Celebrations in Islam
Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr are two significant celebrations in Islam. Eid al-Fitr follows the month of Ramadan, marked by fasting, while Eid al-Adha comes after the pilgrimage, or Hajj. Eid al-Adha carries particular etiquettes that Muslims are encouraged to observe.
Etiquettes of Eid al-Adha
Practices Before the Day of Eid
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) established several recommended practices and etiquettes to be observed prior to Eid, serving to prepare both the individual and the community for this festive occasion. Among these practices are the following:
- Avoiding cutting hair or nails for those intending to offer a sacrifice.
This is applicable from the beginning of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, as stated by the Prophet (peace be upon him): “When you see the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah and intend to offer a sacrifice, let him refrain from cutting his hair and nails.”
- Engaging in unrestricted Takbeer (praising Allah).
This should be performed from the sighting of the lunar crescent of Dhul-Hijjah until sunset on the last day of Tashreeq. It is encouraged to recite it in markets, streets, and any appropriate place.
- Fasting on the Day of Arafah.
This day holds significant reward, as indicated by the Prophet (peace be upon him) who said: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah is a means for Allah to expiate the sins of the year before it and the year after it, and fasting on the Day of Ashura also leads to the expiation of sins of the preceding year.”
Practices on the Day of Eid
There are certain recommended practices specific to the Day of Eid al-Adha that attendees should strive to observe:
- Muslims should not eat anything until returning from the Eid prayer.
- It is preferred to perform the Eid prayer in open areas instead of inside mosques.
- Arriving early to the Eid prayer site is encouraged.
- If possible, one should walk to the prayer ground rather than ride.
- Dressing in one’s best attire and applying pleasant fragrances to honor the gathering of Muslims on Eid.
- Taking a different route to and from the Eid prayer site.
This is in accordance with the behavior of the Prophet (peace be upon him), who would often take a different route, allowing him to be a witness, along with the angels, to both paths traveled.
- Offering a sacrifice (Qurbani).
This act stands as one of the most significant offerings on the day of sacrifice and is an essential Sunnah of the Eid celebration.
- Participating in Takbeer.
This practice stems from Allah’s instruction in the Quran: “And remember Allah during a number of days.” Takbeer is recommended on the first day of Eid al-Adha and in the three days following it, where Muslims say: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillah al-hamd.”
- Providing for family members without extravagance.
An important aspect of Eid is to ensure family members feel joy and happiness through increased spending on food, clothing, and sweets, thereby distinguishing this religious occasion—Eid al-Adha—from other days of the year.
- Expressing joy and happiness.
Muslims should demonstrate joy through affection, kindness, and warmth towards their families on this day. Eid is a time for showcasing happiness and honoring the rituals ordained by Allah. Therefore, it is essential to avoid causing sorrow or using the occasion to spark conflicts among family members.