On 10 Dhu al-Hijjah, according to the Islamic calendar, following the completion of the Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca as one of the five pillars of Islam), Muslims throughout the world celebrate Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice).
Unlike Eid al-Fitr which is celebrated to signify the achievement of devout Muslims undergoing a complete one month self-purification through fasting, Eid al-Adha is observed in commemoration with the trial faced by Prophet Ibrahim (also known as Abraham) whom Allah had commanded to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to Him. Being faithful and devoted to Allah Almighty, both father and son submitted to God’s Will unhesitantly. As he was ready to execute the assigned mission, Allah sent Angel Jibril (Gabriel) to replace Ismail with a ram which Prophet Ibrahim ultimately sacrificed.
What Prophet Ibrahim had shown is an unmatched example in the annals of religion of one’s love for God superceding his love for anyone else, even his own progeny. The Quran recorded this extraordinary story of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice in the following surah al-Nahl, verse 120-122 :
Abraham was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to Allah, (and) true in Faith, and he was not of the polytheists. He showed his gratitude for the favours of Allah, who chose him, and guided him to a Straight Way. And We gave him Good in this world, and he will be, in the Hereafter, in the ranks of the Righteous.(Quran, 16:120-122)
In remembrance of this great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, during the celebration of Eid al-Adha – which started on 10 Dhu al-Hijjah agreeing with 12 September 2016 and lasting for three days, Muslims slaughter livestock such as camel, sheep and goat, all in the name of Allah. It is worth to note that they can give away all or at least two-thirds of the meat to others especially the poor while only one-third is kept for family consumption.
In Islam, behind any story mentioned in the Quran lies inherent wisdom for men of undertanding (Ulul al-Bab). Likewise, behind any divine command exists an objective(s) that Allah, the Lawgiver intends man to seek.
In the context of the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice and animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha; what matters is that the element of taqwa (piety or God’s consciousness). To this end, God clearly mentions in surah al-Hajj, verse 37 :
It is not their meat nor their blood, that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him. He has thus made them subject to you, that you may glorify Allah for His Guidance to you and proclaim the good news to all who do right to others. (Quran, 22:37)
The same wisdom is evinced in the Hajj. It is a worship of a lifetime which is not only time consuming but also demands financial, physical and mental capabilities. What is more challenging, the Hajj requires readiness of the pilgrim to leave behind his normal life and routine. This is also a form of sacrifice manifesting willingness of resolute Muslims to free themselves from the pleasures of everyday living in response to the call of Allah. Ultimately, the pilgrims elevate themselves to the realm of spirituality.
The matter discussed above reflects common underlying constructs namely compliance, obedience and submission to Allah’s Will. However, all these elements seem to be diminishing with the so-called “progress” of man in every area of life. This is evident with the proliferation of hedonism and individualism which eventually contribute to moral decadence, social disorder and corrupt practices among Muslims across geographical boundaries.
We must admit that our lives are full of trials and tribulations. They could take in many forms. Besides pain and suffering, they could be in the form of strong affection for worldly pleasures and enjoyments. In surah Aali Imran, Allah says to the effect :
Beautified for mankind is love of the joys (that come) from women and offspring; and stored-up heaps of gold and silver, and horses branded (with their mark), and cattle and land. That is comfort of the life of the world. Allah! With Him is a more excellent abode. (Quran, 3:14)
For each and every test, the way we react and respond demontrate our measure of being self aware and conscious of God. If we comply and abide by the rules of behaviour prescribed by Him, then the test comes as occasions for self-development and strengthened awareness of the Creator (Mirakhor, 2012).
It is perhaps a utopic dream to expect that we could totally emulate the exemplary qualities shown by Prophet Ibrahim. Nevertheless, it is, however inspirational and stands as a symbol of adherence and commitment of an individual to submit wholeheartedly to God’s Commands seeking His Pleasures.
Suffice to say that devotion to God and submitting to His Rules is the key to success in the pursuit of falah (success / well-being in this life and the next). The challenge for Muslims at present is to find ways to internalise the philosophy behind Prophet Ibrahim’s story, the spirit of the Hajj and Eid al-Adha; and become God-conscious Muslims who abide by His Laws and adopt righteousness in every sphere of life.
