By Qudsia Osmani
On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, Muslims will set out to various mosques around the world to gather in unity and offer Salat al Eid. The pilgrims at Makkah will be marking the end of their Hajj obligations, and Muslims around the world will be getting ready and preparing for the exciting holiday. So, how can we make this Eid one that embodies the tradition of our beloved Prophets?
Although there aren't obligatory actions we as Muslims need to carry out, there are traditions we can cultivate and pass on to our children. Traditions that can bring our families together, and impress lasting memories for our children.
Ways to Carry out Tradition
1. Build bonds with your family by engaging in activities, story-telling, and praising Allah.
Eid is a time to celebrate, take the time to plan out all three days. Create memories that can easily be replicated every Eid.
Engage by attending events that cater to the whole family. (e.g., bbq, amusement parks, picnics, local events)
- Gather your family together and revisit the story of Abraham (peace be upon him) and it's significance to Hajj. Recite the verses of Qur'an, and discuss how much trust Abraham (peace be upon him) had in Allah.
Qur'an Jewel
"And We made the House (Kabah) a resort for people, saying, 'Take the spot where Abraham stood as your place of prayer.' We commanded Abraham and Ishmael: 'Purify My House for those who walk round it, those who stay there, and those who bow and prostrate themselves in worship.'' (2:125)
- Praise Allah the way the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did on the way to Eid Prayers. Chanting the Takbeerat builds excitement and allows the whole family to praise Allah together, while reviving a sunnah.
2. Resolve feuds between your spouse and family.
Having conflict with family whether it be a fight with your siblings, an argument with your spouse, or a disagreement with in-laws can have an impact spiritually during the times we should be celebrating. During Eid we especially feel the void of their presence.
- Take the first step towards repairing your relationships.
- Be mindful that making the first move doesn't mean you have accepted defeat.
- Understand that initiating an open conversation will be the start to the healing process and not a quick fix. Get advice about what steps you can take.
Qur'an Jewel
"People, be mindful of your Lord, who created you from a single soul, and from it created its mate, and from the pair of them spread countless men and women far and wide; be mindful of God, in whose name you make requests of one another. Beware of severing the ties of kinship: God is always watching over you." (4:1)
3. Donate to those in need
The two Eids are celebrated relatively the same, but the significance of Eid-al-Adha lies within the sacrifice of Abraham (peace be upon him). When Abraham (peace be upon him) made the undoubted decision to sacrifice his beloved son, Allah then celebrated his sacrifice. Throughout our Hajj journey we are constantly reminded of the ultimate trust he had towards The Almighty. From the 10th till the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah the pilgrims partake in activities which directly correlate with the actions of Abraham (peace be upon him) and his righteous family members. One particular ritual is to sacrifice an animal and donate the meat to those in need.
If you have the opportunity, learn how you can carry out a sacrifice in accordance to the guidelines of Allah . This will connect you spiritually to the blessings Allah provides for us. It brings upon an attitude of gratitude.
- Distribute the meat to those in need.
- Another option is to donate money for a zabiha
- Give gifts as a donation without mentioning that it's charity. As a gift you can also donate services that bring people closer to Allah. Learn more
May this Eid-al-Adha bring us closer to our families, to Allah, and grant us the status of the pilgrims. Praying for a very blessed Eid for you and your families. EID MUBRAK!