Eid Al-Adha 101
What is Eid Al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th day of the twelfth month in the lunar calendar. It is “the festival of sacrifice”, a celebration lasting up to 4 days that marks the culmination of Hajj (an annual pilgrimage to Mecca) and Prophet Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) sacrifice for the sake of God.
How is Eid Al-Adha Celebrated?
Every year during Eid al-Adha, Muslims take part in the practice of Qurbani (sacrifice) which refers to sacrificing an animal - such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel - and sharing the meat with the most vulnerable, serving as both a form of charity and a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to God. Like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha is also commemorated by a morning prayer service on the first day of the holiday. During the festival, Muslims dress in their best clothes, gather with family and friends, give gifts to one another, and eat many sweets.
How Can I Support My Muslim Colleagues on Eid Al-Adha?
As Eid al-Adha falls on a different date every year, time-off requests will differ annually. Be inclusive of colleagues who will need time off to celebrate.
Avoid asking for work-related requests while your colleagues are observing.
Ensure everyone is aware of Eid al-Adha by including an acknowledgement of the festival via work communications.
Don’t make assumptions. Due to cultural or personal reasons, not all of your Muslim colleagues will be observing the holiday in the same way.
Encourage Eid al-Adha related celebrations in the workplace, such as decorating or putting up posters.
Wish them a blessed Eid Mubarak! This is the term Muslims use as a celebratory greeting during Eid, with the literal translation being “Blessed festival/Feast”.
