Aid el-Kebir in Côte d'Ivoire

Aid el-Kebir, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide, including in Côte d'Ivoire, where Islam is one of the major religions.

Historical Background:

• The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God before God replaced his son with a ram.
• It coincides with the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which is one of the five pillars of Islam and an obligation for those who are able to perform it.

Traditions:

• Muslims start the day with a special prayer called Salat al-Eid performed in congregation, often at mosques or open spaces.
• The central tradition is the sacrificial slaughtering of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. This act reflects Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.

Activities on Aid el-Kebir:

1. Prayers: Attendees dress in their finest clothing and gather for communal prayers in mosques or designated praying grounds early in the morning.
2. Sacrifice: After prayers, those who can afford it perform Qurbani - slaughtering livestock as a sacrifice.
3. Sharing Meat: The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is given to friends and neighbors, another third is distributed to the poor and needy, and the remaining third is kept for family consumption.
4. Feasting: Families gather for meals that feature part of the sacrificed animal.
5. Charity: There's a strong emphasis on charity during this time; families provide food and money to those less fortunate so they too can celebrate.
6. Visiting: People visit relatives and friends to share greetings and gifts.

In Côte d'Ivoire specifically:

• The celebration fosters community spirit and brings together people from different social backgrounds as they share meals and festivities.
• It's marked by a national holiday allowing Muslims to fully engage in religious activities and rituals associated with Aid el-Kebir.

Throughout Côte d'Ivoire, Aid el-Kebir reinforces social bonds through shared worship and acts of generosity, embodying both religious significance and communal harmony within Ivorian society.