Mohammad Rukanuddin

Eidul Azha is a very special time for Muslims all around the world. It is more than just a holiday;it;s a celebration filled with deep meaning, reminding us of faith, the spirit of sacrifice, and theabundant blessings of Allah . Often called the "Festival of Sacrifice," Eidul Azha connects us to a powerful story of devotion and obedience.
The heart of Eidul Azha lies in remembering the story of Prophet Ibrahim. Allah, the Almighty,
commanded Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son, Prophet Ismail . Both father and son
showed incredible faith and willingness to obey Allah's command. Just as Prophet Ibrahim was
about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah, pleased with their devotion, intervened and provided a ram
to be sacrificed instead.
This act of unwavering faith and submission is what Muslims commemorate during Eidul Azha.The animal sacrifice, usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel, symbolizes Prophet Ibrahim readiness to give up what was most dear to him for the sake of the Creator. It is not just about the act of slaughtering an animal; it is a reminder of our own willingness to make sacrifices in our lives for our beliefs and for the well-being of others.The sacrifice on Eidul Azha also carries a strong message of sharing and community. A portion of the sacrificed animal is traditionally given to the poor and needy, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy and bounty of the occasion. This act of sharing fosters a sense of unity,compassion, and generosity within the community. It reminds us to be grateful for what we have
and to remember those who are less fortunate.Beyond the sacrifice, Eidul Azha is a time of immense blessings. Muslims offer special prayers called ;Eid prayers" in congregation, expressing their gratitude to Allah. Families come together,dressed in their finest clothes, to share meals and celebrate. There's a feeling of joy, togetherness,
and spiritual upliftment in the air.The blessings of Eidul Azha extend beyond the material. Itis a time for spiritual reflection, for strengthening our connection with Allah, and for seeking His forgiveness and guidance. The
spirit of sacrifice encourages us to let go of our selfish desires and to prioritize the needs of others. It teaches us patience, obedience, and the importance of trusting in Allahs plan. In essence, Eidul Azha beautifully weaves together the threads of faith, sacrifice, and divine blessings. It reminds us of the profound faith of Prophet Ibrahim, encourages us to make sacrifices in our own lives, and fills our hearts with gratitude for the countless blessings we receive. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and most importantly, for drawing closer to Allah and to our fellow human beings. As Muslims around the world celebrate this auspicious
occasion, they reaffirm their commitment to faith, embody the spirit of sacrifice, and bask in thewarmth of divine blessings.
The writer is Assistant Professor of English and President of AUST Cultural Club,
Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology, Dhaka