Thousands of Muslim families around Fiji are preparing to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, the second most significant festival in Islam, which symbolises sacrifice, faith and devotion to Allah.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Mufti Shaizad Ali says Eid-ul-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (AS), in obedience to Allah’s command.
Ali shares that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by Allah in a vision to sacrifice that which was most beloved to him as a test of faith adding he had offered sacrifices, including animals such as camels, in devotion to Allah, but later understood that the true test was the willingness to surrender what he loved most.
He says Prophet Ibrahim (AS) realised that his son, Prophet Ismail (AS), was the most precious blessing in his life and in order to complete submission to Allah’s command, he shares the matter with his son, who also responded with obedience and acceptance of Allah’s will.
It is narrated in Islamic tradition that both father and son prepared themselves to fulfil the command of Allah without hesitation, demonstrating complete trust, devotion, and submission to the Creator.
However, as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) proceeded with the sacrifice, Allah, in His mercy, replaced Prophet Ismail (AS) with a ram from heaven, signifying that the true purpose of the test had been fulfilled.
Mufti Ali says the act of Qurbani, or sacrifice, later became a teaching passed down to Muslims through Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
He highlights that Eid-ul-Adha is not only about sacrificing livestock, but also about sincerity, obedience and devotion to Allah.
Ali says despite the rising cost of living and increasing livestock prices this year, many Muslims continue to make sacrifices for the sake of Allah as an important act of worship.
He stresses that Eid-ul-Adha teaches Muslims the importance of sacrifice, faith, compassion and gratitude, while also encouraging families to share meat with relatives, neighbours and those in need.
Muslims around the country are expected to gather for special Eid prayers this Thursday morning in their respective mosques.
