Embracing the spirit of sacrifice this Eid-ul-Azha
Eid-ul-Azha, one of the most sacred festivals in Islam, embodies the profound lesson of devotion and sacrifice. At its heart lies the commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering obedience to Allah, who was commanded to sacrifice his dearest possession — his son Ismail (AS). At the moment of truth, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, thus establishing the tradition of qurbani that millions of Muslims continue to honour today.
This year, like every other, millions of pilgrims from across the world have gathered in Arafat, Makkah, to perform Hajj — one of the five pillars of Islam. Among them are 87,000 pilgrims from Bangladesh. For those not undertaking the pilgrimage, Eid-ul-Azha remains an occasion of deep spiritual reflection and charitable giving, most tangibly expressed through the sacrifice of livestock and the distribution of meat among the less fortunate.
In a country where many cannot afford animal protein throughout the year, the sharing of sacrificial meat plays a crucial role in addressing nutritional needs. It is very important that during this distribution, no deserving individual is overlooked. The true spirit of Eid lies in ensuring inclusion, compassion, and dignity for all.
Equally important is the responsibility of maintaining environmental hygiene during the festival. While countries like Saudi Arabia enforce strict regulations on designated slaughter areas, Bangladesh has yet to implement similar practices widely. Local government bodies must act efficiently, and citizens must cooperate to ensure the timely disposal of waste and the proper handling of hides, thereby preventing pollution and health hazards.
Eid-ul-Azha also brings significant economic benefits. Bangladeshi farmers rear livestock all year round in anticipation of this season, reducing reliance on imported cattle and curbing cross-border smuggling. The leather industry, too, stands to gain if sacrificial hides are properly preserved and channelled into the formal sector. Government support in promoting sustainable investment in leather processing facilities could unlock this sector’s full potential.
However, amid the global festivities, our hearts remain heavy for the people of Palestine. This year, not a single resident from besieged Gaza could perform Hajj. With over 55,000 lives lost to Israeli aggression, including 2 million people displaced since last October, the international community’s calls for peace remain unmet. We extend our unwavering solidarity to the people of Palestine.
May the message of sacrifice, compassion, and unity echo in every home. Eid Mubarak to all our readers, contributors, clients, vendors, and well-wishers!