Grand Mufti Confirms Eid-ul-Adha Date: Crescent Sighted in Ramban, J&K

19-06-2023 : Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, has commenced in Jammu and Kashmir with the sighting of the crescent moon in Ramban district’s Chenab Valley. According to the Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Nasir-ul-Islam, this signifies that Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakr-e-Eid, will be celebrated on June 29, 2023.

Eid-ul-Adha holds significant importance as it commemorates the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his unwavering devotion to Allah. The story revolves around Prophet Ibrahim’s recurring dream in which he saw himself sacrificing his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (AS), as a fulfillment of Allah’s wishes. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) shared his dream with his son, who, being equally devoted to Allah, agreed to comply with His command.

The devil, in an attempt to dissuade Prophet Ibrahim (AS), tempted him and discouraged him from sacrificing his son. However, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) remained steadfast in his faith and rejected the devil’s temptations. Witnessing Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering devotion, Allah intervened and sent the Archangel Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) with a sheep to be sacrificed instead of Prophet Ismail (AS).

This divine intervention demonstrated that Allah was pleased with Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and accepted his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice. Since then, the act of sacrificing an animal has become an integral part of Eid-ul-Adha celebrations. It serves as a symbol of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail’s love for Allah and signifies one’s readiness to sacrifice what they hold dear for the sake of Allah.

During Eid-ul-Adha, Muslims around the world perform the ritual of Qurbani, which involves sacrificing an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. The meat of the sacrificed animal is then distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate, emphasizing the importance of sharing and generosity.

The Grand Mufti emphasized that those intending to perform Qurbani should adhere to the practice of not trimming their hair or nails until the actual sacrifice is made on the designated day of Eid-ul-Adha. This practice is based on well-established sayings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), known as Ahadith, which provide guidance to Muslims regarding religious practices.

Eid-ul-Adha holds immense significance for the Muslim community, as it not only commemorates a pivotal event in the lives of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS) but also serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, sacrifice, and obedience to Allah’s commands. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and coming together with loved ones to celebrate and strengthen the bonds of community and faith.