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Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide, with the other being Eid al-Fitr. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The holiday commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command before God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
The origins of Eid al-Adha trace back to the Quranic tale where Ibrahim is tested by God to sacrifice his son Isma'il. This act is seen as a demonstration of unwavering faith and submission to God's will. To honor this event, Muslims around the world perform Qurbani, which means sacrificing an animal (usually a sheep, goat, cow or camel) and distributing its meat among family, friends, and those in need.
In Saudi Arabia, Eid al-Adha is marked with great religious fervor and public festivities. The traditions include:
Takbirat: Recitation of Takbir (glorifying God) starts from Maghrib prayer on the eve of Eid and continues until before the Eid prayer in the morning.
Eid Prayer: Performed in congregation at mosques or open areas known as 'Eidgah'.
Sacrifice: After prayer, those who can afford it carry out Qurbani.
Distribution: The meat from sacrificed animals is divided into three parts: one for personal consumption, one for relatives and friends, and one for charity.
Saudi Arabians engage in various activities during this holiday:
Gathering: Families come together to celebrate; many often travel to be with loved ones.
Feasting: Traditional dishes are prepared using meat from Qurbani.
Dressing Up: It is customary to wear new or best clothes.
Charity: Giving Zakat (almsgiving), often in form of meat distribution.
Recreation: Public events including entertainment shows, fairs and cultural displays are organized throughout cities.
Additionally, since Saudi Arabia hosts Mecca—the holiest city in Islam—Eid al-Adha coincides with Hajj pilgrims' descent from Mount Arafat which is an integral part of Hajj rituals. Although this particular aspect pertains more to pilgrims than non-pilgrim residents.