Eid-e-Ghorban is an Islamic holiday observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. This year, Eid-e-Ghorban falls on June 29 . This holiday is also known as the feast of sacrifice or ‘Al Eid Al Kabeer,’ which translates to “Grand Eid,” which is also another name for the holiday. This Eid has a higher religious significance because it lasts for four days. It is held throughout the Muslim world to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to give up all for God. The actual day of Eid-e-Ghorban is determined by lunar observations, hence it may differ from country to country.
History of Eid-e-Ghorban
The “Feast of Sacrifice,” also known as Eid-e-Gharbon, commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as Allah commanded. It is regarded as one of the most important Islamic holidays. This Islamic festival is observed for three to four days and is observed by millions of Muslims around the world. The holiday begins on the tenth day of the Islamic calendar lunar month of Dhu al-Hijjah, during Hajj, the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca; the exact day is determined by lunar observations. Eid al-Adha ends with the completion of Hajj a few days after the lunar sightings on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.According to Islamic tradition, Ibrahim had a spiritual dream that he would be forced to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, under Allah’s will. He had this dream repeatedly until he awoke one night and ordered his wife to prepare their son for an important occasion. Ibrahim told his kid about his dream when the time arrived. When Ishmael replied that he obeys God’s will, his father tried to kill him with a knife.Instead of sacrificing Ishmael, Allah sent Ibrahim a lamb to sacrifice because they had followed God’s will. Later, Ibrahim and Ishmael collaborated to build the Kaaba, the holiest site for Muslims in Saudi Arabia.
Eid-e-Ghorban timeline
Discovery of a calligraphic fragment depicting Arabic blessings for Eid al-Adha.
Hajj is connected with the life of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, who lived in the 7th Century A.D., but Muslims believe the journey to Mecca dates back thousands of years to Ibrahim's time.
Hajj becomes a part of the five pillars of Islam after Prophet Muhammad's last pilgrimage with numerous followers, instructing them on how the Hajj rites are to be performed.
Prophet Muhammad embarks on the first pilgrimage from Mecca.
Eid-e-Ghorban FAQs
What are the traditional Eid outfits?
Traditionally, men wear kurta pajamas and women wear saree salwar kameez.
Is Eid similar to Christmas?
Eid is akin to Christmas for Muslims.
What are the usual plans for Eid al-Adha?
Many Muslims make a special effort to pray and listen to a sermon in a mosque during Eid al-Adha.
How to Observe Eid-e-Ghorban
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Travel to Mecca
Many Muslims travel to Mecca to make the Hajj pilgrimage during the period around Eid-e-Ghorban. Package vacations are usually available from a variety of nations. You may prepare and save for it years in advance to participate in this event.
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Say special prayers on Eid-e-Ghorban
Many Muslims make a special effort to pray and listen to a sermon in a mosque during Eid-e-Ghorban. Wear new clothes, visit relatives and friends, and perform a symbolic animal sacrifice known as Qurbani.
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Host communal dinners
A full carcass can be purchased from a butcher and divided amongst family members or prepared for a communal dinner. You can also donate money to help the less fortunate people of their community eat a meat-based supper.
5 Facts About Eid-e-Ghorban
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It's a common narrative across religions
Jews and Christians are both familiar with the narrative of Eid-e-Gharbon, which can be found in the Bible.
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It has several names
Eid-e-Gharbon is also called meat Eid and is an Islamic holiday.
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Ishmael is considered a prophet
Ishmael is recognized as a prophet and Muhammad's ancestor in Islam.
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It has special prayers
Iran's Eid-e-Ghorban prayers are known as Namaz Eid and Iranian Muslims dress traditionally.
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Savory Dishes are eaten on this day
Because a bigger variety of its dishes are savory and made of beef or mutton, it is also known as the salty Eid' for food in Iran.
Why Eid-e-Ghorban is Important
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It's a part of Islam's history
Eid-e-Gharbon has a long and impactful history. Its origin dates back to the time before the prophet Muhammad. It is one of the most significant events in Islamic history.
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It encourages kindness
On this day, Muslims prepare communal meals to share with their family and community. Donations of clothes, food, and money are also a tradition during this period.
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It highlights aspects of Islam
The celebration creates and spreads cultural awareness of Islam. It shows aspects of the Muslim culture that the media does not show. It also offers an interesting insight into Islamic beliefs.
Eid-e-Ghorban dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | June 29 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | June 29 | Thursday |
| 2024 | June 17 | Monday |
| 2025 | June 7 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 27 | Wednesday |
