The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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Eid al-Adha, a national holiday, is a celebration of faith and hope and divine intervention. Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”, is one of the most important Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and lasts for four days. It is a time to remember the values of sacrifice, obedience, and submission to Allah.

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Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in the Bible) to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah. According to Islamic tradition, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. During Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal, usually a cow, sheep, or goat, in commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience and willingness to sacrifice his own son. The meat from the animal is then divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and the remaining third for the less fortunate.

In addition to the sacrifice, Muslims also attend special Eid prayers, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and partake in festive meals and celebrations. The holiday is a time of gratitude, piety, and community and is considered one of the most important events in the Islamic calendar. 

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Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha on the last day of Hajj, also known as a ritual called “tawaf”, which involves walking seven times around the Kaaba in the holy city of Mecca and is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to do Hajj at least once in their lifetime; it is an act of worship and renewal of faith and is a unique experience to share with their fellow Muslims from around the world in the holiest site in Islam.

The holiday is celebrated in different ways in different parts of the world. In some countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, the entire week is a public holiday, while in other countries, such as the United States, it is not recognised as an official holiday.

Eid al-Adha is a time of spiritual reflection, growing as a community, and a celebration for Muslims worldwide.