Eid al-Adha, also referred to by various names such as Bakra Eid, Bakrid, Eid Qurban, and the Feast of Sacrifice, is a pivotal religious celebration for Muslims across the globe. This event honors the readiness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as a demonstration of his obedience to God.
Observing Eid al-Adha in the Month of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH
This celebration occurs on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, subsequent to the conclusion of Hajj, the yearly pilgrimage to the sacred city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It holds deep religious significance and is celebrated through various rituals and acts of worship.
Eid al-Adha serves as a moment for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation, reminding Muslims of the vital importance of faith, devotion, and submission to God’s wishes. Furthermore, it cultivates a spirit of unity and inclusiveness, as individuals from various backgrounds gather to rejoice in this significant occasion. Beyond strengthening familial and community ties, it promotes principles of charity and kindness, which are fundamental tenets of Islam.
This occasion is filled with joy and gratitude for Muslims around the world, as families unite and communities come together to observe the festival. People typically don their best attire, often new, and participate in congregational prayers held at mosques or designated prayer areas.
The sermon delivered during Eid al-Adha prayers highlights the importance of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion toward others. A central aspect of the celebration is the practice of qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, which may be a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This act symbolizes Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to make a significant sacrifice and reflects the principles of selflessness and devotion to God.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed into three portions: one for the family, the second for relatives and friends, and the third for those less fortunate. Sharing the meat with those in need is a crucial element of Eid al-Adha, fostering a sense of compassion, generosity, and community solidarity.
<pIn tribute to Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering dedication to Allah, Eid al-Adha is celebrated worldwide during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It is the second major Islamic festival observed by Muslims following Eid al-Fitr.
The commencement of Dhul Hijjah marks the Hajj pilgrimage undertaken in Mecca, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, culminating in Eid al-Adha on the tenth day. Hajj is obligatory for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to complete it at least once in their lifetime.
Crescent Moon Sighting Date and Time for Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH
This year, Muslims in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and other Islamic nations, as well as those in the UK, USA, France, and Canada, will look for the crescent moon signifying Eid al-Adha on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, which corresponds to the 29th of Dhul Qaadah 1446 AH. Should the moon be sighted on May 27, Dhul Hijjah will begin on May 28, 2025, making Eid al-Adha celebrated on the 10th of the month, June 6, 2025. Correspondingly, Arafat Day, or Youmul Hajj, will occur on June 5, 2025.
If the moon is not sighted on May 27, the following day will be considered the 30th of Dhul Qaadah, leading to the start of Dhul Hijjah on May 29, 2025. In this case, Eid al-Adha will then take place on June 7, 2025, with Youmul Hajj on June 6, 2025.
On the contrary, Muslims in countries like India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, Hong Kong, and Brunei will observe the crescent moon on May 28. If sighted, Eid al-Adha will be celebrated in these countries on June 7, 2025; otherwise, it will fall on June 8.
Eid al-Adha also serves as an opportunity for Muslims to solidify their friendships and family ties. It is a time when greetings are exchanged, visits are made, and festive meals are shared. Traditional delicacies and desserts are prepared, with popular items including sheer khurma (a sweet vermicelli pudding) and seviyan (sweet vermicelli).
In addition to its religious and social significance, Eid al-Adha teaches profound moral and ethical lessons. It reminds followers of the values of sacrifice, obedience, gratitude, and care for others. The festival encourages charitable actions, prompting Muslims to support those in need, reinforcing community bonds, empathy, and the spirit of sharing.