Peshawar (August 21, 2018): Afghan refugees residing in Peshawar are observing Eid-ul-Azha with religious fervor today.
The largest gathering of Eid prayer was organized at Achini Bala. Great number of people attended the Eid prayer. While, Afghan refugees greeted each other after prayers. 
On Eid-ul-Azha, special prayers were made for long life of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Soon after the Eid prayers, people followed the Sunnah Ibrahimi of sacrificing animals, in which adults and kids participated with equal enthusiasm.
Pakistan is going to celebrate Eid tomorrow (Wednesday).
Earlier, more than two million Muslims offered Eid-ul-Azha prayers at Masjid al-Haram, the Grand Mosque in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi, also called the Prophet’s Mosque, in Madina early Tuesday morning.
The pilgrims, after completing their prayers, will move to Mina next, where they will perform the ritual of ‘stoning the devil’ before sacrificing animals.
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On Monday, more than two million Muslims gathered to perform Hajj. Sheikh Hussein bin Abdelaziz Al al-Sheikh delivered the sermon at Masjid-e-Nimra on the Arafat Day.
The top Saudi Imam said that Muslims need to run their matters pertaining to politics and finance under the guidelines of Islam. He emphasized that good conduct and courtesy reflect true picture of Islam.
He said Allah doesn’t like pride and arrogance, adding that our creator is one and we should not associate anyone with Him.
The Imam further stated that Allah directs us to fulfill your promises and don’t give pain to others. Do good behave with your neighbors, he added.
On the other hand, a sea of worshippers scaled the rocky hill southeast of the holy city of Makkah for a day of prayers and reflection where Muslims believe Prophet Mohammed delivered his final sermon.
A hot wind blew across the hill, also known as Jabal al-Rahma (Mount of Mercy), and the surrounding plain after a downpour late Sunday. Many faithful could be seen sipping from bottles of water.
After sunset, the pilgrims will leave for nearby Muzdalifah where they will gather pebbles to perform the symbolic “stoning of the devil”.
The hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam which every Muslim is required to complete at least once in their lifetime if they are healthy enough and have the means to do so.
At the end of the Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Makkah), Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice).
What Does Eid al-Adha Commemorate?
During the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Abraham. The Qur’an describes Abraham as follows:
“Surely Abraham was an example, obedient to Allah, by nature upright, and he was not of the polytheists. He was grateful for Our bounties. We chose him and guided him unto a right path. We gave him good in this world, and in the next, he will most surely be among the righteous.” (Qur’an 16:120-121)
One of Abraham’s main trials was to face the command of Allah to kill his only son. Upon hearing this command, he prepared to submit to Allah’s will. When he was all prepared to do it, Allah revealed to him that his “sacrifice” had already been fulfilled. He had shown that his love for his Lord superseded all others, that he would lay down his own life or the lives of those dear to him in order to submit to God.
Why Do Muslims Sacrifice an Animal on This Day?
During the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham’s trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. This action is very often misunderstood by those outside the faith.
Allah has given us power over animals and allowed us to eat meat, but only if we pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life. Muslims slaughter animals in the same way throughout the year. By saying the name of Allah at the time of slaughter, we are reminded that life is sacred.
The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, one-third is given away to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah’s commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others.
It is very important to understand that the sacrifice itself, as practiced by Muslims, has nothing to do with atoning for our sins or using the blood to wash ourselves from sin. This is a misunderstanding by those of previous generations: “It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him” (Qur’an 22:37).
The symbolism is in the attitude — a willingness to make sacrifices in our lives in order to stay on the Straight Path. Each of us makes small sacrifices, giving up things that are fun or important to us. A true Muslim, one who submits his or herself completely to the Lord, is willing to follow Allah’s commands completely and obediently. It is this strength of heart, purity in faith, and willing obedience that our Lord desires from us.
What Else Do Muslims Do to Celebrate the Holiday?
On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. Prayers are followed by visits with family and friends, and the exchange of greetings and gifts. At some point, members of the family will visit a local farm or otherwise will make arrangements for the slaughter of an animal. The meat is distributed during the days of the holiday or shortly thereafter.
Related News:
Eid-ul-Azha Prayers Offered At Masjid al-Haram, Masjid Nabawi
