Eid al-Adha is a remarkable holiday widely celebrated in Brunei. Known also as the 'Feast of Sacrifice', this observance is one of the two major Islamic holidays, with the other being Eid al-Fitr. Brunei, a small nation on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, is predominantly Islamic and hence recognises the significant implications of this holiday. The event commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's unwavering faith and readiness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, in the end, God provided a lamb for the sacrifice instead.
The celebration of Eid al-Adha in Brunei is a grand one. The day starts with communal prayer at the mosque, followed by the sacrificing of an animal, typically a sheep, cow, or goat. This act of sacrifice, referred to as 'