July will see the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha, one of the major events in the Muslim Calendar. However, for non-Muslims you may not now know much about this event and why it is so important. Here is Shaz from the Answer Cancer team to explain a bit more:
“The day of Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated by the Muslims across the world. The day that celebrations fall on is dependent on a legitimate sighting of the moon, following the completion of the annual Holy Pilgrimage of Hajj – which is an obligation for all Muslim’s who fit specific criteria, one of the important Five Pillars of Islam.
The celebration of Eid-ul-Adha is to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God (Allah SWT) and his readiness to sacrifice his son, Ismail. At the very point of sacrifice, God (Allah SWT) replaced Ismail with a ram, which was to be slaughtered in place of his son. This command from God (Allah SWT) was a test of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness and commitment to obey his Lord’s command, without question. Therefore, Eid-ul-Adha means the festival of sacrifice.
Depending on the country, the celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha can last anywhere between two and four days. The act of Qurbani (sacrifice of a sheep, lamb, goat, cow, bull or a camel) is carried out following the Eid Salaah (Eid Prayers), which are performed in congregation at the nearest Mosque on the morning of Eid.
Traditionally, the day is spent celebrating with family, friends and loved ones, often wearing new or best attire and the giving of gifts.”