Holy Offerings and Heartfelt Embraces: This is How Millions of Muslims Celebrate the Moving Festival of Sharing

The heart of the Sacrifice Feast is the remembrance of the story of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). God tested him and asked him to sacrifice his son. When Ibrahim was ready to follow this difficult command, God intervened and allowed him to sacrifice an animal instead. This story symbolically represents faith, obedience, and God's grace.

More Than Just a Sacrifice: The Meaning of Sharing

The name "Sacrifice Feast" comes from the Arabic word "kurban," which means "closeness" or "offering." It is about getting closer to God. A central custom is the ritual slaughtering of an animal (often a sheep, cow, or goat). The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one part for one's own family, one part for friends and relatives, and a large part for those in need.

The Heart of the Festival: Community and Generosity

This is where the deep social dimension of the festival is revealed. It is a time of immense generosity. Sharing with the poor and needy is a central idea and an important pillar of Islam. It is about showing gratitude and not forgetting those who are less fortunate.

How the Sacrifice Feast is Celebrated

The celebrations often begin with a special festive prayer in the morning at the mosque. Afterwards, families and friends gather. It is a time for visits, shared meals, the distribution of gifts, especially to children, and of course, the communal eating of the sacrificial animal's meat. The atmosphere is festive, characterized by togetherness and joy. People wish each other "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Festival) or "Kurban Bayramınız mübarek olsun."

A Festival of Connection

The Sacrifice Feast reminds Muslims every year of the importance of faith, obedience, generosity, and community. It is a period that is all about coming together, both within the family and with the wider community, and shows how important it is to share with and be there for one another.

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