This is how long Eid al-Adha lasts - and how to wish someone a happy Eid

Muslims celebrate with feasts and prayers with family, friends and the community (Photo: Shutterstock)Muslims celebrate with feasts and prayers with family, friends and the community (Photo: Shutterstock)
Muslims celebrate with feasts and prayers with family, friends and the community (Photo: Shutterstock)

The celebration of Eid al-Adha began on Thursday 30 July 2020, with millions of Muslims marking the annual Festival of Sacrifice all over the world.

The religious festival of Islam is second of two Eid observances, with the first, Eid al-Fitr, being observed in May to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

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As celebrations continue into August, here’s what you need to know about the festival.

What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha is known as the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, and commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to demonstrate his devotion to Allah.

According to the Quran, Allah replaced Ismail with a lamb at the last moment, just as Ibrahim was about to perform the sacrifice, thereby sparing his son’s life.

How long does Eid al-Adha last?

Eid al-Adha lasts for five days, with this year’s festival celebrated from 30 July to 3 August.

How is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

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In commemoration of Ibrahim’s dedication to God, Muslims celebrate with feasts and prayers with family, friends and the wider community. The festival encourages followers of the faith to be thankful for their loved ones and to repent any past sins so they can learn for the future.

It is customary on Eid al-Adha to give money to charity, while gifts will also be given to children.

Muslims will spend the occasion visiting relatives and friends, and they will share meals together, as well as prayers. In some countries, it is tradition to sacrifice an animal and share the meat between the poor, immediate family, and relatives for the feast.

Eid al-Adha also coincides with Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, in Saudi Arabia.

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However, while some Muslims will make the journey to Mecca to mark the occasion, others will celebrate in their local mosque.

How do I wish someone a happy Eid?

Much like other religious celebrations, it is customary to send messages and well wishes to family and friends during Eid al-Adha.

To wish someone a happy Eid al-Adha, you can simply say “Eid Mubarak”, which means you are wishing them a “blessed Eid.”

Here are some other well wishes and greetings you can express during the festival:

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"May the divine blessings of Allah bring you hope, faith, and joy on Eid al-Adha and forever. Happy Eid al-Adha 2020!”

"May the magic of this Eid bring lots of happiness in your life and may you celebrate it with all your close friends and may it fill your heart with wonders. Eid Mubarak!"

"May the divine blessings of Allah bring you hope, faith and joy on Eid al-Adha and forever. Happy Eid al-Adha!"

“May Allah’s blessings be with you today and always. Eid al-Adha Mubarak!

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“In every shared smile and laughter; In every silent prayer answered; In every opportunity that comes your way – may Allah bless you immensely! Eid Mubarak!”

“Wishing that your prayers are answered and your sacrifices appreciated by the almighty. Eid Mubarak!”

“Sending you warm wishes on Eid and wishing that it brings your way ever joys and happiness. Remember me in your prayers.”

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