Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world. It commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command. In Saudi Arabia, Eid Al Adha is a public holiday and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor.
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When is Eid Al Adha 2024 in Saudi Arabia?
According to the Islamic calendar, Eid Al Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. The date of Eid Al Adha varies each year on the Gregorian calendar, as the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle. In 2024, Eid Al Adha is expected to fall on:
- Friday, July 19, 2024
Preparations for Eid Al Adha
In Saudi Arabia, preparations for Eid Al Adha begin weeks in advance. Muslims around the country start making preparations for the holiday, which includes:
- Sacrificing animals: Muslims are required to sacrifice an animal, usually a sheep or goat, as a symbol of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrificed animal is then distributed among the poor and needy.
- Cleaning and decorating homes: Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers, balloons, and other decorations to welcome the Eid celebrations.
- Cooking traditional dishes: Traditional Saudi dishes such as kabsa, machboos, and gormeh are prepared for the occasion.
- Buying new clothes: Many Muslims buy new clothes and gifts for their loved ones to wear on Eid day.
Eid Al Adha Traditions
On Eid Al Adha day, Muslims gather with their families and friends to perform the following rituals:
- Salah: Muslims perform a special prayer, known as Eid prayer, in congregation at mosques and prayer halls.
- Sacrificing animals: Muslims sacrifice animals at designated areas, known as Eid grounds, and distribute the meat among the poor and needy.
- Visiting family and friends: Muslims visit their loved ones, exchange gifts, and share meals together.
- Eid celebrations: Eid celebrations include traditional music, dance, and other forms of entertainment.
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People May Ask
Q: What is the significance of Eid Al Adha?
A: Eid Al Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God’s command.
Q: Why do Muslims sacrifice animals on Eid Al Adha?
A: Muslims sacrifice animals as a symbol of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed among the poor and needy.
Q: What are the traditions associated with Eid Al Adha?
A: Muslims perform a special prayer, sacrifice animals, visit family and friends, and exchange gifts.
Q: Is Eid Al Adha a public holiday in Saudi Arabia?
A: Yes, Eid Al Adha is a public holiday in Saudi Arabia and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor.
Conclusion
Eid Al Adha is a significant Islamic holiday that is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in Saudi Arabia. The holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God’s command.
Muslims around the world, including in Saudi Arabia, prepare for the holiday by sacrificing animals, cleaning and decorating their homes, cooking traditional dishes, and buying new clothes.
The holiday is a time for Muslims to come together with their families and friends, perform special prayers, and exchange gifts.
