Eid al-Adha 2023: Unveiling the Date and Traditions of the Feast of Sacrifice!

Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice” or the “Feast of the Lamb,” is one of the most significant observances in the Islamic calendar. This event commemorates the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim through the ritualistic sacrifice of a lamb, symbolizing much more than just a ceremonial act.

When is Eid al-Adha in 2023?

This year, it is anticipated that Eid al-Adha will fall around Friday, June 6, 2025. The celebration takes place on the tenth day of Dhul-Hijja, the last month of the Islamic calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam. It also marks the conclusion of the pilgrimage to Mecca. The exact date is determined by the sighting of the moon.

What are the 10 days of Dhul-Hijja before Eid al-Adha?

The 10 days of Dhul-Hijja, including Eid al-Adha, hold a special place in Islam as the most sacred days of the year. During this period, Muslims enhance their devotion to Allah and express generosity. It is advisable to fast during these 10 days, particularly on the Day of Arafat, a day highly esteemed in Islam. “This fast expiates the sins of the past and the coming year,” as reported in Sahih Muslim #1162.

What is the history and origin of Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha originates from a story shared in both Quranic and Biblical traditions, where Abraham, known as Ibrahim in Arabic, dreams of being commanded to sacrifice his son Ismael. Just as he is about to comply, an angel intervenes and substitutes a lamb in place of his son, symbolizing both a test of faith and divine mercy. In the Quran, Surah 37 (verses 105 to 113), this act is referred to as “a noble sacrifice,” interpreted to be the sacrifice of a lamb, ram, or sometimes a goat or cow. This is why Eid al-Adha is also called the “Feast of Sacrifice” or “Feast of the Lamb.”

What to do on Eid al-Adha?

Typically, on Eid al-Adha, Muslims start with ablutions followed by attending the grand Eid al-Adha prayer at the mosque in the morning, which is succeeded by the imam’s sermon. Afterwards, the ritual of sacrifice, typically performed by the head of the household, is carried out, and the meat is prepared following specific guidelines. The day also involves cooking other traditional dishes, family gatherings to share a meal, distributing meat to the needy, and exchanging gifts. This time is also dedicated to forgiveness, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

What are the rules for slaughtering sheep for Eid al-Adha?

The sacrifice of the sheep during Eid al-Adha must adhere to specific rules set by the Halal Service of the Grand Mosque of Paris. The animal should not see the blade or be stunned prior to its slaughter, which must be done after the prayer and before sunset on the third day, only in certified slaughterhouses. In France, these facilities are monitored by the departmental directorate for population protection, and any slaughtering outside these approved locations is subject to penalties. Once the sheep is properly bled following Islamic rites, it is ready to be consumed with family, traditionally sharing a portion of the meat with the less fortunate. Those wishing to perform a sacrifice should contact a certified slaughterhouse through the Ministry of Agriculture’s website.

What do we eat for Eid al-Adha?

Depending on the region (Tunisian, Moroccan, Algerian, etc.), culinary traditions might vary slightly. However, the main dish for Eid al-Adha remains mutton served with couscous.

Other common dishes include leg of lamb, or the mrouzia, a typical Moroccan dish that is a tagine with a mix of sweet and savory flavors.

How to wish a happy Eid al-Adha?

The traditional greeting for Eid is “Eid Mubarak!” In messages, Muslims might also write to their loved ones: “Happy Eid to you and your family! May this Muslim holiday bring you the best in this world: health, peace, and faith in Allah. God willing.”