Eid ul-Adha is formally known as the Festival of Sacrifice. It is one of the most important events to have taken place in Islamic history. Muslims from around the world come together to pray, reflect on the message behind Eid ul-Adha and to give to generously to their communities. As we delve into Eid ul-Adha 2025, we must revisit the root of the event and absorb the message behind it so we can properly prepare in the upcoming months.
When we think of Eid ul-Adha, the initial thought that springs to mind is how festive it is, but have you ever stopped to wonder why we celebrate Eid ul-Adha? Well, it all begins with prophet Ibrahim (AS). Stay with us as we discuss the early life of the prophet, the commands of Allah SWT and the message behind this story. Here at Muslim Aid, we always aim to inform our viewers of the work we carry out. Click here to learn more.
Thousands of years ago there was a prophet in Islam called Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He was also known as Abraham and as Khalilullah (The friend of Allah). At the time he was in what we know today as modern-day Iraq. Him and his wife at the time (Sarah) were childless for several years. But later by the will of Allah SWT, he was blessed with a son, after his second marriage to wife Hajar (Hagar).
Ismail (AS) was a very young boy, but old enough to walk with his father and help him with chores and work. Allah SWT had tested his faith through a dream he encountered one majestic night. The dream consisted of Allah SWT’s command for Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS). It is important to note that Ibrahim (AS) had dreamt for three consecutive nights where he found himself sacrificing his son and therefore knew it was a command from the Allah SWT. When prophets dream, it is known as Wahy, which translates to a form of revelation.
Allah SWT mentions of this in The Holy Quran:
Surah As-Saffat 37:102
"Then when (the son) reached the age to work with him, he said, 'O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you. So see what you think.' He said, 'O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.'"
One can only imagine how grand of a test this was for both father and son. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded to sacrifice the child he longed for and Ismail (AS) being so young accepted this situation and showing such militant faith by remaining steadfast. With this knowledge they both set off to what Muslims believe was near Mina, a mountain located in Saudi Arabia. Ibrahim (AS) tied his son up and laid him down. As he prepared to carry out the sacrifice, he had a knife in his hands and a heart filled with sorrow yet so much trust in his lord and in that very moment a miracle happened.
Allah called out to him with the following verses of Surah As-Saffat 37:104-107:
"We called out to him, 'O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision.' Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. This was truly a revealing test. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice."
Instead of his son Ismail, prophet Ibrahim (AS) found a ram in his place! And that too from Jannah (Paradise) which was put in place for sacrifice instead. This was a sign of acceptance, and the focus was not on the sacrifice itself but the submission to Allah’s will.
Reflect on your personal life about how easily and willing you are to give up things that are most dear to you in this life for the sake of Allah. May it be a designer handbag, a new car fresh from a showroom or a 5-bedroom property. The truth is, we must all return to our lord one day and these things truly hold no value. Children too are a test from Allah SWT, as parents, one must remember their purpose in this world, only attach their heart to their creator and remain steadfast in belief so they can adopt patience in every realm in life.
To this day, Muslims celebrate this event and get involved in the slaughtering of animals that are sacrificed in the name of Allah SWT and therefore this event has been known as Eid al-Adha.
Eid ul-Adha 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, June 6, 2025, and end on the evening of Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The exact date may vary depending on the sighting of the moon in different parts of the world, as Islamic months follow the lunar calendar.
This sacred festival takes place on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. For those unable to perform Hajj, celebrating Eid ul-Adha at home or within their communities still carries immense spiritual significance.
The question of how Eid ul-Adha is celebrated finds its answer in a blend of devotion, tradition, and generosity. The day typically begins with a special congregational prayer, known as the Eid Salah, held in mosques and open fields. Before attending the prayer, it is Sunnah to recite the Takbir, wear one's finest clothes, and have a light meal, often consisting of dates.
After the prayer, the central ritual of Qurbani (sacrifice) takes place. Muslims who are financially able offer the sacrifice of a livestock animal, usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel that is an act of obedience and remembrance of Ibrahim’s test. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbours, and one-third for those in need.
Many families also use this occasion to give Sadaqah (charity), visit relatives, and share meals. Children are often given gifts and new clothes, and communities come together in celebration. In essence, Eid ul-Adha strengthens bonds—both spiritual and social.
On this blessed occasion, Muslims are encouraged to increase their remembrance of Allah and make heartfelt supplications. A common dua for Eid ul-Adha includes:
"Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd."
This Takbir is recited starting from the Fajr of the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah until the Asr of the 13th, glorifying Allah and expressing gratitude for His mercy and blessings.
In addition to the Takbir, Muslims also make personal duas, asking for forgiveness, guidance, and peace for themselves and the entire Ummah.
So, why do we celebrate Eid ul-Adha? It is more than just a tradition—it’s a reaffirmation of our faith. The celebration reminds us of the values of trust in Allah, sacrifice for a greater cause, and the importance of sharing our blessings with those who are less fortunate.
For many, it’s also an opportunity to revive the Prophetic tradition of caring for the poor. The meat from Qurbani helps feed millions of hungry people around the world. This act of kindness not only fulfils a religious duty but also uplifts entire communities.
Muslim Aid has been at the forefront of this mission—delivering Qurbani meat to those in desperate need across the globe. With your support, we can continue spreading hope, one sacrifice at a time.
Celebrate the spirit of Eid ul-Adha by giving your Qurbani with Muslim Aid. Together, we can bring smiles to families who need it most.
As we approach Eid ul-Adha 2025, let us not only prepare with our clothes, feasts, and celebrations, but also with reflection and generosity. Whether it’s through Qurbani, dua, or acts of kindness, may this Eid be a source of blessings, unity, and spiritual growth for all.
Eid Mubarak from all of us at Muslim Aid!
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