Id-Ul-Zuha- Eid Mubarak

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'Indeed We bestowed aforetime on Abraham his (portion of) guidance, and We were Well Acquainted with him( as to his Belief in the Oneness of Allah)'

It is celebration time again. As the Muslims world over enjoy the festivities and joy of Id-ul-Azha, its also the day to bow before Almighty and thank Him for good fortune and to be able to share it with the less fortunate.

'The feast of sacrifice', known as Id-ul-Azha or Id-ul-Zuha in Arabic and popularly known as Bakr-Id in India is marked by animal slaughter as sacrificial offerings and distributing the meat among the deprived and poor.

The origin and concept of the festival is narrated in an incident in the Old Testament, describing the symbol of sacrifice.

Origin

According to the historical background of incidence, Allah commanded Hazrat Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (PBUH) on the Mount Mina, Mecca. Almighty wanted to see the prophet's willingness to sacrifice his only son, thus testing his faith and not the slaughter of human flesh and blood.

To be able to perform the assigned task, the prophet blindfolded himself and carried out to sacrifice his beloved son in order to obey the Lord. But when he took off the blindfold, he was over joyed and shocked to see a slaughtered lamb instead of his little boy, who stood nearby unharmed and smiling.

This symbolic incidence gives the message to man that all that the Almighty requires of him is his total submission to His will and faith. To commemorate the generous act of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), this day is celebrated with animal sacrifice world over and the meat is distributed among the poor and needy. This is also the day of great importance, as the Holy Qur'an was declared complete today.

Celebration Rituals

Bake Eid is celebrated from the 10th to the 12th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Every year the pilgrims to the Mount Mina in Mecca perform animal sacrifice and the same is done by the Muslims around the world.

A Muslim individual who owns wealth equal to 400 grams of gold or can afford two squares of meals per day, is expected capable of sacrificing an animal. During any of the three days of the festival a four-legged domestic animal, like goat, sheep or camel is sacrificed and the meat is divided into three portions. One for the self, another for friends and neighbor and third to the poor. The sacrifice can be carried out at anytime until the afternoon of the third day.

The first day of the festival is marked by people wearing new clothes and offering prayers in the mosque. Community prayers are offered on all the three days with active participation of all the Muslims. Friends and relatives are greeted and festive celebration are carried out. The act of giving, sharing and charity are highlights of the season.