Eid Al Adha 2023 | Eid ul Adha 2023

With only a few days remaining, ‘Eid al Adha 2023’ also known as the ‘Eid of Sacrifice’ that comes with many virtues and rewards is just around the corner. While the animals like goats, Ram, Sheep, Cows, Buffalo, and Camel are sold and bought in many parts of the world, the ‘Eid Al Adha’   comes with a unique message to the Ummah. Here are the 5 essential things to know about ‘Eid al Adha’  

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT EID AL ADHA:

 

Here are some  important facts about Eid al-Adha:

•  Muslims celebrate Eid Al Adha to commemorate the sacrifice of Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) by his father Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.) on the commandment of Allah (S.W.T.). It was a significant test from Allah, as He often tests believers, especially prophets. Allah commanded Ibrahim in a dream to sacrifice his only son, and although it was a difficult test, Ibrahim obeyed without question. However, just as Ibrahim was about to sacrifice Ismail, Allah commanded Jibrail (A.S.) to replace Ismail with a ram from paradise, and the ram was sacrificed instead.
• Eid al-Adha marks the end of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina made by Muslims. Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, takes place during the final lunar month of the Islamic calendar, known as Dhul Hijjah. After the completion of the Hajj, Muslims celebrate Eid Al Adha.
• Muslims must sacrifice the animal within a specific time frame, from the 10th to the 13th day of Dhul Hijjah.
• Eid al-Adha is not only a ritual but also carries a message for humanity to be willing to sacrifice their most beloved possessions in the path of Allah when needed. The meat from the sacrificed animal is shared among the poor, friends, neighbors, relatives, and households. The distribution of the meat follows the 1/3 (one-third) rule.

 

That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor.

Al Qur’an (ch22, v28) 

The ‘Eid Al Adha’   is celebrated on the 10^th of ‘Dhul Hijja’, which according to the modern calendar will fall on the ^29th of June 2023.

 

Importance of Eid Al Adha Prayers?

‘Eid Al Adha’   prayer is a two Rak’at prayer and an obligatory prayer too. There is no Adhan (special call to Prayer) for ‘Eid Al Adha’.

Narrated Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said, “Whoever slaughtered the sacrifice before the prayer, he just slaughtered it for himself, and whoever slaughtered it after the prayer, he slaughtered it at the right time and followed the tradition of the Muslims.”

(Sahih Al Bukhari, 68/454)

How to perform Eid Al Adha 2023 Prayers?

In order to perform Salat ‘Eid Al Adha’ properly, it is important to follow the prescribed method. Here is a step-by-step guide for performing Salat ‘Eid Al Adha 2023’:

 

First Rak’at of Eid al Adha prayers:

• Before starting the prayer, make the intention (Niyat) to perform Salat ‘Eid Al Adha’ by saying, “I intend to perform Salat ‘Eid Al Adha’ with 6 additional Takbeers while facing the Qibla behind this Imam.”
•  The Imam will begin the prayer by saying “Allahu Akbar” and raising both hands up to the ear lobes. Follow the Imam and raise your hands as well. This is the first Takbeer.
•  After the first Takbeer, the Imam will recite “Sana” (Subhanaka Allahumma…). Listen to the Imam and follow along.
•  The Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” again, and this time, lower the hands completely instead of joining them together. Follow the Imam’s actions.
•  Repeat step 4 for the third Takbeer as well.
• When the Imam says “Allahu Akbar” for the fourth time, join your hands together and the Imam will recite Surah Fatiha along with another Surah from the Qur’an. Listen attentively.
• After the recitation, the Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” for the fifth time, and you should follow along. Then, go into the Ruku position.
• Perform the required Sajdas (prostrations) similar to other prayers.
• This completes the first Rak’at along with three additional Takbeers.

Second Rak’at of Eid Al Adha prayers:

After completing the Sajdas of the first Rak’at, the Imam will get up for the second Rak’at, saying “Allahu Akbar.” Follow the Imam and say the same.

•  In the second Rak’at, the Imam will recite Surah Fatiha again, followed by a short Surah from the Qur’an. Listen to the recitation.
•  The Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” for the sixth time, and you should follow along by raising and then lowering your hands freely.
•  Repeat step 12 for the seventh Takbeer as well.
•  When the Imam says “Allahu Akbar” for the eighth time, raise and then lower your hands freely.
•  Follow the Imam when he says “Allahu Akbar” for the ninth time and immediately go into the Ruku position.
•  Perform the required Sajdas (prostrations) as in the daily prayers.
•  Finally, conclude the prayer with two Salams (saying Assalamu Alaikum).

