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One of the most celebrated festivals of the Muslims, Id-ul-Zuha is largely observed with much dedication and joviality in India. It is a festival of sacrifice and is also known as ‘Bakr-id’ because it is basically the tradition of sacrificing a goat. Goat is known as ‘bakr’ in Urdu. It is referred to as the Id-ul-Adha in Arabic and is casually known as the Greater Id by all. The word ‘id’ comes from the Arabic word ‘iwd’ which means festival and Zuha comes from ‘uzhaiyya’ which means ‘sacrifice’. The festival is celebrated by the Muslims all over after the Hajj, which is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It annually falls on the 10th day of the Dhul Hijja month, as per the Lunar Islamic Calendar. It is the last month of the Muslim year.
Id-ul-Zuha is actually a recollection of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son at the very behest of God. According to the historical background and Islamic belief, Allah wanted to test Ibrahim’s faith and commanded him to sacrifice his son Ismail near Mecca. Ibrahim’s paternal feelings and affections came in the way of killing his son. He blindfolded himself and was just on the verge of killing his son, when he was told that his sacrifice has already been fulfilled. When he opened his eyes he saw his son safe and sound. On the altar lay a slaughtered ram. It was revealed to him that the command was mainly to test his faith in Allah.
The festival of Id-ul-Zuha is celebrated to honor Ibrahim’s test of faith to Allah. It is the spirit of sacrifice which emphasizes the true spirit and significance of the Id-ul-Zuha festival.
On Id-ul-Zuha, Muslims visits the mosques in the morning and offer their prayers to Allah. Men and women are dressed in their best attire on this occasion. Those who can afford, sacrifice animals like goat, sheep, camel or any other four legged animal. The meat of the sacrificed animal is then distributed among the poor. Sacrifices of animals are done to commemorate the act of Ibrahim.
It is also a day for feasting and people on this day prepare special food and distribute it amongst family and friends. People exchange greetings and embrace each other on this occasion. Women clad themselves in their best attire, wear jewelry and apply intricate designs of mehendi on their hands.
The celebration of Id-ul-Zuha continues for three days so that the entire muslim community can partake in the noble act of sacrificing, giving and sharing. Special prayers are offered in the mosques on all the three days.
Last Updated On: 2011/07/04
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