Life in Islamabad Eid al-Adha - Feast of Sacrifice

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Jul 31

Australian Photographer in Pakistan

Today is Eid al-Adha, the feast of sacrifice or the Greater Eid, that falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Muslim calendar.

For the last couple of weeks animal markets have suddenly appeared all over Islamabad. As well as traditional animal markets, temporary, smaller markets appear in vacant lots and alongside roads. The markets have goats, sheep, cows and camels and everything you need from food to decorations. These animals will be sacrificed on Eid al-Adha. It is estimated that across Pakistan between 8 to 10 million animals will be sacrificed over this holy day.

If you know your Quran or Bible you will know the story of Abraham (Ibrahim) and Isaac (Ismael). If you don’t then here is a quick summary. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham was willing to follow God’s commands but before he sacrificed his son God provided a ram for Abraham to sacrifice in Isaac’s place. That is why on Eid al-Adha a sheep (or goat, or cow or camel) is sacrificed. The meat is then divided into three parts: one for the poor, one for relatives and one for home.

Wishing you all Eid al-Adha Mubarak - Blessed Feast