Eid Ul Adha 2023: Bakrid, also known as Bakra Eid or Eid ul Adha, holds immense religious importance for Muslims worldwide. This sacred festival, known as Eid-ul-Adha or Eidul Zuha in Arabic, marks the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. On this day, Muslims demonstrate their reverence for Allah through a symbolic act of sacrifice.
The origins of Bakrid can be traced back to the story of Prophet Ibrahim. According to tradition, Allah appeared in Ibrahim's dream and instructed him to build the Kaaba, the most sacred shrine in Mecca. Moreover, Allah challenged Ibrahim to sacrifice what he held dearest as a test of loyalty.
Despite the sorrow it caused him, Ibrahim resolved to fulfill Allah's wish and decided to sacrifice his son, Ismail. Taking his son to the top of Mount Arafah, Ibrahim prepared the sacrificial altar. Along the way, he faced taunts and temptations from Satan, urging him to disobey Allah and spare his beloved son. However, Ibrahim remained steadfast, repelling Satan by throwing stones at him.
Upon reaching the altar, Ibrahim bound his son and prepared to sacrifice him. With his son's eyes covered, Ibrahim aimed to shield himself from weakness in fulfilling Allah's command by avoiding eye contact. At the crucial moment, Allah intervened, replacing Ismail with a ram, proclaiming Ibrahim's successful passing of the test and expressing satisfaction with his devotion and obedience.
Since that significant event, Bakrid has been observed sacrificing an animal, commonly a sheep, goat, or camel, depending on availability. This festival occurs on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and lasts for two to four days.
Bakrid 2023 Date:
This year, the Bakrid festival will commence on the evening of June 28 and continue until June 30.
Bakrid Celebrations:
In remembrance of Ibrahim's story, Muslims worldwide celebrate Bakrid annually. The act of animal sacrifice symbolizes obedience and submission to Allah. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one portion is given to the poor and needy, another is shared among friends and family, and the remaining part is retained for personal use by the sacrificing family.
During Bakrid or Eid ul Adha celebrations, Muslims gather with their families and meet friends to express gratitude to Allah for His blessings. The day begins with congregational prayers at the mosque or designated prayer locations. This is followed by the sacrifice of an animal and the distribution of meat to family, friends, and the less fortunate. Families dress in their finest attire, prepare delectable dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and sweets, and share them with loved ones, neighbors, and those in need. This period prompts Muslims to reflect on the significance of sacrifice in their lives.
According to Muslim teachings, this occasion encourages individuals to sacrifice their wealth, time, and resources to receive Allah's blessings, particularly by extending help to those in need. The festival of Bakrid serves as a reminder of the values of faith, humility, and selflessness, which are integral to Islamic beliefs.