Celebrating Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice and Faith

Today, many colleagues, ship and shore, will begin their Eid al-Adha celebrations.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals, often celebrated over four days, and is a time of joy, reflection, and unity. Muslims all over the world will gather to celebrate and pray, wear their best clothes, share festive meals, exchange greetings like “Eid al-Adha Mubarak” – meaning “Blessed Eid of sacrifice”, and perform acts of charity and kindness.

Why is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

Eid al-Adha coincides with the completion of the Hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) in obedience to God’s command. Ishmael was saved when God replaced him with a lamb, signifying the importance of Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and devotion.

Today, Muslims continue this tradition, called Qurbani, and sacrifice an animal to honour Ibrahim’s devotion and Allah’s mercy. The meat is then shared equally between family and friends, their neighbours and those in need, emphasising the spirit of compassion and community and reinforcing the importance of charity and helping others.

For all who celebrate, Eid al-Adha Mubarak!