Celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha: A Reflection on Faith, Family, and Sacrifice

Every year, millions of Muslims around the world come together to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. This important religious holiday, which occurs on the tenth day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time for reflection, gratitude, and community. It is a reminder of the steadfastness and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) towards Allah, and the ultimate sacrifice he was willing to make for his faith.

Hari Raya Aidiladha is an annual event that varies each year according to the Islamic calendar. This year, it falls on July 20th.

Also known as Eid al-Adha, this celebration is the second of two Eid festivals in Islam, with the first being Eid al-Fitr.

In the weeks leading up to Hari Raya Aidiladha, Muslims around the world perform the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which is also known as the fifth pillar of Islam.

During this time, they commemorate and retrace the steps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, who are considered to be the forefathers of the religion.

According to the Quran, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his wife Sarah were blessed with a son, Ismail, despite being elderly and facing many hardships.

However, their faith was tested when Allah commanded Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his beloved son.

Despite the immense love and attachment he had for his son, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) trusted in Allah and was willing to submit to His will.

The night before the sacrifice was to take place, Allah sent a ram in place of Ismail, and Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was rewarded for his unwavering faith.

The sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and the eventual redemption of his son is a reminder of the importance of putting one’s faith in Allah and submitting to His will, even in the face of difficult challenges.

One of the main traditions of Hari Raya Aidiladha is the Qurbani, which is the act of sacrificing an animal, usually a goat, sheep, cow or camel.

This sacrifice serves as a symbol of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s willingness to give up what he held most dear for the sake of Allah.

The meat from the Qurbani is then divided into three parts – one part for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate.

This highlights the importance of sharing and giving to those in need, and is a reminder to be grateful for the blessings in our lives and to be mindful of those who may be less fortunate.

In addition to the Qurbani, one of the most significant aspects of Hari Raya Aidiladha is the sense of community and togetherness.

Families and friends come together to pray, feast and exchange warm greetings and well wishes.

A variety of traditional dishes are prepared, such as rendang, ketupat, and satay, and enjoyed in homes, mosques, and at communal gatherings.

It is a time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and strengthening family and community ties.

Muslims also wear new or traditional clothes, visit the graves of loved ones, and give gifts to children and loved ones as a sign of love and appreciation.

The celebrations usually last for three days, and the atmosphere is one of joy, gratitude, and unity.

Hari Raya Aidiladha is not just a religious event, but also a cultural one, that is celebrated by Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

In many countries, it is declared a public holiday and is observed with grand processions, decorations and light displays.

Social media also plays a significant role in the celebration, with people sharing well wishes, photos, and heartfelt messages with their loved ones across the globe.

Hari Raya Aidiladha is also an opportunity for people of different backgrounds and cultures to come together and learn about each other’s beliefs and traditions.

The celebrations may vary from country to country, but the underlying message and spirit of the festival remain the same – to commemorate the steadfastness and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and to remember the importance of faith, sacrifice, and community.

As we celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha this year, let us take this opportunity to reflect on our faith, strengthen our relationships, and share our blessings with those around us.

May this special occasion bring joy, peace, and blessings to you and your loved ones. Eid Mubarak!

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