By Arif Kudroli,
Mangalore: Muslim Fraternity offered prayers at mosques and specially erected prayer centres across the city and suburbs, on the occasion of Eid Al Adha (Bakreid). A large congregation gathered at the Jamia Masjid, Kudroli, here on October 16.
Bakrid (Eid Al Adha) – is a festival of supreme sacrifice, to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail on God’s command.
According to Muslim belief, it was a test to Ibrahim’s faith, and Allah commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son. Without a second thought Ibrahim agreed to do although it was a difficult task, he blindfolded himself before putting Ismail on the altar at the mount of Mina near Makkah.
After performing the act, he removed his blindfold, at that time he saw his son standing in front of him, alive and instead of his son, he saw on the altar a slaughtered lamb. To commemorate this incident, Muslim brethren Sacrifice goats on Bakr-Eid. This sacrifice by Ibrahim speaks of the true spirit of sacrifice of the Muslims. The same spirit has been continued and Muslims find it in the celebration of Bakrid. Prophet Mohammed in his message has stated that neither the flesh or blood or any other material will reach God in the heavens, what reaches him is love, faith and spirit of sacrifice.
Significance of Bakri Eid:
There is a fascinating story that states the significance of Bakri Eid. Once, Allah challenged Prophet Ibrahim, the friend of Allah and the father of Prophets. Ibrahim had to prove his faith in Allah. Allah asked him to sacrifice the dearest and nearest one in his life. Ibrahim decided to take up the challenge and decided to sacrifice his son Ismail.
Ibrahim’s faith in Allah:
His love towards his son was as strong as his faith in Allah. Though his heart went numb, he put his son on the altar at the mount of Mina near Mecca. It was impossible to see his son dying in front of his eyes. He could not imagine slaying his own child but he could not deny the order of higher power.
Ibrahim sacrifices his son:
He closed his eyes and raised the sharp sword. Reciting Allah’s name he divided the head from the body. He opened his eyes and could not believe on his senses. His son Ismail was standing healthy and hearty in front of his eyes. A dead ram with his head apart was lying in the pool of blood. Ibrahim emerged as a winner as he accepted god’s challenge with complete faith.
Power of Allah and Quran:
Since then people ardently believe in the mercy of Allah and in the authenticity of Quran. They devotionally sacrifice a ram on Eid-Ul-Zuha. On the holy occasion of Eid-Ul-Zuha, prayers are offered by Muslims and animals are sacrificed to show faith and sincerity towards Islam. The festival also signifies the Ibrahim’s belief in almighty.
On the occasion of Bakri Eid, Muslims sacrifice animals (goat or ox or Camel or Cow) in admiration of prophet Ibrahim’s faith in Allah. This sacrifice is known as qurbani. A Muslim, who performs slaughter, makes three portions of the meat. He shares the meat with his fellow beings. One third part of the meat is distributed amongst the poor. One third part of the meat is for family and friends of the person who bought the animal. The last third part is for the household of the butcher. For Muslims Bakri Eid is the time to meet relatives, to enjoy feasts, and to seek Allah’s blessings.