Muslims around the world observe Eid al-Adha festival today

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Eid al-Adha Celebrations Underway as Hajj Pilgrimage Continues

Over 1.7 million Muslims have gathered in Saudi Arabia to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which coincides with the sacred holiday Eid al-Adha. The festival marks the “Festival of Sacrifice” and falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

This year’s celebrations take place amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East, including a conflict between Israel and Iran. In Gaza, many families are marking Eid in makeshift shelters due to displacement caused by the Israeli offensive. Despite these challenges, millions of pilgrims have converged on Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage.

On Tuesday, pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his final sermon. The following night, they spent time outdoors at Muzdalifah, collecting pebbles for a symbolic stoning ceremony in Mina. After completing the stoning ritual, pilgrims returned to Mecca for a final circumambulation of the Kaaba.

Eid al-Adha commemorates an Islamic story about Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God. According to tradition, God spared the boy and replaced him with a ram. The day is marked by the sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, or cow, followed by the distribution of its meat among family members, neighbors, and those in need.

The festival’s themes of faith, charity, and community are reflected in these acts of devotion and generosity.

Source: Al Jazeera