On Friday 1st September, Muslims in Scotland and all around the world will gather to celebrate Eid ul-Adha which marks the end of the Hajj – the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. All at OLM extend our warmest good wishes to our Muslim families on this very special occasion which we have also recognised with special assemblies in school. We also wish a safe journey back for those performing Hajj this year. Eid Mubarak!
Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice or the Greater Eid, is an opportunity for prayer, forgiveness and celebration. The day commences with morning prayers in the Mosque with families gathering later to share a celebratory meal, exchange greetings and gifts, reflect on lessons of sacrifice and show compassion to those in need.
It honours the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismael (Ishmael) as an act of submission to God’s command. As sacrifice is part of the tradition, Muslims all over the world who can afford it arrange for a sheep or similar animal to be sacrificed (through their local butcher) as a reminder of Ibrahim’s obedience. The meat is then divided into three equal shares and distributed among family, friends and the poor.
Our bilingual support assistant Ms Shariff is away performing Hajj this year and we look forward to hearing about her journey on her return.