AfghanistanWe're here to help you keep count of the days to or since a date. Just click the button below and enter your chosen date to get started. Also choose the suggested days or search for a special day above #countingthedays
Eid al-Qurban, also known as Eid al-Adha or the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide, including in Afghanistan. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command before God provided a ram as an alternative offering.
The history of Eid al-Qurban dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim and is shared by all Abrahamic religions. In Islam, it coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
On this day, Muslims in Afghanistan start with an early morning prayer called Salat al-Eid. Men typically attend mosques or open fields for congregational prayers, while women may also participate or pray at home.
Following prayers, those who can afford it perform Qurbani, sacrificing a permissible animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The act symbolizes devotion to God and willingness to give up worldly goods for spiritual gain. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy.
Afghan families dress in their finest clothes and visit relatives and neighbors. They exchange greetings by saying "Eid Mubarak" or "Eid Qurban Mubarak" (Blessed Eid) and share meals together. Special dishes like Kabuli pulao, various kebabs, and sweets are prepared.
Children often receive new clothes or small gifts called Eidi from elders as part of the celebrations. It's also common for people to give money to charity during this period as an act of kindness and solidarity with those less fortunate.