New Delhi

On the day of Eid al-Adha, Muslims go out of their homes, gather at their places of worship and interact with other people. Eid al-Adha is the second major Muslim festival after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.

Muslims believe Prophet Ibrahim was tested by Allah, who commanded him to sacrifice his first-born son, Ismail. Abraham, a great believer in God was prepared to submit to the command. He also told Ismail about his intention. Ismail agreed to the wish of his father.

Miraculously just when he was about to sacrifice Ismail, Allah stayed his hand. Instead, God Almighty sent his angels and asked him to sacrifice a goat instead of his son. Since that day Eid al-Adha was celebrated. It is a symbolic reminder of what occurred 4,000 years ago; it demonstrates that the sacrifice of a small group of people can create a new beginning for all of humankind, said Islamic scholar Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Animal sacrifice is just one part of it but the festival largely symbolic of sacrifices we can make for mankind.

Islamic scholar Maulana Wahiduddin Khan

Eid is an occasion of joy and peace, where people celebrate with their families, they let go of their past grudges and make meaningful connections with one another. Around the world, Eid traditions and festivities vary in countries, which have their unique cultural approaches to this festival.

This annual festival falls on the 10th day of Dul Hijjah, the 12th and the last month of the Muslim lunar calendar.