When Is Eid Al-Adha 2022? Traditions And History For Muslim Feast Of Sacrifice After Hajj

Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the holiest celebrations on the Islamic calendar. This year, it begins on the evening of July 9 and ends on July 10. It is marked with the culmination of Hajj – an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

What and when is Eid Al-Adha?

Eid Al-Adha also represents the end of Hajj, that lasts three to four days. The Koran recommends all Muslims make the journey at least once in their lifetime.

The starting date for Eid Al-Adha is dependent on the sighting of the new moon. It is determined based on the lunar cycle, which means the festival falls on a different date every year. It is also marked on different dates in different countries. The United States will mark this day on Saturday.

Muslims celebrate this day as a reminder of the time when Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son, but was told by God to sacrifice an animal instead. The celebration symbolizes Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah.

How is Eid Al-Adha celebrated?

Worshippers typically slaughter an animal like a goat or sheep. Close to 10 million animals are slaughtered in Pakistan on Eid. One-third of the meat is supposed to be consumed by the family, one-third is to be shared with friends or neighbors and the third portion to be donated to the needy. Muslims start out the day with a morning prayer, then exchange gifts and food among family and friends.

Those who make the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia are expected to perform two rituals. The first is known as “Umrah,” or a journey to Mecca at any time of the year. The second is the main pilgrimage, known as “Hajj.” During these rituals, worshippers are to circle the Kaaba, believed to be a shrine built by Ibrahim and pray to Allah.

Following the sacrifice, Muslims greet their friends and family using the most common term, “Eid Mubarak,” or “Blessed Eid.” Other phrases such as “Kul ’am wa inta bekhair,” or “May every year see you in good health,” and “Eid Saeed,” or “Happy Eid,” are also used.