Eid ul-Adha, also known as Eid al-Adha or Eid ul-Azha, is a significant Islamic festival commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. This joyous occasion emphasizes faith and submission to the divine will. The central ritual involves sacrificing an animal, symbolizing Ibrahim’s devotion. The festival includes congregational prayers, family gatherings, and the distribution of meat to the less fortunate. Acts of charity and cultural traditions enhance the festivities, promoting unity and generosity. Eid ul-Adha serves as a reminder of sacrifice, compassion, and the importance of strengthening familial and community bonds in the Islamic faith.
London is a diverse and multicultural city with a significant Muslim population. According to estimates from that time, there were around 1.3 million Muslims in Greater London, comprising approximately 12.4% of the city’s total population.
Eid ul-Adha, celebrated by the Muslim community in London, entails a range of customs and traditions. Muslims gather in mosques or designated prayer areas to perform congregational prayers, with the East London Mosque hosting a well-known gathering. Dressed in their finest attire, individuals exchange greetings, embracing the spirit of the festival by saying “Eid Mubarak.” Some Muslims engage in Qurbani, sacrificing animals and distributing the meat among family, friends, and the less fortunate. Acts of charity are prevalent during this time, as people donate to organizations assisting those in need. Families and friends come together for feasts, while community events offer cultural performances and entertainment.
In London, Muslims typically slaughter their animals for Eid ul-Adha, also known as Eid al-Adha or Eid ul-Azha, at designated slaughterhouses or licensed premises. These locations ensure that the slaughtering process is carried out in compliance with the regulations and standards of food safety and animal welfare set by the local authorities. The slaughterhouses are equipped with facilities and trained personnel to perform the sacrificial rituals according to Islamic requirements. The meat obtained from the slaughtered animals is then distributed among family, friends, and the needy, following the traditions of the festival.
To book Qurbani in England, follow these steps. Begin by researching reputable Islamic organizations or charities in your local area that offer Qurbani services. Contact them via phone, email, or their website to inquire about availability and prices. Discuss the options they provide for animal type and shares. Once you’ve gathered the necessary information, proceed with making the booking by filling out any required forms or making an online payment. Pay attention to any instructions provided by the organization regarding the date, time, and location of the Qurbani. On the day of Eid ul-Adha, attend the designated location or follow instructions to collect your share of the meat.
Eid-al Adha duration varies depending on moon sightings. In the UK, Eid-al Adha 2023 is expected to fall on Wednesday, 28th June 2023. Typically, Eid-al Adha is celebrated for a span of three days.