Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice

While Eid al-Fitr (the earlier holiday) is famous for sweets and marking the end of fasting, Eid al-Adha is known as the "Greater Eid." It is a holiday of profound historical weight, centered on the concepts of sacrifice, trust, and charity.

What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha honors the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to God's command. Before he could carry out the act, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.

This story, revered in Islam (and shared in the Judeo-Christian tradition), serves as the ultimate example of submitting one's will to the Divine. The holiday also marks the end of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that every able-bodied Muslim must undertake once in their lifetime.

When is it?

It takes place on the 10th day of the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar (Dhu al-Hijjah).

• In 2026: It is expected to begin around the evening of May 26 or May 27.

How is it Typically Celebrated?

The celebration is community-focused and deeply charitable:

1. The Qurbani (Sacrifice) To commemorate Ibrahim's story, those who can afford it participate in the Qurbani (or Udhiyah). An animal (usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) is sacrificed.

• The Rule of Thirds: The meat is traditionally divided into three equal parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and relatives, and one-third donated to the poor and needy. This ensures that even the poorest in the community can enjoy a meat feast during the holiday.

2. The Morning Prayer The day begins with a special congregational prayer at the mosque or an open ground (Eidgah). Muslims wear their finest clothes, often new for the occasion, and chant the Takbir (praises of God) on their way to prayer.

3. Family Gatherings While the first Eid is about sweets, this Eid is about savory feasts. Families gather for large meals featuring the meat from the Qurbani, such as biryani, kebabs, or roast lamb. It is a time of visiting elders and exchanging gifts.

Eid al-Adha is a reminder that true faith requires sacrifice, and that our blessings are meant to be shared with those who have less.