Eid-El-Kabir
23 March 2024
[Naija news]
Written by Shalom Umoh
Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid el-Kabir, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is a major Islamic holiday observed by Muslims worldwide. It is traditionally observed on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
It is crucial to note, however, that the actual day may vary depending on the moon's sighting, as Islamic months follow the lunar cycle. This year, it is slated to occur on June 17. It recalls Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son in service to God. However, before he could perform the sacrifice, God provided a ram instead.
Muslims observe Eid al-Adha by sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, in accordance with Prophet Ibrahim's tradition. The sacrificed animal's meat is then divided into three parts: one-third is sent to the poor and needy, one-third is shared with friends and family, and the remaining third is saved for the home.
Aside from the sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is a time for Muslims to gather with family and friends, pray, and be grateful for their blessings. It is also a time to show generosity and compassion to those who are less fortunate.
Eid-el-Kabir History
Eid el-Kabir, commonly known as Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, is profoundly rooted in Islamic history. Eid al-Kabir has its origins in the Abrahamic religions, specifically with Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
According to Islamic legend, God tested Prophet Ibrahim by asking him to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (Ishmael), in order to demonstrate obedience and loyalty. Ibrahim, displaying unshakeable faith, was ready to carry out God's command. However, before he could perform the sacrifice, God intervened and delivered a ram as a substitute sacrifice, saving Ismail's life.
Eid el-Kabir remembers this historic event, which represents the ultimate act of surrendering to God's will and the value of sacrifice in the Islamic religion. Muslims around the world commemorate Eid al-Kabir by sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, in honor of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Furthermore, Eid el-Kabir is a reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and compassion. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on Prophet Ibrahim's teachings and show thankfulness to God for His blessings on them.
The purpose of Eid el-Kabir
The major goal of Eid al-Adha is to commemorate this act of faith and obedience to God's will. Muslims around the world commemorate by sacrificing an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, to demonstrate their willingness to give up something valued in accordance with God's order.
At its center, Eid al-Adha remembers Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham)'s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in devotion to God. However, before Ibrahim could perform the sacrifice, God supplied a ram to sacrifice instead.
Furthermore, Eid al-Adha is a time for Muslims to express appreciation for their blessings and distribute their resources to those in need. The flesh from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third is distributed to the poor and needy, one-third is shared with friends and family, and the remaining third is saved for the home.
Overall, the objective of Eid al-Adha is to enhance one's faith, develop thankfulness, and promote generosity and compassion for others, all of which reflect Islam's core principles.
How it is celebrated
In Nigeria, Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid al-Kabir, is celebrated with tremendous excitement and festivities, representing the country's vast cultural and religious diversity. The festival usually starts with Muslims attending special Eid prayers at mosques or outdoor prayer grounds, where they listen to sermons, pray, and seek blessings for themselves and their families.
Following the prayers, families assemble to participate in the ritual sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, which represents Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son for the benefit of God. The flesh from the sacrificed animal is then divided into three parts: one-third is given to the poor and needy, one-third is shared with friends and family, and the remaining third is saved for family.
The difference between Eid el-Kabir and Eid al-Fitr
The basic distinction between Eid el-Kabir and Eid al-Fitr, also known as Eid Mubarak, is in their importance and traditions within the Islamic calendar.
Eid el-Kabir, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, honors Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God. Muslims all across the world celebrate by sacrificing an animal and distributing the meat to family, friends, and those in need. It focuses on sacrifice, faith, and kindness.
In contrast, Eid al-Fitr commemorates the completion of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a celebration of breaking the fast and thanking God for the strength and stamina he provided throughout the month of fasting. Muslims congregate for special prayers, exchange gifts, and eat festive foods. Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion.
Eid el-Kabir Greetings and goodwill messages
During Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid al-Kabir, Muslims share warm greetings and well wishes to express joy and fellowship. "Eid Mubarak" or "Barka da Sallah" are common greetings in Nigeria, which translates to "Blessed Eid" or "Eid Blessings." These greetings are intended to offer happiness, serenity, and blessings to family, friends, and neighbors.
People may also send kind words like "May the blessings of Eid fill your life with happiness and prosperity" or "Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Eid filled with love and togetherness." These statements capture the essence of Eid el-Kabir by emphasizing the principles of sacrifice, compassion, and community.
Furthermore, Eid al-Kabir greetings frequently include prayers for health, prosperity, and peace for the recipient and their family. Muslims may also extend invitations to others to participate in the celebrations and feast together.
Eid-al-Kabir prayers
Eid al-Kabir prayers are an essential aspect of the festival, representing appreciation and dedication among Muslims. Prayers are often held in the morning, immediately after sunrise, at mosques or outdoor prayer areas. Muslims conduct ablution, a ritual cleaning of the body, before standing in prayer.
When worshippers arrive at the prayer place, they form a unified congregation by standing shoulder-to-shoulder. The prayer is conducted by an imam, who recites Quranic passages and guides the congregation through the right actions and prayer.
The Eid prayer consists of two components (rakats) that are conducted differently than typical everyday prayers. Following the prayer, the imam delivers a sermon (khutbah) to the congregation, offering words of advice, contemplation, and support.
Muslims use the prayer to beg forgiveness for their sins, show thanks for their benefits, and pray for the well-being of their families, communities, and the whole Muslim ummah. It is a time for spiritual meditation and refreshment, establishing a sense of community and connection among worshippers.
Overall, Eid al-Kabir has significant historical and religious significance in Islam, repeating essential lessons about faith, sacrifice, and dedication that have been passed down through generations.
About Mdundo.com
Mdundo.com is Africa's leading pan-African music service, dedicated to providing music easily and legally across Africa. With a vast library of African songs, curated playlists and a focus on low internet usage, Mdundo.com is redefining the way people discover, listen to, and engage with African music. Currently, over 145,000 artists have accounts with Mdundo.com, showcasing the platform's commitment to supporting local talent and driving the music industry forward.
You Can Now Promote Your Song To Earn More Money
For those interested in Mdundo visit https://www.mdundoforartists.com/ or contact artist@mdundo.com.
Quick Links
Daily Mixes
DOWNLOAD LATEST BONGO MUSIC MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST TZ MUSIC MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST BEST SONGS 2024 MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST TOP 10 SONGS OF TODAY MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST MUSIC ALBUMS/EP MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST TOP 10 SONGS OF 2023 MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST TOP 10 SONGS OF TODAY MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST TOP 10 SONGS OF THE WEEK MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST AFRICAN MUSIC MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST GHANA MUSIC MP3
DOWNLOAD LATEST KENYA MUSIC MP3
Leave your comment