The True Concept of Eid al-Adha

The true concept of Eid al-Adha is rooted in the spirit of sacrificing everything for the pleasure of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He), just as Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) was prepared to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (Ishmael, peace be upon him), in obedience to the command of Allah, the Lord of the worlds. The essence of this day lies in obedience, sincerity, piety, and selflessness. As mentioned in the Holy Qur’an: لَن يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَٰكِن يَنَالُهُالتَّقْوَىٰ مِنكُمْ „It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.” (Surah Al-Hajj, verse 37). Similarly, another verse says: قُلْ إِنَّ صَلَاتِي وَنُسُكِي وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ „Say, indeed my prayer, my sacrifice, my life and my death are for Allah, the Lord of the worlds.” (Surah Al-An’am, verse 162). Eid al-Adha teaches us that it is not enough to simply slaughter an animal. Rather, it is equally important to sacrifice our ego, desires, pride, greed, and arrogance. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:„Actions are judged by intentions.” (Sahih al-Bukhari).The instruction to distribute the meat of the sacrifice signifies that we should not limit joy and blessings to ourselves but also be mindful of the needs and feelings of others. This day is an opportunity for spiritual training. It reminds us that true success lies only in seeking the pleasure of Allah (Glorious is He), and a true believer always gives Him precedence in all circumstances.

Altaf Choudhry

07.06.2025