Eid ul Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice and Its Significance

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant occasions in Islam. It falls on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and commemorates the obedience and faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in submission to Allah’s command. The occasion centres on faith, sacrifice and charity.

The story behind Eid-ul-Adha

According to Islamic teachings, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) received a divine instruction to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) as an act of obedience. As he was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, showing that the sincerity of the intention mattered more than the act itself. The story is understood as a test of faith and devotion.

When is Eid-ul-Adha?

Eid-ul-Adha falls on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah each year. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the corresponding Gregorian date shifts from year to year and is confirmed closer to the date based on moon sighting.

The importance of Qurbani

One of the central observances of Eid-ul-Adha is Qurbani — the sacrifice of an animal by those who are able to, in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice. The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the household, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need. For more on animal eligibility and timing requirements, see An Islamic Act of Sacrifice.

Spiritual and social significance

Eid-ul-Adha is also a time of increased devotion — many Muslims perform extra prayers, recite the Quran, and observe the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah) with fasting. The festival also emphasises charity and community: by sharing Qurbani meat with those in need, Muslims express generosity and care for the wider community. It is equally a time for family — gathering for prayers, sharing meals, and strengthening relationships.

Eid-ul-Adha and Hajj

Eid-ul-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. Pilgrims in Makkah observe rituals including standing at Arafah and performing Tawaf. Muslims who are not on pilgrimage mark the occasion through Qurbani and worship.

Traditions around the world

Eid-ul-Adha is observed with distinct local customs across the Muslim world. In the Middle East, families gather for communal prayers and large feasts. Across South Asia, Qurbani preparations begin days in advance, with meat widely shared among relatives, neighbours and those in need. In parts of Africa, communities mark the occasion with family gatherings, communal prayers and food distribution. Muslim communities in Western countries observe Eid prayers, charity drives and festive meals while maintaining these same traditions.

Across all these customs, Eid-ul-Adha remains centred on the same themes: faith, sacrifice, and caring for those in need.