On Saturday, 7 June 2025, Muslim communities across South Africa and elsewhere in the world will celebrate Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice.” This sacred occasion, falling on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah (the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar), is more than just a festival; it is a deeply spiritual event commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s ultimate act of devotion and submission to God. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and sharing, centred around the deeply symbolic act of Qurbani.
According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was commanded by Allah in a dream to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (Ishmael). As he prepared to fulfil this command, demonstrating his unwavering faith, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This monumental test of faith is the foundation of Eid al-Adha. As described by Muslim Aid, “This command from Allah SWT was a test of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness and commitment to obey his Lord’s command, without question.” The festival, therefore, reverberates with the themes of surrender and devotion.
SMread: Day of Arafat: Mercy, Divine Forgiveness Awaits
The Virtues and Practice of Sacrifice
The central observance of Eid al-Adha is the act of Udhiya or Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal. This act is considered wajib (obligatory) for every adult Muslim of sound mind who possesses wealth exceeding their basic needs. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed such strict adherence to this practice that he never omitted it, highlighting its immense importance. A Hadith (prophetic narration) warns those with the means who neglect it: “He who has the means and does not perform Qurbani, he should not approach our musallah (place of performing Eid Salaah).”
The spiritual rewards associated with this act are immense. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said that on the day of Eid, no action is more beloved to Allah than the shedding of the animal’s blood. A Hadith states, “The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Judgment with its horns, hair, and hooves (to be weighed). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood falls on the ground.” Another narration highlights that the person performing the sacrifice is rewarded for every single hair or fibre of wool on the animal.
This act is not merely a ritual but a profound personal and emotional experience. It is a reaffirmation of a Muslim’s pledge to Allah, symbolising the slaughter of one’s own ego and base desires, such as “rebellion, hatred, jealousy, pride, and greed.” The act of Qurbani is a powerful lesson in choosing faith over emotion and loyalty to God above all else.
The meat from the sacrificed animal—typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel—is traditionally divided into three parts. One-third is for one’s own family, one-third is shared with friends and neighbours, and the final third is donated to the poor and needy. This distribution ensures that the spirit of generosity and community upliftment is at the heart of the celebration, allowing everyone, regardless of their financial standing, to partake in the joyous meal of Eid.
SMread: Calls to Protect Nasser Hospital Amid Gaza Genocide
A Time for Community and Compassion
Eid al-Adha begins with a congregational prayer (Eid Salaah) on the morning of the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Families dress in their best clothes, visit loved ones, and exchange gifts. The days of sacrifice extend until sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
Ultimately, the festival serves as a powerful annual reminder of what it means to live a life of submission to God. It is a celebration of faith, a lesson in sacrifice, and a testament to the power of compassion. As South African Muslims prepare for this blessed day, the spirit of Qurbani calls on them to look beyond themselves, strengthen community bonds, and share their blessings with those less fortunate, embodying the timeless virtues of Prophet Ibrahim’s profound legacy.
Image credit: Shutterstock
