Central African RepublicWe'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-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the two most important Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide, including in the Central African Republic (CAR), where Islam is practiced by a significant minority of the population.
Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God before God provided him with a ram to sacrifice instead. This event is recognized in all Abrahamic religions, including Islam. The celebration occurs on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, which all Muslims are encouraged to perform at least once in their lifetime if able.
On Eid al-Adha, Muslims in CAR, as elsewhere, start their day with a special prayer called Salat al-Eid. This prayer is typically performed in congregation and often takes place in larger open spaces or mosques to accommodate increased numbers of worshippers.
Sacrificial Ritual: Following prayers, those who can afford it participate in Qurbani – the act of sacrificing an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow or camel. The practice signifies devotion to God and serves as a reminder of Ibrahim's obedience.
Sharing Meat: The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbors, and one-third for the poor and needy. This distribution emphasizes charity and community spirit.
Festive Meals: Families gather for festive meals throughout Eid al-Adha. Traditional dishes are prepared using some portion of the sacrificial meat.
Clothing: It is customary for people to wear new or their best clothes during Eid celebrations.
Social Aspect: In addition to religious rituals, Eid al-Adha serves as an occasion for social gathering. People visit relatives and friends to exchange greetings and gifts.
In CAR's diverse society where various ethnic groups coexist along with Christians and Animists, public observance of Islamic holidays like Eid al-Adha reflects cultural pluralism despite historical periods of conflict. It provides an opportunity for interfaith solidarity and peace-building efforts within communities.