The Festival of Sacrifice - Eid-ul-Azha

Celebrated all over the world by Muslims on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah, this event marks the great sacrifice that Abraham (Ibrahim) was required to make to The Almighty - one of his son, Ishmael (Ismail). The festival in its true spirit commemorates the willingness of Abraham to obey The Almighty's orders, when divine intervention caused a sheep to appear in Ishamel's place to be sacrificed instead. The term "Eid-ul-Azha" itself means "Festival of Sacrifice".

Muslims dress up in their best clothes on the day, paying special attention to personal cleanliness. Salat al-Eid, the special Eid prayer, is performed in congregation in all mosques and gatherings throughout the Muslim world.

Sahib-e-Nisaab Muslims (those who can afford), in accordance with the great tradition of personal sacrifice set by Abraham, are required to slaughter a domestic animal (usually a goat, sheep, cow or camel) as set forth in the 'Sunnat' of the Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H.). The meat is then divided into three equal parts: one to be kept for personal use, another to be distributed amongst friends and relatives, and the third to be given to those in need. Hence, in keeping with the great practices of Islam, the festival tends to involve the less privileged in the festivities too.