ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā (عيد الاضحى)
Definition and Names
ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā (Arabic عيد الاضحى) translates to “The Feast of Sacrifice.” Vulgarly known as ʿĪd-i-Ẓuḥā in some cultures, this significant Islamic festival is also referred to as:
- Yaumu ’n-Naḥr
- Qurbān-ʿĪd
- Baqarah-ʿĪd (“the cow festival”)
- In Turkey and Egypt, it is known as ʿĪd-u Bairām.
It is often termed ʿĪdu ’l-Kabīr (the Great Festival) to distinguish it from ʿĪdu ’l-Fiṭr, the Minor Festival.
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: عيد الاضحى (ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā)
- Turkish: Kurban Bayramı
Significance in Islam
ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhū ’l-Ḥijjah and marks the culmination of the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). It commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Abraham (Ibrāhīm) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command, and God’s subsequent provision of a ram to sacrifice instead.
It’s a time of both religious observance and festivity, observed worldwide by Muslims as a day of sacrifice.
Qur’anic Foundations
The festival is based on divine injunctions found in the Qur’an, specifically in Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 33–38. In essence, it promotes the values of humility, charity, and pleasing God through pious actions.
Historical Roots
Post the Hijrah (migration to al-Madinah), Muhammad observed and engaged in Jewish rituals but later established unique Islamic practices, including the ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā, to minister to broader religious needs. The animal sacrifices, a significant part of pre-Islamic Arabian pilgrimage traditions, were incorporated into the new festive order.
Rituals and Celebrations
Pre-Festival Preparations
Participants ensure they have unblemished animals for sacrifice — typically goats, sheep, cows, or camels. Financial capability considering slaves, household goods, tools, and clothes often dictates participation.
Day of Sacrifice Activities
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Prayer Session: The day begins with communal prayers at the ʿĪdgāh.
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The Khuṭbah: An oration follows the prayers, often addressing themes of piety, charity, and the significance of sacrifice.
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Sacrifice: The head of the family sacrifices the animal, reciting,
"In the name of the great God. Verily, my prayers, my sacrifice, my life, my death, belong to God, the Lord of the worlds. He has no partner: that is what I am bidden: for I am first of those who are Mūslim [resigned]." -
Distribution of Meat: The animal’s meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy.
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Celebration: The following days are filled with visiting friends and family, feasting, and various festivities.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Understanding Islam” by Frithjof Schuon
- “Islam: A Short History” by Karen Armstrong
- “The Hajj: Pilgrimage in Islam” by F.E. Peters
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem”
Takeaways and Conclusion
ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā stands as a profound symbol of faith, sacrifice, and piety in Islam. It’s a testament to the unity and solidarity within the Muslim community worldwide, unified by acts of worship, charity, and celebration. Through rituals rooted in historical and scriptural traditions, the festival nurtures community spirit and individual piety.
In essence, ʿĪdu ’l-Aḍḥā encapsulates the core Islamic values of devotion to God, compassion towards others, and the importance of community.
