Eid al-Adha Day 2 in the Philippines

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two most important Islamic festivals. In the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, it is recognized as a regular holiday by virtue of Republic Act No. 9849. This legal acknowledgment allows Filipino Muslims to observe this significant day.

History and Significance: Eid al-Adha 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. The festival also marks the culmination of Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

Traditions: On Eid al-Adha, Filipino Muslims engage in several traditional practices:

• Prayer: The day typically starts with Muslims performing the Eid prayer (Salah) in congregation. This is a special prayer consisting of two Rakats and is generally performed in an open field or large hall.
• Sacrifice: Following the example set by Ibrahim, many families who can afford it sacrifice an animal such as a goat or cow. This act demonstrates their devotion and thankfulness to Allah.
• Charity: The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. This distribution underscores sharing with others and caring for those less fortunate.

What People Do: On this day in the Philippines:

• Families gather together wearing new or their best clothing.
• They visit friends and relatives to celebrate with feasts that include special dishes like beef rendang or chicken satti.
• It's common for money or gifts to be given to children.

Despite being a minority religion in the Philippines, Islam has its roots dating back centuries particularly in Mindanao where many observances take place with greater prominence due to higher population of Muslims. The public holiday allows all Filipino Muslims across the country to celebrate without conflict with work or school commitments.