Eid ul-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice or Qurbani Eid, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to obey Allah’s command to sacrifice his son.

This festival takes place during the month of Dhul-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is also the time when Muslims worldwide perform Hajj.

This Festival of Sacrifice is deeply intertwined with themes of charity. In 2024, as Muslims worldwide gather to celebrate Eid al-Adha, let’s explore its significance, the rituals involved, and how it supports charitable work, particularly in African communities.

When is Eid Ul Adha 2024 – Islamic Calendar USA

According to Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA) Eid Al Adha date for 1445 AH – 2024 is expected to fall on June 16, 2024

Eid al-Adha 2024: 16th June 2024.
Day of Arafah: 15th June 2024.

Is Eid ul Adha a public holiday in the US?

Eid al-Adha is not a federal public holiday in the United States, meaning it is not officially recognized as a day off for most businesses and schools nationwide. But In some areas, such as New York, schools close on this day.

What is Dhul Hijjah?

Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide, particularly those residing in the USA who seek to connect with their faith and cultural heritage. This sacred month is synonymous with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and encompasses a period of spiritual reflection, devotion, and community.

During Dhul Hijjah, millions of Muslims from around the globe converge on the holy city of Mecca to perform the Hajj, fulfilling a religious obligation that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they have the means to do so. This pilgrimage is a journey of faith, equality, and unity, as pilgrims don simple white garments, symbolizing purity and the shedding of worldly distinctions.

For Muslims in the USA, Dhul Hijjah offers a unique opportunity to engage with their faith through various religious practices and community activities:

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are particularly revered, with the Day of Arafah, falling on the ninth day, standing out as a day of immense significance. On this day, pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafah to seek forgiveness and mercy, while Muslims around the world observe fasting and prayers.
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah’s command. This festival is marked by communal prayers, feasts, and the symbolic sacrifice of an animal, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and the needy, reflecting the values of charity and compassion.

What is Yawm al-Arafah?

Yawm al-Arafah, or the Day of Arafah, is the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is one of the most important days in the Islamic year, marked by profound spiritual significance.
Yawm al-Arafah is the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage. On this day, millions of pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafah, near Mecca, to stand in prayer, seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah. This standing, or “wuquf,” is a key ritual of Hajj and symbolizes the climax of the pilgrimage.
It is believed that on this day, Allah descends to the nearest heaven and listens to the supplications of the believers, granting forgiveness for sins. It is a day dedicated to earnest prayer, repentance, and seeking divine mercy.
While pilgrims are engaged in the rites of Hajj, Muslims around the world are encouraged to fast on Yawm al-Arafah. Fasting on this day is believed to expiate the sins of the previous year and the coming year, as per the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Muslims engage in various acts of worship on this day, including reciting Quran, making dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and performing extra prayers. The day is seen as an opportunity to renew one’s faith and deepen spiritual connections.
For Muslims in the USA, Yawm al-Arafah serves as a reminder of the unity and solidarity of the global Muslim community (ummah). It is a time for community gatherings, shared prayers, and collective reflection on the values of faith and compassion.
Yawm al-Arafah precedes Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. It serves as a day of spiritual preparation for the celebrations that follow, emphasizing the themes of sacrifice, generosity, and community support.
The day offers an opportunity for Muslims to cleanse their hearts of negativity, renew their intentions, and strive for a higher level of piety and devotion in their daily lives.

How to Celebrate Eid al-Adha 2024 in the USA

1. Prayers

Mosques and Islamic centers host special prayers, followed by communal gatherings and festive meals. These events provide an opportunity for Muslims to connect, celebrate, and engage in charitable activities.

Sunnahs of Eid al-Adha Prayer

Waking Up Early: It is recommended to wake up early on Eid al-Adha. This allows ample time to perform all the Sunnah practices and prepare for the Eid prayer.
Performing Ghusl: Performing ghusl (ritual purification) is highly encouraged. This act of cleanliness symbolizes purifying oneself before participating in the communal prayer and festivities.
Wearing Best Clothes: Muslims are encouraged to wear their finest clothes on Eid al-Adha. This often involves wearing new clothes or the best available attire, signifying respect for the occasion.
Applying Perfume: It is Sunnah for men to apply perfume as a means of personal hygiene and to enhance the joyous atmosphere of the day.
The Takbir: The Takbir is a fundamental part of Eid al-Adha celebrations. It involves the recitation of the following phrase:

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa Lillahil Hamd

This translates to “Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, there is no deity except Allah, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.”

The Takbir is recited loudly from the dawn of Eid al-Adha until the start of the Eid prayer, emphasizing the greatness of Allah and setting a spiritual tone for the day.

Performing the Eid Prayer: The Eid al-Adha prayer consists of two Rak’ahs (units of prayer) performed in congregation. The prayer is followed by a sermon (Khutbah) that reflects on the significance of the day and offers religious guidance.
Listening to the Khutbah: After the Eid prayer, it is Sunnah to listen to the Khutbah. The sermon provides religious guidance and reflections on the significance of Eid al-Adha.
Congratulating Each Other: Exchanging greetings such as “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) and “Taqabbal Allah minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept from us and you) fosters a sense of community and brotherhood.