After the prayer of ‘Eid Al Adha’ is completed, the Imam will deliver a Khutba (sermon), and it is obligatory to listen to it. Once the Khutba is finished, people may leave the prayer area and return to their homes from the Eid Gah (the designated place for the ‘Eid prayer).

Origin of Eid Ul Adha

Eid Al-Adha also known as Eid Ul Adha or feast of sacrifices finds its roots in Islamic history and the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). Eid ul-Adha holds great meaning that goes back for millennia. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim faithfully worshipped Allah. To demonstrate his unwavering faith and obedience, Allah tested him. By Allah’s command in a dream, Ibrahim was instructed to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (Ishmael).

Sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim AS

Ismail shared Ibrahim’s dream, driven by his devotion. Both Ibrahim and Ismail agreed to fulfill the command due to their immense faith and submission to Allah’s will. As they were getting ready for the sacrifice, Satan tried to persuade them otherwise, yet they resisted Satan’s temptations and stayed resolute. Right when Ibrahim AS was ready to carry out the sacrifice, Allah interfered and swapped Ismail with a ram. This act of divine intervention underlined Allah’s acceptance of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. This proves that true devotion comes from following Allah’s commandments.

Surah As-Saffat (Chapter 37, Verses 102-107) in the Quran, which is considered a holy book by Muslims, recounts Ibrahim’s sacrifice. This story exemplifies unwavering faith, submission, and the significance of sacrificing for Allah.

فَلَمَّا بَلَغَ مَعَهُ ٱلسَّعْىَ قَالَ يَـٰبُنَىَّ إِنِّىٓ أَرَىٰ فِى ٱلْمَنَامِ أَنِّىٓ أَذْبَحُكَ فَٱنظُرْ مَاذَا تَرَىٰ ۚ قَالَ يَـٰٓأَبَتِ ٱفْعَلْ مَا تُؤْمَرُ ۖ سَتَجِدُنِىٓ إِن شَآءَ ٱللَّهُ مِنَ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ ١٠٢ فَلَمَّآ أَسْلَمَا وَتَلَّهُۥ لِلْجَبِينِ ١٠٣ وَنَـٰدَيْنَـٰهُ أَن يَـٰٓإِبْرَٰهِيمُ ١٠٤ قَدْ صَدَّقْتَ ٱلرُّءْيَآ ۚ إِنَّا كَذَٰلِكَ نَجْزِى ٱلْمُحْسِنِينَ ١٠٥ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَهُوَ ٱلْبَلَـٰٓؤُا۟ ٱلْمُبِينُ ١٠٦ وَفَدَيْنَـٰهُ بِذِبْحٍ عَظِيمٍۢ ١٠٧

To honor this crucial event, Muslims worldwide observe Eid ul-Adha on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Various religious and festive activities characterize this three-day celebration. Eid ul-Adha reminds Muslims of the importance of sacrifice, devotion, and submission to Allah’s will. It also underscores the value of sharing one’s blessings and expressing thanks. The significant practice during Eid ul-Adha involves sacrificing an animal called Qurbani. It depicts the determination of Muslims to offer sacrifices in service of Allah and distribute blessings to others.

Slaughter during Eid al-Adha 2023

To commemorate the tale of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael), in submission to Allah, Muslims worldwide perform a notable ritual known as slaughter during Eid al-Adha, also referred to as Qurbani or Udhiyah. It holds great importance to observe this ritual with reverence. During Eid al-Adha, sacrificing holds great religious and symbolic significance.

 

The task of slaughtering is undertaken by an expert individual, commonly a butcher or someone with proficiency in following Islamic teachings for making sacrifices. The slaughter must be performed with compassion, care, and in adherence to Islamic principles to ensure that the animal is handled humanely and treated respectfully.

Islamic guidelines for the slaughter of animals the following key aspects:

Qurbani/Sacrifice rules:

Since Qurbani/sacrifice is the most beloved act by ALLAH (S.W.T.), and when the event is ‘Eid Al Adha’ , the reward gets multiplied. Thus, the proper Qurbani/Sacrifice rules must be followed without any mistakes to get all the rewards.

