Eid Ul Adha (Bakra Eid) 2024: Date, Significance, Key Rituals

Eid Ul Adha, also known as Bakra Eid, is one of the most significant festivals in Islam. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith and is one of the two holiest occasions celebrated by Muslims worldwide. The festival involves special prayers in mosques and the ritual slaughtering of livestock such as goats and sheep.

Eid Ul Adha 2024 Date

According to various media reports, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called on all Muslims in the Kingdom to participate in the sighting of the crescent moon of the Arabic month Dhu Al Hijjah this evening.

Eid Ul Adha falls on the 10th of Dhu Al Hijjah. If the moon is spotted on June 6, Dhu Al Hijjah will begin on June 7, with Arafah Day on June 15 (Dhu Al Hijjah 9) and Eid Ul Adha on June 16 (Dhu Al Hijjah 10).

If the moon is not spotted on June 6, Dhu Al Hijjah will begin on June 8. Arafah Day will be on June 16 (Dhu Al Hijjah 9), and Eid Ul Adha will be on June 17 (Dhu Al Hijjah 10).

Significance of Eid Ul Adha

Eid Ul Adha, meaning “Festival of Sacrifice,” honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. The festival emphasizes the importance of faith, obedience, and sacrifice.

Key Rituals

• Special Prayers: Muslims gather in mosques to offer special prayers.
• Sacrificial Slaughter: Livestock such as goats and sheep are slaughtered to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice.
• Arafah Day: The second day of the Hajj pilgrimage, marked by Arafah Day, falls on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah. This day is followed by Eid Ul Adha celebrations.

Eid Ul Adha is a time for sharing meals with family, friends, and those less fortunate, reinforcing the values of charity and community.