Feast of the Sacrifice Holiday in Azerbaijan (Qurban Bayramı)

The Feast of the Sacrifice, also known as Qurban Bayramı, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated in Azerbaijan. It corresponds to Eid al-Adha in the Arabic world and is observed after the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

History and Significance:

• The holiday commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command. However, before he could carry out the act, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
• It marks the end of Hajj and is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Traditions:

• Qurban Bayramı involves sacrificing an animal — usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel — as a symbol of Ibrahim's sacrifice. The practice underscores themes of obedience, devotion, and sharing with those less fortunate.
• A portion of the meat from the sacrificed animal is given to poor and needy people. The rest is shared among family members and neighbors.
• People dress in their finest clothes, attend prayers at mosques early in the morning, and visit cemeteries to pay respects to deceased family members.

Activities on this Day:

• Families gather for festive meals.
• Gifts are exchanged; children often receive money or new clothes.
• It's common for people to visit friends and relatives as a way to strengthen social bonds during this time.

The Feast of Sacrifice is a public holiday in Azerbaijan with government offices, schools, and many businesses closed. It provides an opportunity for reflection on spiritual matters as well as promoting charity and community cohesion.