Sacrifice Feast Holiday in Turkey

History and Significance

The Sacrifice Feast, known as Kurban Bayramı in Turkey, is one of the most important Islamic holidays. It coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.

Traditions

During the four-day festival, Muslims who can afford it sacrifice an animal - usually a sheep, goat, cow or camel - as a symbol of Ibrahim's sacrifice. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one part is for the family, another part is given to relatives, friends, and neighbors, and the third part is donated to those in need.

• Preparation: Families purchase their sacrificial animal and care for it leading up to the holiday.
• Prayer: The first day starts with morning prayers at mosques or open spaces.
• Sacrifice: After prayer, animals are sacrificed in a humane way. Licensed butchers or heads of families usually perform this ritual.
• Sharing Meat: Meat distribution follows Islamic guidelines, reinforcing social ties and providing charity.
• Visiting: People dress in their finest clothes and visit family members and friends.

Activities

• Traditional games and activities for children.
• Special meals are prepared with the meat from the sacrifices.
• People exchange gifts and sweets.

The Sacrifice Feast also emphasizes community spirit, charity towards the less fortunate, and social gatherings. It is both a time of reflection on spiritual devotion and a period for strengthening bonds within families and communities.