Celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha: Reflecting on Faith, Family, and Sacrifice

Each year, millions of Muslims worldwide come together to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. Observed on the tenth day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, this deeply meaningful occasion invites reflection, gratitude, and a renewed sense of community. It commemorates the unwavering devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Allah, and his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for his faith.

The date of Hari Raya Aidiladha shifts each year according to the lunar Islamic calendar; in 2024, it will be observed on July 20th. Also referred to as Eid al-Adha, it is the second of Islam’s two major Eid celebrations, following Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

The Spiritual Significance of Hari Raya Aidiladha

Hari Raya Aidiladha coincides with the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the fifth pillar of Islam. During Hajj, Muslims retrace the steps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, who are regarded as the forebears of the Islamic faith.

According to the Quran, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his wife Sarah were blessed with their son Ismail in their later years, after enduring many hardships. Their faith was tested when Allah commanded Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his beloved son as a sign of absolute submission and trust in God’s will.

Despite his deep love for Ismail, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) prepared to fulfill Allah’s command. However, at the last moment, Allah intervened and sent a ram to be sacrificed in Ismail’s place—rewarding Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and devotion.

This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting in Allah and submitting to His will, even in the face of the most difficult challenges.

The Tradition of Qurbani: Honoring Sacrifice and Generosity

Central to Hari Raya Aidiladha is the ritual of Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal such as