It’s Another Sallah-Bration!

By Tolulope Olaifa

Eid-Al-Kabir or Eid-Al-Adha is a celebration that usually takes place two months and ten days after Eid-Al-Fitri. Nigerians are always looking forward to this particular celebration because this is “the celebration where they kill ram and do party”. However, not many Nigerians understand the reason behind the whole celebration.

Eid-Al-Adha means “the Feast of Sacrifice” and it is a commemoration of the time when Prophet Ibrahim was ready to sacrifice Ismail, a son that was born in his old age and after years of asking Allah. When Prophet Ibrahim attempted to sacrifice his son, he found a slaughtered ram and his son was unhurt. The willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to let go of such a treasured son is the reason behind this whole celebration.

Eid-Al-Kabir is usually started with prayers of Eid, after which sacrifices of animals and distribution of the meat to the poor and less privileged as a show of one’s willingness to help others. Over the years, however, people have slowly forgotten the real reason for the celebration of Eid-Al-Kabir and have turned the celebration into a mere obligation.

This Eid-Al Kabir, the lesson for both Muslims and non-Muslims is that you should be willing to sacrifice and forfeit rights and privileges to help your fellow humans. Also, obedience to Allah, parents, leaders and people in the position of authority is important, as it is an expression of willingness to sacrifice. Whether you are planning to celebrate at home or travelling for a getaway , learn to share with the less privileged and do it with a good attitude. Eid Mubarak to everyone, and don’t forget my meat when you are sharing o!

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