Bakrid: Understanding the Islamic Festival of Sacrifice
Bakrid, also known as Eid al-Adha, is one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar. It is celebrated by Muslims all over the world to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to Allah (God). This festival is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. In this article, we will delve deeper into the significance of Bakrid and how it is celebrated across different parts of the world.
The Story Behind Bakrid
The story behind Bakrid dates back to thousands of years ago when Prophet Ibrahim was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son Ismail. Initially, Ibrahim was hesitant to carry out the command, but eventually, he decided to obey Allah’s will. As he was about to sacrifice his son, Allah intervened and replaced Ismail with a ram. This act of obedience and submission to Allah is what Bakrid commemorates.
The Significance of Bakrid
Bakrid is a time for Muslims to reflect on the importance of obedience and submission to Allah. It is a reminder that one’s faith should always come before personal desires and that one should be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of Allah. The festival also emphasizes the importance of charity and sharing with others, as Muslims are encouraged to distribute meat from the sacrificed animal to the poor and needy.
Celebrating Bakrid Festival
The celebration of Bakrid varies across different parts of the world, but there are some common practices that are observed by Muslims everywhere. One of the most important rituals is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a goat or a sheep, as a symbol of Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrificed animal is then divided into three parts – one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy.
In addition to the sacrifice, Muslims also offer special prayers on the day of Bakrid. They gather in mosques or open spaces to perform the Eid prayer, which consists of two rakats (units of prayer) and a sermon. After the prayer, Muslims greet each other with hugs and exchange gifts as a sign of love and unity.
Bakrid Around the World
Bakrid is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor across different parts of the world. In India, which has one of the largest Muslim populations in the world, Bakrid is a public holiday. Muslims gather in mosques or open spaces to offer prayers and sacrifice animals. The streets are filled with the sound of drums and chants of “Allahu Akbar” (God is great) as people celebrate the festival.
In Saudi Arabia, where Islam originated, Bakrid is celebrated with a five-day holiday. The city of Mecca, which is considered the holiest city in Islam, witnesses millions of Muslims from around the world coming together to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. The festival is also celebrated in other parts of the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
In Africa, Bakrid is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in countries like Nigeria, Egypt, and Sudan. Muslims gather in mosques or open spaces to offer prayers and sacrifice animals. The meat from the sacrificed animal is then distributed among family, friends, and the poor.
Importance of Bakrid Festival
In today’s world, where there is so much division and conflict based on religion and ethnicity, Bakrid serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and brotherhood. It is a time for Muslims to come together and celebrate their faith, but it is also a time to reach out to others and share the blessings of Allah. The act of sacrifice and sharing with others is a powerful message that can inspire people of all faiths to come together and work towards a better world.
Bakrid in India in 2023 Holidays
Bakrid, known by various names such as Eid al-Adha, Eid ul Adha, Id-ul-Azha, Id-ul-Zuha, HariRaya Haji, or Bakr-id, is an auspicious occasion celebrated by the Muslim community. It is also referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice and holds great significance in the Muslim calendar. The festival is commonly known as Al Eid Al Kabeer, meaning the ‘Grand Eid,’ which reflects the grandeur of the celebrations. Unlike Eid Al Fitr, which is celebrated for a day, Bakrid festivities continue for up to four days, making it a crucial event in religious terms.
Bakrid Celebration in India 2023
Bakrid 2023 is a significant event celebrated worldwide in the Muslim community to commemorate the Prophet Abraham’s unwavering devotion to God, even if it meant sacrificing his beloved son. Eid al-Adha marks the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic calendar. Since the lunar sightings determine the particular date, Bakrid’s schedule may vary depending on different countries.
This year, Bakrid, or Eid ul-Adha, is expected to begin on Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, at sunset and conclude on Thursday, June 29th, 2023, at dusk. The day starts with prayers followed by a trip to the nearby mosque for early morning namaz. The festive greeting of “Eid Mubarak” echoes throughout the world on this auspicious occasion.
In India, Bakrid is commonly celebrated by symbolically emulating Ibrahim’s devotion by offering a cow, goat, lamb, buffalo, or camel. Afterward, many Muslim families distribute the meat from the sacrificed animal to family members, neighbors, friends, and the poor. They believe that serving these groups a meat-based meal on this holy day is essential. Additionally, Sheer khurma, a sweet dish made with milk, vermicelli, and dried fruits, is a crucial aspect of Bakrid.
Eid Al-Adha also commemorates the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is a time for Muslims worldwide to come together and celebrate their beliefs with joy and harmony.