Eid ul-Adha is fast approaching, and for Muslims across Nigeria and the world, it is a time of reflection, celebration, and spiritual sacrifice. As many begin preparing by purchasing animals for Qurbani, stitching festive garments, and decorating their homes, it’s important to remember that Eid ul-Adha is more than festivities—it’s about embodying the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) through acts of devotion, charity, and Sunnah.
While offering Qurbani, wearing your best clothes, and attending the Eid prayers are integral to the occasion, there are also key Sunnah acts associated with Eid ul-Adha that enhance its spiritual value. These traditions, followed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), serve as a powerful reminder of the faith, discipline, and compassion that Eid represents.
WHEN IS EID UL-ADHA 2025 IN NIGERIA?
Eid ul-Adha in Nigeria is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, 6th June 2025, and end on Tuesday, 10th June 2025, coinciding with the 10th to 13th days of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar. The celebration follows the completion of Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and begins with Salat al-Eid (Eid prayer), followed by the Qurbani (sacrificial slaughter of an animal).
SUNNAH ACTS OF EID UL-ADHA
To honour the traditions of the Prophet (PBUH), here are several Sunnah practices Muslims are encouraged to observe on Eid ul-Adha:
1. PERFORM FAJR PRAYER
Begin the day by waking early and offering the Fajr prayer. This obligatory act holds immense reward and was part of the Prophet’s (PBUH) daily routine.
2. TAKE GHUSL BEFORE SALAT AL-EID
Performing a ritual bath (Ghusl) before Eid prayer is a recommended Sunnah. It promotes cleanliness and prepares you spiritually and physically for the day’s blessings.
3. USE MISWAK TO CLEAN THE TEETH
The Prophet (PBUH) regularly used Miswak, a natural tooth-cleaning stick, especially on Fridays and festive occasions. It’s a Sunnah that encourages both hygiene and following the Prophet’s example.
4. WEAR YOUR BEST CLOTHES
Eid is a day of joy and gratitude. Dressing in clean, dignified, and festive clothing honours the spirit of the occasion. Wearing new or well-maintained clothes is a Sunnah act, reflecting gratitude to Allah.
5. APPLY ATTAR (NON-ALCOHOLIC PERFUME)
The Prophet (PBUH) loved pleasant fragrances. Applying Attar, especially for men, is a Sunnah that adds to the celebratory atmosphere of Eid.
6. ATTEND SALAT AL-EID
Join your community for the congregational Eid prayer. After the khutbah (sermon), Qurbani can be performed. The Eid prayer is an essential part of the day’s rituals and a significant Sunnah.
QURBANI: THE HEART OF EID UL-ADHA
The central act of Eid ul-Adha is the Qurbani—the sacrifice of an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This ritual commemorates the profound devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was prepared to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS), in obedience to Allah’s command. Allah, in His infinite mercy, replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, marking this moment as a symbol of unwavering faith.
The sacrifice is an obligation (wajib) for those who are eligible and financially able. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the household, one-third for friends and relatives, and one-third for the poor and needy. Through this act, Muslims are reminded of their duty to serve humanity and share their blessings.
SACRIFICE IN THE QUR’AN
While the Sunnah outlines the practices of Eid, the Qur’an emphasizes the significance of sacrifice:
“And for every [religious] community We have appointed a rite [of sacrifice] that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals…”
— Surah Al-Hajj (22:34)
“So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor.”
— Surah Al-Hajj (22:28)
“It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.”
— Surah Al-Hajj (22:37)
These verses reinforce the idea that the sincerity behind the act is what truly matters in the sight of Allah.
IS FASTING BEFORE EID UL-ADHA A SUNNAH?
Unlike Eid ul-Fitr, which follows the fasting month of Ramadan, Eid ul-Adha is not preceded by a month-long fast. However, fasting on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah), the day before Eid, is highly recommended for non-pilgrims. The Prophet (PBUH) said that fasting on this day expiates sins of the past and coming year.
EMBRACING THE SPIRIT OF EID UL-ADHA
Eid ul-Adha is not only a time of sacrifice and celebration but also a call to embody the humility, compassion, and faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Performing the Sunnah acts and understanding the deeper meaning behind each practice enriches the Eid experience and draws us closer to the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
May Allah (SWT) accept the Hajj of all pilgrims, accept our Qurbani, and guide us to walk in the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (PBUH). Let us embrace this Eid with gratitude, unity, and a renewed commitment to our faith.
EID MUBARAK FROM ALL OF US AT 3SIXTYISLAM.
