Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia

History and Significance

Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the two major Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet 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.

Traditions

During Eid al-Adha, Muslims in Saudi Arabia perform specific religious rites, including:

• Prayer: The day begins with special prayers (Salat al-Eid) typically held in large congregations at mosques or open areas.
• Sacrifice: Following the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim, a ritual animal sacrifice is performed. Families who can afford it slaughter a sheep, goat, cow, or camel.
• Charity: The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and relatives, and one-third for those in need.
• Hajj Pilgrimage: Eid al-Adha occurs at the end of Hajj, an annual pilgrimage to Mecca which is obligatory for all financially and physically capable Muslims to perform at least once in their lifetime.

Activities on Eid Day

People in Saudi Arabia engage in various activities during Eid al-Adha:

• Dressing Up: Individuals wear new clothes and visit family and friends.
• Greeting Each Other: Exchanging greetings such as "Eid Mubarak" is common.
• Feasting: Families come together to share meals featuring dishes made from the sacrificed animal.
• Giving Gifts: It's customary to give gifts to children and exchange presents among families.

The celebration typically lasts for several days during which government offices and businesses are closed so that everyone can participate fully in the festivities.