What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant celebrations in Muslim culture. It honours the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah.

The festival marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam that all Muslims who are physically and financially able must undertake at least once in their lifetime. Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhul al-Hijjah and lasts for three days.

The Qurbani, or sacrifice, during Eid al-Adha is a profound act of worship that holds great significance. When Ibrahim was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son Isma’il as a test of faith, he complied. However, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed in place of his son.

What is the significance of the Qurbani (sacrifice) during Eid al-Adha?

The significance of Qurbani is multifaceted. It represents a Muslim's willingness to give up something dear in obedience to Allah's command. This sacrifice symbolises submission to Allah and is a means to attain Taqwa, or piety.

For those who are financially able, Qurbani is considered a religious obligation during Eid al-Adha.

How do you celebrate Eid al-Adha?

Our Eid day begins with special prayers at a significant open space or mosque. We dress in our finest clothes to express gratitude for Allah’s blessings. After the Eid prayers, we perform the Qurbani, which is the ritual sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep, goat, or cow.

We exchange gifts and cards, decorate our houses, and design mehndi (henna) on our hands and feet. We enjoy delicious food together. Traditional foods prepared and enjoyed with family, relatives, and friends include Biryani, a flavourful rice dish with vegetables, meat (usually mutton), spices, and aromatic herbs, often served alongside stews and curries. Another favourite is Roti (made with rice flour) with meat curry, Korma, a dish made by braising meat with cream or yoghurt, water, stock, and spices to produce a thick sauce, typically served with rice, and Zarda Pulao, a sweet rice dish flavoured with saffron and pistachios. Desserts like Semai and pudding, made with milk, egg, and sugar, are also enjoyed.

What does Eid al-Adha mean to you?

Eid al-Adha is a time of joy and festivity as we gather with family and friends, share meals, and participate in communal prayers. It’s a celebration of faith and gratitude for the blessings received from Allah and the opportunity to share with others, especially during the Qurbani, which is central to the festival’s practice. This festival strengthens our sense of community and unity as we come together to pray and celebrate, regardless of diverse backgrounds. It enhances our bonds of brotherhood.

Can you share a memorable Eid al-Adha celebration from your past?

I have many memories, but one of the most special was last July in 2023 when I celebrated Eid al-Adha in Newcastle. My maternal aunt, uncle, cousin, and their children all gathered at our elder cousin's house. He and his wife had decorated their home beautifully and arranged many traditional, delicious foods. We enjoyed all the items, had chit-chats, and played various games with the children. Finally, we took many family pictures together. It was one of the most memorable Eid’s in my life.