Eid Al Adha, also known as Qurbani Eid, is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. This festival is observed to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah’s command. However, Allah intervened and replaced Isma’il with a ram, which Ibrahim sacrificed instead.
In 2025, is expected to be celebrated on Friday, 6th of June, 2025.
When is Eid Al Adha 2025?
Eid ul Adha 2025 is expected to be celebrated on Friday, June 6, 2025. This date marks the conclusion of Hajj and commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (علیہ السلام). The exact date may vary based on moon sighting in different regions.
What is Eid al Adha / Qurbani Eid?
Eid al Adha, also known as Qurbani Eid, is a significant Islamic festival that commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim. The Arabic word “Qurbān,” which translates to “sacrifice,” is the source of the term Qurbani. This day is a representation of selflessness, submission to God’s will, and gratitude for His mercy. Muslims worldwide sacrifice an animal, such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel, and distribute the meat to family, acquaintances, and the impoverished.
A ritual of gratitude, the act of sacrificing the animal during Eid al Adha is performed to emulate Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering obedience to God.
As it is mentioned in the Glorious Quran, Qurbani (sacrifice) is a primordial form of worship that has been observed in all Ummahs for ever.
“And for every nation We have appointed a sacrifice; that they should mention the name of Allah over the mute animals which He has provided them.”(Part 17, Surah Al-Hajj, Ayah 34)
The Qurbani Eid Story
Eid ul Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is an important Islamic celebration that marks the conclusion of Hajj and stands in stark contrast to Eid ul Fitr, which celebrates the end of Ramadan and fasting. Eid ul Adha commemorates the momentous act of faith and sacrifice demonstrated by Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام) and his son Sayyiduna Isma’eel (علیہ السلام).
In the blessed month of Zul-Hijjah-til-Haraam, Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام), the beloved friend of Allah, was put to a divine test that would set an eternal example for Muslims.
On the eighth night of Zul-Hijjah, Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام) had a dream in which he was commanded to sacrifice his beloved son. The dream repeated itself on the ninth night of Zul-Hijjah, and on the tenth night, the same dream came again, confirming the command from Allah. With steadfast faith, Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام) made the resolute decision to fulfill this divine instruction, displaying his utter submission to the will of Allah. (Tafseer Kabeer, vol. 9, pp. 346)
Sayyiduna Isma’eel’s (علیہ السلام) Response:
When Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام) shared the details of the dream with his son Sayyiduna Isma’eel (علیہ السلام) and sought his opinion, Isma’eel (علیہ السلام) responded with immense faith and acceptance. In a moment of great submission, Isma’eel (علیہ السلام) told his father to follow Allah’s command, expressing his willingness to endure the sacrifice, saying:
“He said, ‘O my father! Do what you are commanded to do; Allah willing, it is soon that you will find me patient.’”
(Translation from Kanz-ul-Iman, Surah As-Saffaat, Ayah 102)
With Allah’s mercy, however, Sayyiduna Isma’eel (علیہ السلام) was spared, and instead, Allah sent a ram for sacrifice in his place. This moment marked the passing of a profound test of faith by Sayyiduna Ibrahim (علیہ السلام), demonstrating that both father and son were willing to sacrifice their dearest possessions to please Allah.
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The First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the most blessed days in the Islamic calendar. These days are revered for the opportunity to engage in extra worship, seek forgiveness, and make supplications. Muslims strive to perform acts of goodness during these ten days, including fasting, offering prayers, and seeking Allah’s mercy.
Among these ten days, the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah) holds particular significance. On this day, Muslims gather at the plain of Arafat during the annual pilgrimage (Hajj), and their prayers are accepted by Allah. The Day of Arafah is followed by Eid al Adha, which marks the culmination of the Hajj rituals.
Celebration of Eid al Adha
Eid al Adha is celebrated joyfully and reverently. On Eid, Muslims gather at mosques or designated prayer locations to recite Salat al-Eid (Eid prayer). This prayer is a key aspect of the Eid celebration, followed by the Qurbani (animal sacrifice). The day is packed with charitable actions, communal prayers, family get-togethers, and gift exchanges.
Following the Eid prayer, Muslims follow the rite of slaughtering an animal as a reflection of Prophet Ibrahim’s faithfulness to Allah. This sacrifice symbolizes spiritual purity, sharing, and care for others.
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Sunnahs of Eid al Adha and Eid Prayer
On Eid al Adha, there are several Sunnahs (traditions) to observe, which include:
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Taking a bath before the Eid prayer.
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Wearing new or best clothes.
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Avoid eating before performing the Eid prayer.
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Offering the Eid prayer in congregation at the mosque or open prayer grounds.
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Reciting Takbeer: Muslims recite “اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ ، وَاللهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْدُ “ as part of the Eid prayer and during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
- Listen To Khutba
- Going to or returning from mosque by using different rutes.
Eid Prayer
The Eid Prayer is a significant part of Eid al Adha. It consists of two units of prayer (rak’ahs), performed in congregation, and is usually followed by a sermon (khutbah). It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and devotion to Allah. The prayer is typically offered in open fields or large congregational spaces to accommodate large numbers of people. It is recommended to perform Eid prayer in a group, as it strengthens the sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims.
Sacrifice of Animal (Qurbani)
The Qurbani (animal sacrifice) is the central act of Eid al Adha. The sacrificed animal should be healthy, free of defects, and should meet the criteria outlined in the Islamic tradition. The sacrifice must be done in the name of Allah, and the animal should be slaughtered by a Muslim who understands the rules of sacrifice.
Animals commonly sacrificed include:
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Goat
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Sheep
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Cow
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Camel
The meat is then divided into three parts:
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One part for the family
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One part for friends and relatives
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One part for the poor and needy
This distribution reflects the importance of sharing with others, especially those less fortunate.
Rules of Sacrifice
The rules of Qurbani (animal sacrifice) are as follows:
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The animal must be at least 1 year old for goats , sheep at least six months of age, 2 years old for cows , ox and buffalo. Camels 5 years old.
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The sacrifice must be done after the Eid al Adha prayer, during the 3 days of Eid (10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah).
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The sacrifice should be performed by a Muslim who is able to afford it.
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It should be done in a humane and Islamically appropriate manner.
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If the animal is sacrificed on behalf of someone else, the person must give permission and the sacrifice must be for the sake of Allah.
Conclusion
Eid al Adha, or Qurbani Eid, is a time for reflection, devotion, and community. It serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and submission to Allah’s will. This blessed occasion allows Muslims to express their gratitude, share with others, and renew their bond with the divine. As you celebrate Eid al Adha 2025, remember to perform the Sunnahs, offer Eid prayers, and share the joy of sacrifice and giving with loved ones and those in need. May this Eid bring peace, happiness, and blessings to all. Eid Mubarak!
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