Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice” or “古尔邦节” in Chinese, is one of the most significant holidays in Islam. It is a time of deep religious devotion, cultural celebration, and communal unity for Muslims around the world. Rooted in ancient stories of faith and sacrifice, this festival carries profound meanings that resonate across generations.
Origins and History
The origins of Eid al-Adha trace back to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) in the Quran. According to Islamic tradition, God (Allah) tested Ibrahim’s loyalty by commanding him to sacrifice his son Ismail. Without hesitation, Ibrahim prepared to obey, demonstrating unwavering faith. At the moment of sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, sparing the son as a reward for Ibrahim’s devotion. To commemorate this act of submission and divine mercy, Muslims established Eid al-Adha on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This day also marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Timing and Date
As the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, Eid al-Adha falls approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. The festival begins on Dhu al-Hijjah 10th and lasts for four days, coinciding with the conclusion of Hajj. For Muslims, this period is a time of spiritual reflection and communal gathering, with millions traveling to Mecca for the pilgrimage while others prepare to celebrate at home.
Celebration Rituals
The Hajj Pilgrimage
For able-bodied Muslims, performing the Hajj at least once in a lifetime is a sacred duty. During Eid al-Adha, pilgrims from across the globe converge on Mecca, dressed in simple white garments (ihram) to symbolize equality before God. They circle the Kaaba, stand in prayer at the Plain of Arafat, and cast stones at pillars representing Satan in Mina—a reenactment of Ibrahim’s resistance to temptation. This journey is a powerful demonstration of faith and unity.
The Sacrifice (Qurbani)
A central ritual of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of a healthy animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for the poor and needy. This act embodies selflessness, gratitude to God, and solidarity with those less fortunate, emphasizing the Islamic values of charity and sharing.
Congregational Prayers (Salat al-Eid)
On the morning of the festival, Muslims gather at mosques or outdoor prayer grounds for the Eid prayer. Led by an imam, the service includes recitations from the Quran, sermons about the significance of sacrifice, and prayers for peace, guidance, and blessings. After the prayer, people embrace and greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” (“Blessed Eid”), fostering a sense of community.
Family Gatherings and Feasting
Eid al-Adha is a time for families to reunite and share meals. Traditional dishes like roasted lamb, spiced rice, and sweet pastries are prepared and enjoyed together. Children receive gifts or “Eidiyah” (money), and families exchange visits, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Beyond its religious rituals, Eid al-Adha highlights core values of Islam: humility, compassion, and unity. The act of sacrifice serves as a reminder to prioritize faith over material desires and to care for the vulnerable. It also transcends cultural boundaries, uniting Muslims of diverse ethnicities and backgrounds in a shared celebration. For many, the festival reinforces their identity and commitment to living a life of devotion and generosity.
Whether in the holy city of Mecca or in communities worldwide, Eid al-Adha remains a powerful symbol of faith, tradition, and the enduring spirit of giving. It is a time when believers reflect on their relationship with the divine and reaffirm their responsibility to one another, making it a cornerstone of Islamic culture and spirituality.