2. Qurbani/Udhiyah:

One of the key rituals of Eid al-Adha is Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This tradition has a dual significance. On one hand, it represents the symbolic act of sacrifice, mirroring the story of Ibrahim and Ismail. On the other hand, it underscores the importance of sharing with those in need.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani is a form of worship that also serves a social purpose. This distribution structure ensures that the benefits of the sacrifice extend beyond the individual, fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.

Know more about:

What is Qurbani? See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/what-is-qurbani/

Is Qurbani Farz or Sunnah? See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/is-qurbani-farz-or-sunnah/

However, this tradition is less prevalent in the United States. Here, many American Muslims prefer to contribute financially to charitable organizations that oversee the distribution of meat or provide various forms of assistance to needy Muslim families, both locally and internationally. This approach ensures the spirit of charity and community support remains strong even without the physical act of sacrifice.

One such esteemed organization is Africa Relief. Known for its integrity and commitment, Africa Relief ensures that meat from Eid al-Adha sacrifices reaches those in need across various parts of Africa. By partnering with Africa Relief, donors can be confident that their contributions are making a significant impact, providing essential sustenance to impoverished communities and upholding the true spirit of Eid al-Adha.

Learn more about Qurbani practice:

Who is Eligible for Qurbani? See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/who-is-eligible-for-qurbani/

Qurbani Rules & Udhiyah guidelines. See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/qurbani-rules-udhiyah-guidelines/

How to donate qurbani in USA Step-by-Step Guide. See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/how-to-donate-qurbani-usa/

How much is Qurbani? See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/how-much-is-qurbani/

Where to donate qurbani meat? See more at the following link: https://africa-relief.org/where-to-donate-qurbani-meat/

3. Family celebrations:

In the United States, families typically begin the day by dressing in their finest clothes and attending a communal prayer at the local mosque. This prayer is an essential part of the Eid al-Adha rituals and is often followed by a sermon.

After the prayers, families return home to continue the celebrations. Eid al-Adha is celebrated with festive meals that bring together families and communities. Traditional dishes vary widely, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Muslim world.

In many households, you might find biryani, a spiced rice dish popular in South Asia, or couscous with lamb from North Africa. These meals are not just about food; they are a time for family gatherings, where loved ones come together to share in the joy and blessings of the holiday. The diverse culinary traditions highlight the rich cultural tapestry that defines the global Muslim community.

Charity: Zakat, Sadaqah, Donations, Charitable Organizations

In keeping with the spirit of Eid al-Adha, many families also focus on acts of charity. They may donate money, food, and clothing to those in need, extending the festive spirit beyond their own homes. This charitable aspect is a crucial part of the celebration, reinforcing the importance of helping others and building a sense of community. Organizations like Africa Relief play a significant role in these charitable efforts.

Trusted by many, Africa Relief ensures that the meat from Eid al-Adha sacrifices reaches those in need across Africa. By donating to such organizations, families can make a meaningful impact, helping to provide essential sustenance to impoverished communities and embodying the true spirit of Eid al-Adha.

Charity is a central aspect of Eid al-Adha, with a focus on Zakat and Sadaqah. Zakat, an obligatory form of almsgiving, and Sadaqah, voluntary charity, are both important ways Muslims support those in need. During Eid al-Adha, many Muslims give donations to charitable organizations, ensuring their contributions reach the underprivileged. These acts of kindness and generosity not only fulfill religious duties but also strengthen community bonds and provide essential support to the less fortunate.

4.Community Events:

In the USA, the Muslim community celebrates Eid al-Adha with diverse customs and traditions. As a multicultural society, the celebration reflects the rich tapestry of Muslim cultures from around the world. For Muslims, Eid al-Adha is a time to strengthen ties with their heritage and support relief efforts, African communities are one of most important issues.

How Eid al-Adha Udhiyas Support African Communities

You have the opportunity to be a part of the potential transformation for African communities. By supporting Africa Relief that organizes Qurbani event, donors can ensure their contributions feeding much-needed nutrition to families. Testimonials from beneficiaries highlight the difference that these donations make, often providing a rare source of high-quality protein and joy during the festive season.

How Donations Support African Communities

Donations made during Eid al-Adha have a profound effect on African communities. Through reputable charities and humanitarian organizations, the funds raised during this festival support a wide range of projects aimed at alleviating poverty in Africa, Water wells, schools, health initiatives, and food aid programs are just a few examples of the initiatives funded by donations. In regions where access to basic resources is limited, these projects play a critical role in enhancing the well-being of families and communities. The positive impact is often reflected in testimonials from beneficiaries, who share stories of how these projects have transformed their lives.

Donations during Eid al-Adha from donors support education and healthcare. Scholarships for students, medical supplies for clinics, and vocational training programs are some of the ways these funds are used to create long-term benefits for African communities. By contributing to these causes, Muslims worldwide participate in a collective effort to make a difference.

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