Eid ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of Islam’s most sacred celebrations—a powerful reminder of obedience, sacrifice, and compassion. As we honour the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Muslims across the world are called to reflect, give generously, and uplift those facing hardship.
THE QUR’ANIC FOUNDATION OF EID UL-ADHA
The story of Eid ul-Adha originates with the profound test of faith endured by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS), beautifully captured in the Qur’an:
“Then when they had both submitted their wills (to Allah), and he had laid him prostrate on his forehead, We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision.’ Verily, thus do We reward the doers of good.”
– Surah As-Saffat (37:103–105)
In recognition of his unwavering obedience, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram from paradise. This moment marked the divine origin of the Qurbani tradition—sacrifice as a sign of complete submission and mercy.
The Qur’an further reminds us:
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him.”
– Surah Al-Hajj (22:37)
The act of Qurbani is ultimately about devotion, sincerity, and intention—not just ritual. The meat benefits the people, but the taqwa (piety) is what reaches Allah.
THE SUNNAH OF GIVING AND COMPASSION
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully reinforced Islam’s values of empathy and social responsibility:
“He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while the neighbour to his side goes hungry.”
– (Sahih Bukhari)
During Eid, our worship is intertwined with generosity. The Prophet (pbuh) was known for his abundant charity, especially during the days of sacrifice.
Another Hadith powerfully highlights the spiritual reward of Qurbani:
“The son of Adam does not do any action on the Day of Sacrifice that is more beloved to Allah than shedding blood (for Qurbani). It will come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, hair, and hooves, and its blood will be accepted by Allah before it even falls to the ground.”
– (Tirmidhi, 1493)
HOW IS EID UL-ADHA CELEBRATED IN NIGERIA?
In Nigeria, Eid ul-Adha 2025 will be observed with joy, prayer, and family gatherings. But for millions living in poverty, this sacred day may pass without food or festivity. While many will wear their best clothes and enjoy delicious meals, others will wake up to hunger and despair
.
That’s why Muslims are instructed to divide the Qurbani meat into three parts:
One-third for family,
One-third for friends and neighbours,
One-third for those in need.
This division reflects the Prophetic tradition and the deep value Islam places on helping the less fortunate.
CHARITY IN ISLAM: A LIFELONG CALLING
Islam does not limit charity to certain days. Instead, it calls believers to live lives rooted in compassion:
“And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.”
– Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195)
From Zakat to Sadaqah, every act of giving strengthens our souls and supports our brothers and sisters in need.
The Prophet (pbuh) said:
“The most beloved of people to Allah is the one who brings the most benefit to others.”
– (Al-Mu’jam al-Awsat)MAKE YOUR SACRIFICE COUNT THIS EID UL-ADHA
As Eid ul-Adha 2025 approaches, let us prepare not only with our clothes and meals—but with reflection, sincerity, and acts of service.
Let your Qurbani be a true echo of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion.
Let your generosity uplift lives.
Let your faith shine through action.
May Allah (SWT) accept your sacrifices, elevate your intentions, and fill your homes with barakah. From all of us at 3SixtyIslam, we wish you a joyful, meaningful, and blessed EID MUBARAK.