Here are the rules that must be followed before, in between, and after the sacrifice of the animal:

To ensure that the act of Qurbani or sacrifice is carried out properly and in accordance with Allah’s commandments, it is important to follow certain rules and guidelines. Here are the rules to be followed before, during, and after the sacrifice:

Acts to do before Qurbani on Eid Al Adha 2023:

• Have a sincere intention to perform the sacrifice solely for the sake of Allah and in accordance with His commandments. Recognize Allah’s blessings and remember His name during the act.
• Ensure that the animal chosen for Qurbani is healthy and of suitable age. Sheep/goats should be up to one year old, while cows/buffaloes should be up to two years old. Camels should not be below 5 years of age.
• The animal should be free from any sickness or injury. They should be given good and nutritious food until the day of sacrifice.
• Perform the two Rak’at Eid Prayers before slaughtering the animal.
• According to the majority of scholars, once the moon of Dhul Hijja is sighted, it is recommended to refrain from cutting one’s hair, nails, or trimming the beard for those who have a share in the sacrifice.

What to do while slaughtering an animal on Eid Al Adha 2023?

•  Use a sharp knife for the slaughter to minimize pain and suffering for the animal. Dull knives should not be used as they can increase the animal’s pain.
• Ensure that the animal is facing the Qibla (direction of prayer) during the slaughter.
• Avoid sharpening knives in front of the animals and do not slaughter animals in front of each other to prevent distress.
• While slaughtering, the person performing the act should recite “Bismillah’ir-Rahman’ir-Rahim” (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).
• The animal’s neck should not be completely separated, and the skinning should not be done until the animal becomes cold and motionless.

Acts to do after slaughtering an animal on Eid Al Adha 2023

• The meat of the sacrificed animal should be distributed equally (1/3) among relatives, friends, and the needy (Misqin). Following the Sahih Hadith, the meat should be shared among the poor, friends, neighbors, relatives, and within the household according to the 1/3 (one-third) rule.
• The skin of the sacrificed animal can be donated to a nearby mosque or the head of a Madrasah for appropriate utilization.

By following these rules and guidelines, one can ensure that the act of Qurbani is performed in accordance with the teachings of Islam and maximize the rewards from Allah.

We should acknowledge that the sacrifice of animals during Eid al-Adha is not executed with the aim of cruelty or harm. Instead of that purposeful act serves as a symbol representing devotion, gratitude, and willingness to make sacrifices in the path followed by Allah. Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith is closely tied to the act of slaughter in its deep-rooted story. It highlights the significance of following and being obedient to Allah’s commandments.

In general, the slaughtering ritual during Eid al-Adha is a reverent and important tradition that carries religious, cultural, and symbolic significance for Muslims. It serves as a reminder of the devotion and preparedness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice. It also underscores the significance of compassion, sharing, and looking after the less fortunate members of the community.

What is Dhu al-Hijjah/Zil Hajj? What is its importance?

Dhu al-Hijjah, also known as Zil Hajj, concludes the Islamic lunar calendar. Its association with multiple important religious events and acts of worship makes it highly significant in Islam. Zil Hajj holds importance for the following key reasons.

Hajj Pilgrimage:

In Zil Hajj, the annual Hajj pilgrimage happens. Hajj holds a significant place among the five pillars of Islam. Performing it at least once in their lifetime is mandatory for Muslims who are physically and financially able. The Hajj pilgrimage signifies unity, humility, and complete submission to Allah through a profound spiritual journey. It acknowledges the actions of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family while emphasizing sacrifice, devotion, and seeking proximity to Allah.

Eid al-Adha:

Eid al-Adha is a celebration that honors Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah by being willing to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael). The festival underscores the significance of sacrifice, gratitude, and compassion. Muslims across the world join together to conduct the Qurbani (animal sacrifice) ceremony and distribute the meat among their relatives, friends, and individuals who require assistance. A time like this calls for celebration, unity among the community members, and performing charitable deeds.

Days of Virtue:

The ‘Days of Virtue’ or ‘The Best Days of the Year’ are highly regarded and carry immense blessings during the first ten days of Zil Hajj. A recommendation is made for Muslims to take part in acts of worship including prayers, fasting, recitation of the Quran, remembrance of Allah, and seeking forgiveness. The belief is that good deeds performed during these days hold significant rewards and blessings from Allah

Standing at Arafah:

The Day of Arafah observed on the 9th day of Zil Hajj in Islam, is regarded as extremely important. Gathering at the plain of Arafah, people seek forgiveness and mercy from Allah on this day. Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) farewell sermon was given at the plain of Arafah, where pilgrims performing Hajj gather. During this day, individuals offer heartfelt prayers, express regret sincerely, and ask for forgiveness from Allah. The standing at Arafah is considered highly spiritually significant. It is generally understood that Allah absolves the offenses of those who sincerely seek His benevolence on this day.

