Another Eid Celebrations Amid COVID-19 Period

Eid al-Adha ‘Feast of the Sacrifice’, also called Eid Qurban, also known as Eid al-Kabir in Nigeria is the second of two Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide each year (the first being Eid al-Fitr), and considered the holier of the two. It honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Prophet Ismail (Ismael) as an act of obedience to God’s command. But, before Ibrahim could sacrifice his son, God provided a lamb to sacrifice instead. In commemoration of this intervention, an animal, usually a sheep, is sacrificed ritually and divided into three parts. One share is given to the poor and needy, another is kept for home, and the third is given to relatives.

In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic calendar, and lasts for four days. This important day is only observed worldwide a day after Muslim pilgrims have climbed Arafat, which normally takes place on the 9th day of Dhul al-Hijjah.

Both Eid, namely Eid al-Kabir (Big Sallah) and Eid al-Fitr (Small Sallah) are important periods in the life of all Muslim men and women. However, this Eid, just like the first one which took place 70 days ago will be celebrated amid COVID-19 pandemic. The usual visitation amongst family and friends will be limited due to the public gathering restriction that is still in place. In such a period, people are advised to take personal responsibility for their health everywhere they are, eat moderately to avoid stomach upset, and ultimately share the joy with neighbors and the needy.