The Feast of the Sacrifice: On the Origins and Traditions Behind Eid Al-Adha
Known as el Eid el Kebeer (the big feast or the greater feast), Eid Al-Adha is perhaps one of the most important religious festivals in the Islamic world. It marks the end of hajj, the sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation undertaken by those who are physically and financially able. Hajj is actually one of the five pillars of Islam and an important right of passage for Muslims all over the world.
The origins of Eid Al-Adha can be traced back to the story of the prophet Ibrahim and the vision he received from God; he was told he must sacrifice his son, Ismail. However, moments before sacrificing his son, Ibrahim was given a lamb to slaughter instead.
The ritual sacrifice continues until today as one of the central traditions and practices of Eid Al-Adha, and any family that is financially able will typically slaughter a sheep or goat, or a cow if they can afford it, and distribute the meat to those in need.
After the wa’fa, a sacred day of fasting that precedes the Eid celebrations, the feast begins in earnest, starting with the Eid prayer, an important congregational practice that is obligatory for all who are able.
Following the Eid prayers is the ritual of the sacrifice, which can take place any time after the prayers up until the fourth day, with strict criteria as to how the animals are slaughtered, their age and their health.
But the feast is about much more than just sacrifice, and a big part of the holiday involves celebrating with friends, family and neighbours; the streets become filled with music and laughter as people dress up in their finest clothes and come together to enjoy one of the most important and beloved festivals of the year.
The streets of Egypt are a spectacular sight during Eid, with some beautiful traditions taking place. Children will often get a new set of clothes just for the occasion, which will of course be showed off in front of friends and family. The eideya is another lovely tradition and something many look forward to all year round; older family members give small amounts of cash to the younger members of the family as a gift, money they will happily use to buy sweets or toys. Many Egyptians also travel during Eid, either to return home to their families or to take their family on a much needed vacation along one of the country’s gorgeous coasts.
And of course, last but certainly not least, is the food. As with all celebrations around the Middle East, food plays a central role and is definitely one of the things we all look forward to, and meat plays a big part in Eid meals. From spicy fried liver to the traditional and ever-present Fattah, a feast would be nothing without a generous table full of food and surrounded by loved ones.
Eid Mubarak to all!