Eid al-Adha in Ghana

Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide, including in Ghana where Muslims make up a substantial part of the population.

History and Significance: Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, before God provided him with a ram to sacrifice instead. This event is honored by the act of Qurbani, meaning sacrifice. Every year during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, Muslims around the world observe this event which also coincides with the culmination of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

Traditions in Ghana: In Ghana, Eid al-Adha is both a religious and a social occasion. The day begins with Muslims gathering for early morning prayers at mosques or designated prayer grounds. Dressed in their finest clothing, they perform Salah (prayer), which is followed by a sermon from an Imam.

After prayers:

• Families and friends exchange visits.
• Special meals are prepared; families who can afford it perform Qurbani by slaughtering sheep, goats or cows.
• The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third shared with friends and relatives, and one-third donated to those less fortunate.

Activities on Eid al-Adha: On this day:

• Homes are often cleaned and decorated.
• People extend generosity to others by giving charity (Zakat al-Fitr) and sharing food.
• Children receive gifts or money.

In summary, Eid al-Adha in Ghana reflects a blend of solemn religious observance and communal festivity that emphasizes sharing with others, demonstrating piety and fostering social bonds within communities.