Eid-al-Adha 2023: Dhul Hijjah Begins As Moon Sighted; Bakrid on June 29

Eid al-Adha 2023, also known (also known as Bakra Eid, Bakrid, Bakhreid, Eid al-Adha, Eid Qurban, Qurban Bayarami or the Feast of Sacrifice), is one of the two biggest festivals in Islam, the other being Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Is mael)as an act of obedience to God.

It is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. The date of Eid al-Adha varies each year, as it is based on the lunar calendar.

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has announced that the first day of Dhul Hijjah will be Monday, 19 June, 2023. Therefore, the Eid-ul-Adha will be on 29 June, 2023.

Based on the moon sighting, Eid al-Adha 2023 will be celebrated on June 28 in UAE, US, Canada, Oman and Saudi Arabia. In Indonesia, Malaysia and UK, the festival shall fall on June 29.

Why is Bakrid celebrated?

During Bakra Eid, Muslims observe various rituals, including congregational prayers, the sacrifice of an animal (usually a goat, sheep, or cow), and the distribution of meat to the less fortunate.

The central ritual of Bakrid involves the sacrifice of an animal, usually a goat, sheep, or cow, which represents Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate.

The act of sacrifice symbolizes devotion, selflessness, and the sharing of blessings with others.

Families and communities come together to partake in feasts, exchange greetings, and engage in acts of charity. It is also an occasion for Muslims to strengthen their bonds with God and their fellow believers.