Forgotten objectives of Eid al-Adha
By Farida Khanam
Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is one of Islam's most spiritually profound celebrations. On the day of Eid, two outward acts are performed: the congregational Eid prayer and ritual sacrifice of an animal.
Today, however, when Muslims think of Eid al-Adha, they often do not think beyond the ritual sacrifice. Many of the festival's deeper meanings – its focus on God-orientation, selflessness, and spiritual growth – have gradually faded from public awareness.
At the heart of Eid al-Adha lies the Quranic story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice what he loved most in submission to the divine command. This moment defines the essence of Islam itself: surrendering one's ego, will, and attachments for the sake of God. The Quran reminds us: 'It is not their flesh or blood that reaches God, but your piety.' (22:37)
This verse underscores the point that the true value of sacrifice lies not in the ritual but in the intention and consciousness behind it. The real question is whether we have sacrificed our ego, pride, selfishness, and greed.
Consider Bilal ibn Rabah's insights, a close companion of the Prophet, who said: 'I do not mind if I sacrifice a rooster. But to give its price in charity to an orphan or a poor person is more beloved to me than sacrificing it,' Musannaf Abd al-Razzaq, Hadith 8409. Bilal's insight elevates ethical spirit over mere ritual observance. It teaches that value of an act lies in the good it generates.
As the Prophet has observed: 'The best among you is the one from whom good is expected, and from whose harm people feel safe,' Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2263. Eid al-Adha, in this sense, serves as a powerful spiritual reminder to embody selflessness in daily life. It calls upon Muslims to become sources of compassion and peace, especially for the marginalised, needy, and those without a voice.
Eid al-Adha coincides with Hajj, the pilgrimage commemorating trials of Ibrahim, Hajar (wife), and Ismail (son). Each Hajj rite – whether standing at Arafat, stoning the pillars in Mina, or sacrificing an animal – represents symbolic acts of letting go of pride, anger, and materialism.
True celebration in Islam is not measured by festivity or excess, but by remembrance, gratitude, and moral responsibility. The Quran describes Prophet Ibrahim as 'thankful for His blessings' (16:121) – a reminder that real joy comes from acknowledging divine guidance, even amidst trials.
Eid al-Adha should therefore be seen not as a single-day event, but as a spiritual summit – a moment for introspection, transformation, and recommitment to God. It challenges the believer to reflect: 'Have I surrendered my will to the Divine, as Ibrahim did? Have I helped someone in need, even at personal cost? Have I purified my inner self of resentment, sense of superiority, and greed?'
These are true offerings of Eid. The real sacrifice lies in letting go of our ego. Eid al-Adha is more than just a celebration – Ibrahim's legacy calls for more than ceremonial obedience; it demands moral courage and deep compassion.
In an increasingly divided world, the message of Eid al-Adha is more relevant than ever: true submission to God is inseparable from service to humanity.
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