Eid ul-Adha
What is Eid ul-Adha?
Eid ul-Adha, known as the ‘Festival of Sacrifice,’ is a significant celebration in the Muslim calendar. This festival commemorates the readiness of the prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. In the traditions of Christianity and Judaism, Ibrahim is referred to as Abraham.
When is Eid ul-Adha in 2026?
Eid al-Adha in 2026 will be observed from the evening of Tuesday, May 26th, until the evening of Wednesday, May 27th.
How is Eid ul-Adha celebrated?
In various countries, Muslims perform the ritual of sacrificing a sheep or goat, while in Britain, the animal is processed at a slaughterhouse. The meat from this sacrifice is distributed equally among family, friends and those in need.
Eid typically begins with Muslims attending prayers at the Mosque, where they wear their finest clothing and express gratitude to Allah for their blessings. This festive occasion is also a time for visiting loved ones and many Muslims contribute to charity to ensure that the less fortunate can take part in the celebrations as well.
Hajj
Eid-ul-Adha occurs alongside the Hajj pilgrimage, deepening its spiritual significance for Muslims. This period serves as a meaningful time for reflection and fostering togetherness.
Muslims observe Eid ul-Adha on the final day of the Hajj, which is an annual pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia and represents the Fifth Pillar of Islam, making it a significant event. Every Muslim who is physically and financially able is encouraged to undertake this journey at least once in their lifetime. During the Hajj, pilgrims engage in various acts of worship, deepening their faith and sense of purpose. They gather in front of the Ka’bah, a sacred structure built by Ibrahim to collectively praise Allah.
Ka’bah
The Ka’bah is the central symbol of Islam. During the pilgrimage, known as Hajj, worshippers circle the Ka’bah seven times, with many attempting to touch the Black Stone at one of its corners