Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant religious festivals in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims honor the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) in fulfilling God’s command. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) was willing to sacrifice his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (Ishmael), but God intervened and directed him to sacrifice a lamb instead.
Muslims around the world celebrate this special event as “Eid al-Adha”. It is a day when they show their devotion by making sacrifices. This year, in Pakistan Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on Thursday, June 29.
Here is a step-by-step guide to celebrating Eid al-Adha in a safe and joyous manner:
1. Performing the Special Eid Prayer
On the day of Eid al-Adha, a special congregational prayer known as “Eid Namaz” is held in mosques before the Friday prayer. Muslims greet each other by saying “Eid Mubarak” and “Eid Saeed,” expressing their joy and invoking the remembrance of God’s blessings.
2. Emphasizing the Sacrificial Act
The key ritual of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This is basically the following of Prophet Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) example and his willingness to offer a sacrifice for God’s sake.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three equal parts: one for personal consumption, one for relatives and neighbors, and one for the less fortunate in the community. This distribution allows all Muslims to partake in a meal featuring meat.
3. Indulging in Traditional Delights
Sheer Khurma, a delectable milk and vermicelli-based dessert, is a popular sweet dish enjoyed during Eid al-Adha. Both men, women, and children don new clothes on this festive occasion, creating an atmosphere of happiness and excitement.
Exchanging Warm Wishes and Visiting Loved Ones
Pakistanis cherish the tradition of inviting friends and family members for meals and spending time together on Eid. People exchange gifts and tokens of affection, deepening the bonds of kinship and friendship.
Maintain Safety Precautions
Eid al-Adha is a joyous occasion that brings Muslims together to celebrate and commemorate the spirit of sacrifice. However, it is also crucial to prioritize our health and safety during this festive time. Therefore, we strongly recommend following the following precautionary measures:
- When attending the Eid prayers, remember to wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently and avoid forgetting your prayer mat while heading to the mosque.
- It is important to wear masks during the sacrificial process and maintain distance from the animals. Individuals performing the sacrifice should wear gloves and ensure the cleanliness of all tools and utensils involved. It is advisable for the person performing the sacrifice to refrain from unnecessary contact with others.
- Even during the distribution of sacrificial meat, wearing masks and maintaining distance from others is essential. Placing the meat in clean containers and using gloves is recommended. Cooking and consuming meat in a hygienic manner is also crucial.
Conclusion
Celebrating Eid al-Adha in Pakistan is not a challenging task; however, it requires careful planning and precautions. This guide aims to provide you with valuable insights to ensure a pleasant and safe celebration.
By engaging in acts of sacrifice, sharing blessings with others, and fostering unity within the community, the true spirit of Eid al-Adha can be embraced.
Also, we know that Eid al-Adha is a time for celebration and joy, but it is our duty to prioritize our well-being and the well-being of others. Therefore, we urge everyone to adhere to these precautionary measures.
Let us celebrate this auspicious occasion with gratitude, kindness, and adherence to safety measures, ensuring a memorable and meaningful Eid for all.
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