Kurban Bayramy in Turkmenistan

Kurban Bayramy, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated in Turkmenistan. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, before God provided him with a ram to sacrifice instead.

History and Significance

• The origins of Kurban Bayramy are rooted in the Quranic recounting of Ibrahim's test of faith.
• It marks the end of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims are expected to make at least once in their lifetime if they are able.
• The festival falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and lasts for four days.

Traditions

• Prior to the holiday, many Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
• In Turkmenistan, preparations begin well in advance with people buying and caring for their sacrificial animals—usually sheep, goats, or cows.
• Fasting is observed on Arafat Day, which precedes Kurban Bayramy.

Celebrations and Activities

• On the morning of Kurban Bayramy, Muslims dress in their finest clothes and attend special prayers held at mosques or open areas.
• After prayers, families who can afford it will slaughter their sacrificial animal. This act symbolizes Ibrahim's sacrifice and shows their willingness to give up things that are of benefit to them or close to their hearts.
• A portion of the meat is kept for family consumption while another part is distributed to relatives, friends, and neighbors. Significantly, a third portion is given away to those less fortunate—a practice embodying charity and sharing.
• It's also customary for people to visit cemeteries during this period to pay respect to deceased family members.

Social Aspects In Turkmenistan:

• Social gatherings are common as families visit each other's homes.
• People exchange greetings such as "Eid Mubarak" or its equivalent in Turkmen language.

Cultural Impact Kurban Bayramy serves as a period for strengthening community bonds within Turkmen society by promoting acts of generosity toward others. It's an occasion marked by both solemn religious observance and festive celebration across Turkmenistan.