When he shared this with Isma’il (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام), his son responded with absolute submission:
“O my father! Do what you are commanded to do; Allah willing, you will find me patient.”
(Surah As-Saffat, Ayah 102)
This act of obedience from both father and son became the essence of Eid ul Adha, symbolizing ultimate faith and devotion.
Significance of Qurbani (Sacrifice)
The sacrifice of an animal—sheep, goat, cow, or camel—is central to Eid ul Adha. It represents:
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Submission to Allah’s will – fulfilling the Sunnah of Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام).
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Charity and sharing – the meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor.
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Spiritual cleansing – reinforcing that wealth and possessions are temporary, while devotion to Allah is eternal.
Rules of Qurbani in Islam
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Who must perform Qurbani?
Every Muslim who is sane, mature (Baaligh), resident (not a traveler), and possesses Nisab wealth must perform Qurbani between the 10th and 12th of Zul-Hijjah. -
Is Qurbani wajib on travelers?
No, Qurbani is not obligatory on a Shar’i traveler. -
Best day to perform Qurbani?
The first day (10th Zul-Hijjah) holds the greatest virtue, although it can be performed on any of the three days. -
Distribution of meat:
The meat should ideally be divided into three equal portions—for family, relatives, and the poor.
Preparations & Practices of Eid ul Adha
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Eid Prayer: Muslims gather for a special Salah and Khutbah (sermon).
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Sacrifice (Qurbani): Performed after the prayer.
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Acts of Sunnah: Wearing new or clean clothes, applying fragrance, and exchanging greetings of “Eid Mubarak.”
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Charity and Sharing: A vital part of the celebration, ensuring the poor also enjoy the festival.
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Hajj Connection: For pilgrims, Eid ul Adha coincides with the completion of their sacred rituals.
Hadith on Eid ul Adha Sacrifice
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of Qurbani:
“The one who can afford to perform the Qurbani but does not do it should not come near our Eid prayer ground.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3123)
This Hadith highlights the obligation and virtue of sacrifice for those who are financially capable.
Eid ul Adha Celebrations Worldwide
Across the Muslim world, Eid ul Adha is celebrated with:
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Family gatherings
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Distribution of sacrificial meat
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Community feasts
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Acts of charity
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Prayers for unity and peace
From Makkah to Malaysia, Pakistan to Palestine, Muslims come together to honor the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) and celebrate this sacred festival.
Conclusion
Eid ul Adha is not merely a festival—it is a reminder of faith, sacrifice, and obedience to Allah. It connects Muslims to the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام), Prophet Isma’il (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام), and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Through Qurbani, prayer, and charity, Muslims reaffirm their devotion to Allah, strengthen community bonds, and support the needy.
Indeed, Eid ul Adha is a festival of faith, sacrifice, and unity that continues to inspire Muslims around the globe.
FAQs About Eid ul Adha
1. What is Eid ul Adha in simple words?
Eid ul Adha is the Islamic festival of sacrifice, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
2. Why do Muslims sacrifice animals on Eid ul Adha?
The sacrifice honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام) devotion and serves as an act of charity, with meat shared among family, friends, and the poor.
3. When is Eid ul Adha celebrated?
Eid ul Adha is celebrated on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
4. What is the difference between Eid ul Adha and Eid ul Fitr?
Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and fasting, while Eid ul Adha marks the end of Hajj and commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (عَـلَيْـهِ الـسَّـلَام).
5. Is Qurbani wajib (obligatory) for everyone?
Qurbani is wajib for every Muslim who is mature, sane, resident, and possesses Nisab wealth. It is not obligatory for travelers or those without financial means.
