Muslim all over the world celebrates Eid al-Adha or Eid Qurban, also called the “Festival of the Sacrifice”, today.
This is the second holiest festival in the Islamic calendar, the first being Eid al Fitr.
Eid al Adha lasts approximately four days, and Muslims gather to indulge in food, say prayers and give gifts to friends and families.
Eid al Adha commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah.
Allah asked Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, as a sign of his faith.
This is similar to the Christian and Jewish stories where God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac but saved him from doing so at the last moment.
Instead of Ishmael being sacrificed, a lamb was instead, which is why many Muslims sacrifice and eat lamb for Eid.
In Ghana, Eid al-Adha is kept up by all Muslims as the most important holiday of the year. It is known as “big Eid” in contrast to Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan and is called “little Eid”.
For “big Eid”, Ghana’s Muslims will sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow, or other livestock animal. The meat is divided in thirds, one third each to be given to family, friends, and to the poor.
A special donation to the poor to help them buy new clothes and food for Eid al-Adha is also mandatory.
Muslims will gather at mosques for prayer on Eid al-Adha, then go home to feast and celebrate with family and friends.
May the divine blessings of Allah bring all Muslims hope, faith, and joy on Eid al-Adha and forever. Happy Eid al-Adha!
Compiled by Ruth Abla Adjorlolo
