Sacrifice and Humility: The Real Philosophy of Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds immense significance in the Islamic calendar. This religious event commemorates the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) to Allah. According to Islamic traditions, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) was willing to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (A.S.), in submission to Allah's command. However, Allah, in His infinite mercy, replaced Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) with a ram, signifying that it is the spirit of sacrifice and obedience that is valued, not the act itself. In today's world, the true essence of this sacrifice seems to be overshadowed by ostentation and social competition.

The real philosophy of sacrifice in Islam is deeply rooted in submission to Allah's will, empathy for the less fortunate, and self-purification. Sacrifice, or Qurbani, is not merely about the physical act of slaughtering an animal but about the willingness to give up something valuable for the sake of Allah. This act symbolizes our readiness to renounce worldly attachments and exhibit compassion towards those in need. In essence, the ritual of Qurbani is designed to nurture a sense of humility, gratitude, and generosity. It is a means to purify one’s soul, demonstrate selflessness, and reaffirm one's commitment to Islamic principles. By distributing the meat to the poor and needy, the act of sacrifice also serves to bridge the gap between the affluent and the less fortunate, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

At its core, Eid al-Adha is a reminder of the importance of obedience to Allah's commands. Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his beloved son underscores the value of absolute faith and submission to divine will. This unwavering devotion is what Muslims are encouraged to emulate. The act of Qurbani is a practical manifestation of this obedience, reminding believers of their duty to prioritize Allah's commands over their desires and material possessions.

Unfortunately, the contemporary observance of Qurbani often deviates from its intended spirit. The sacrifice, which is meant to be an act of humility and piety, has in many instances become a display of wealth and social status. The number of animals sacrificed, the price of the livestock, and the grandeur of the event are often flaunted, undermining the spiritual essence of the practice. Social media platforms are inundated with posts boasting about the number and cost of the sacrificial animals, reducing a profound act of worship to a competition of affluence and showmanship.

This shift towards materialism and vanity is particularly disheartening in an era where many people are struggling to make ends meet. The middle class, already burdened by inflation and economic hardships, feels pressured to partake in this ostentatious display, often at the cost of their financial stability. The true essence of sacrifice – humility, obedience, and empathy – is lost in the quest for social validation.

One of the fundamental objectives of Qurbani is to ensure that the less fortunate can partake in the blessings of Eid. Traditionally, the meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. However, this noble practice is often neglected. Instead of reaching out to those who rarely have the luxury of consuming meat, the distribution is frequently limited to close relatives and friends who themselves have performed the sacrifice. This practice contradicts the very spirit of Qurbani. It is imperative to remember that the sacrifice is not about storing meat in freezers for personal consumption but about sharing blessings with those who are truly in need. In a society where many cannot afford meat throughout the year, the sacrificial meat should be prioritized for the underprivileged, thus fulfilling the true purpose of this ritual.

To revive the true spirit of Eid al-Adha, Muslims need to reflect on the underlying principles of sacrifice and obedience. It is essential to shift the focus from social validation to sincere devotion and compassion. Here are some steps to realign with the true philosophy of Qurbani: educate and raise awareness, encourage discussions and educational programs that highlight the spiritual significance of Qurbani and the importance of distributing meat to the needy; organize community efforts to ensure that sacrificial meat reaches those who cannot afford it, thereby fostering a sense of unity and compassion; emphasize the importance of simplicity in performing Qurbani, avoid publicizing the act and focus on the spiritual fulfillment it brings; and provide financial support or collective arrangements for those who wish to perform Qurbani but are constrained by economic challenges.

In conclusion, Eid al-Adha offers an opportunity for Muslims to renew their faith, demonstrate obedience to Allah, and extend kindness to the less fortunate. By embracing the true spirit of sacrifice, we can transform this sacred occasion into a meaningful expression of devotion and compassion, aligning with the profound teachings of Islam.