Commemoration of Sacrifice and Devotion:

The occasion of Zil Hajj allows Muslims to ponder over the narrative of Prophet Ibrahim and his steadfast trust in Allah’s decrees. Zil Hajj allows Muslims to contemplate the account of Prophet Ibrahim and his steadfast trust in Allah’s decrees. By sacrificing his beloved son, he showed sacrifice, devotion, and complete submission to Allah. During Eid al-Adha, Muslims celebrate and remember this act by performing the Qurbani. They also perform acts of sacrifice and devotion in their personal lives.

Finally, Zil Hajj’s association with important events like the Hajj pilgrimage, Eid al-Adha celebrations, and observing virtuous days underscores its immense importance in Islam. It is a month that provides chances for spiritual development, contemplation, and worship. The core values and principles of their faith remind Muslims.

What is Hajj?

Culminating in several important rituals and events, the last few days of the pilgrimage signify the conclusion of the annual Hajj. A sacred journey to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, known as the Hajj, is one of the fundamental practices of Islam. Muslims endeavor to complete it at least once in their lifetime. The concluding days of the Hajj are dedicated to significant acts of worship and contemplation. There is a summary of the main events that conclude the yearly Hajj.

The Steps Of Hajj

1. Enter state of Ihram
2. Tawaf x7
3. Safa and Marwa
4. Clip/Shave Hair (Umrah ends)
5. Resting and Praying
6. Enter state of Ihram
7. Arrive at Mina
8. Day of ‘Arafah
9. Muzdalifah (under the night sky)
10. Rami (stoning of the devil)
11. Hady
12. Shaving of the Head
13. Tawaf al-Ifadha
14. Saai’
15. Rami (stoning of the devil)
16. Spend night at Mina
17. Rami (stoning of the devil)
18. Farewell Tawaf al-Wida

The annual Hajj’s culmination is an experience that spiritually enriches Muslims worldwide. The Muslim ummah’s unity is exemplified as millions of individuals from different backgrounds gather in Mecca to fulfill their religious obligations. They also pursue closeness with Allah.

Some hadees or ayahs related to zil hajj and Eid ul Adha

Here are a few Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) and verses from the Quran related to Zil Hajj and Eid ul-Adha:

Hadith on the Virtue of the First Ten Days of Zil Hajj:

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days (of Zil Hajj).” The companions asked, “Not even jihad in the cause of Allah?” The Prophet replied, “Not even jihad, except for a person who goes out with his life and wealth and does not return with either.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Verse on the Pilgrimage (Hajj):

“And proclaim to the people the Hajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.” (Quran 22:27)

Hadith on the Importance of the Day of Arafah:

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The best day on which the sun has risen is the Day of Arafah. On this day, Allah freed Adam (peace be upon him) from the torment of his mistake.” (Sunan Tirmidhi)

Verse on the Significance of Sacrifice:

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.” (Quran 22:37)

Verse on Remembrance of Allah during the Days of Hajj:

“That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor..” (Quran 22:28)

These Hadiths and verses highlight the virtues of Zil Hajj, the significance of the Hajj pilgrimage, the importance of the Day of Arafah, and the symbolic act of sacrifice during Eid ul-Adha. They serve as a reminder of the blessings, rewards, and spiritual significance associated with these occasions in Islam.

Categorization of Qurbani on Eid Al Adha 2023

The categorization of Qurbani depends on the animal being sacrificed. Take note of these general guidelines for categorizing Qurbani:

• Counting as one Qurbani, offering a sheep or goat is acceptable. This indicates that an individual or a household can complete their Qurbani obligation by sacrificing one sheep or goat.
• Offering a cow for Qurbani is Considered seven Qurbanis. This indicates that one cow’s meat can be shared among seven groups, meeting the Qurbani requirement for seven individuals or households. Each individual share denotes one Qurbani.

Wrapping up

In essence, Eid al-Adha, commonly called the Festival of Sacrifice, is highly meaningful in Islam. It honors the tale of Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to offer his son as a sign of obedience to Allah. The rites and traditions connected to Eid al-Adha, such as the Qurbani or Udhiyah, represent devotion, sacrifice, and gratitude. Across the globe, Muslims join hands to mark this fortunate event, highlighting the values of solidarity, empathy, and magnanimity. Eid al-Adha reminds us of the significance of faith, surrendering to Allah’s will, and helping those in need. At this time we experience joy, celebration, and thoughtful reflection on the significant teachings inspired by Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith. Let’s welcome Eid Al Adha 2023 with pure intention, and devotion to Allah and celebrate it according to the teachings of Islam.