Sunan of Eid al-Adha: The Sacred Traditions of the Islamic Festival
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant religious celebrations in Islam. Celebrated annually by Muslims worldwide, this festival marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to God’s command. Eid al-Adha is a time of joy, reflection, and gratitude, but it also comes with a series of sacred traditions (Sunan) that help deepen the connection to faith, foster community bonds, and maintain the Islamic way of life. This article will explore the various Sunan associated with Eid al-Adha and their spiritual, social, and practical significance in the lives of Muslims.
1. Performing the Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is one of the fundamental acts of worship on Eid al-Adha. It is considered a highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) practice for Muslims to perform the prayer in congregation. This prayer, distinct from the regular daily prayers, is performed in a specific manner. It consists of two Rak’ahs (units of prayer), and it is often held in large open areas such as mosques’ courtyards or designated prayer grounds, accommodating large gatherings of people.
The prayer begins with the takbir (saying “Allahu Akbar” – “God is the Greatest”) and includes additional takbirs between each of the Rak’ahs. The recitation in the first Rak’ah is followed by a series of extra Takbirs, and in the second Rak’ah, there is a similar sequence before the concluding Taslim (greeting of peace). The prayer is meant to express gratitude to Allah and ask for His mercy, and it emphasizes the communal aspect of the celebration.
2. Offering the Sacrifice (Qurbani)
One of the most distinctive features of Eid al-Adha is the act of sacrifice. This Sunna is based on the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience. However, before the sacrifice could take place, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram. In commemoration of this event, Muslims worldwide perform the Qurbani, which involves the sacrifice of an animal—usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel.
The sacrifice is performed after the Eid prayer, and it must be carried out by a Muslim who has reached the age of maturity and possesses the financial means to afford it. The meat is typically divided into three parts: one-third is given to the needy, one-third is shared with relatives and friends, and one-third is kept by the family making the sacrifice. This act embodies the principles of generosity, charity, and sharing with the less fortunate, ensuring that the less privileged have an opportunity to partake in the festive meal.
3. Fasting on the Day Before Eid (Arafah)
While fasting on the day of Eid al-Adha itself is prohibited, the day before Eid, known as the Day of Arafah, holds great significance. It is the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and the day when pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat for one of the most important rites of the pilgrimage. For Muslims who are not performing Hajj, fasting on this day is considered highly recommended (Sunnah).
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year” (Sahih Muslim). Therefore, fasting on Arafah is an opportunity for spiritual purification, self-reflection, and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
4. Paying Zakat al-Fitr
Although Zakat al-Fitr is traditionally associated with Eid al-Fitr (the end of Ramadan), its importance during Eid al-Adha should not be overlooked. The payment of Zakat al-Fitr serves as an obligatory act of charity for all Muslims who are financially able, ensuring that those in need can also partake in the celebrations of Eid.
Zakat al-Fitr must be given before the Eid prayer, and it is typically paid in the form of food or its equivalent monetary value. The amount is calculated based on the cost of staple foods, such as dates, barley, or wheat, and it is usually a modest sum. The intention behind this practice is to purify the fasting person’s wealth and to ensure that the poor are not left out of the festivities.
5. Wearing Fine Clothes and Perfume
On the day of Eid al-Adha, it is a Sunnah for Muslims to wear their best clothes. This tradition symbolizes the respect for the sacredness of the day and the joy of the occasion. The act of adorning oneself with clean, new, or fine clothing helps enhance the festive atmosphere and reflects the significance of the day in a Muslim’s life. Additionally, applying perfume or fragrant oils is another recommended practice for both men and women, enhancing the feeling of celebration and purity.
6. Greeting Each Other with “Eid Mubarak”
The exchange of greetings is an important social tradition during Eid al-Adha. After the Eid prayer, Muslims greet each other with the words “Eid Mubarak,” which means “Blessed Eid.” This greeting is an expression of goodwill, joy, and peace. It is a Sunnah to shake hands and offer warm wishes to fellow Muslims, fostering a sense of unity, brotherhood, and solidarity among the community. It is also a moment to forgive and forget any grievances or tensions, promoting an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation.
7. Visiting Relatives and Neighbors
Visiting relatives and neighbors is another key tradition that takes place during Eid al-Adha. The act of visiting is not only a Sunnah but also a means of strengthening family ties and community bonds. Muslims are encouraged to spend time with their families, ensuring that the elderly and children are included in the celebrations. Sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and offering hospitality are all common practices, reflecting the spirit of generosity that is central to the Eid celebrations.
It is also encouraged to visit neighbors, particularly those who may not have close family, to ensure they too are included in the communal joy of Eid. These visits emphasize the importance of kindness, empathy, and maintaining strong relationships with both family and community.
8. Reciting Takbir (Saying “Allahu Akbar”)
The recitation of Takbir, which means “God is the Greatest,” is one of the most recognizable practices associated with Eid al-Adha. Takbirs are recited during the days leading up to Eid and throughout the day of Eid itself. The Takbirs begin after the Fajr prayer on the day of Arafah and continue until the end of the third day of Eid, known as the Day of Tashriq.
This practice reminds Muslims of the greatness and majesty of Allah and helps to focus their minds on the spiritual significance of the festival. Takbir is often heard across neighborhoods, mosques, and communities as Muslims come together to celebrate and affirm their faith.
9. Offering Special Eid Meals
Eid al-Adha is a time for feasting and enjoying meals with loved ones. Muslims prepare special dishes for the occasion, with meat from the sacrificed animal playing a central role. Families often cook dishes that include lamb, beef, or goat, depending on the type of animal sacrificed. These meals are shared with friends, family, and the less fortunate, in keeping with the spirit of generosity and sharing that defines the festival.
The communal aspect of eating together during Eid fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood. It is a time for celebrating the blessings of Allah, giving thanks for what one has, and sharing the bounty with others.
10. Seeking Forgiveness and Making Du’a (Supplication)
Eid al-Adha is a time for spiritual reflection and seeking forgiveness. Muslims believe that during this period, Allah is particularly merciful and receptive to prayers. The day of Eid is an opportunity to make Du’a (supplication), asking Allah for forgiveness for past sins, guidance in the future, and blessings for oneself and others.
Making Du’a is an essential part of the Eid celebrations, as Muslims are encouraged to spend time reflecting on their relationship with Allah, their deeds, and their aspirations. This practice fosters humility, gratitude, and a renewed sense of devotion.
Conclusion
The Sunan of Eid al-Adha are an essential part of the festival’s spiritual and social dimensions. These practices, which range from the Eid prayer to the sacrificial offering, reflect the deep religious significance of the day and its connection to Islamic values of charity, unity, and gratitude. By observing these Sunan, Muslims reaffirm their commitment to Allah, strengthen their ties to their community, and experience the joy and blessings of Eid. As such, Eid al-Adha remains a time for both spiritual growth and communal celebration, a day where faith, family, and generosity take center stage.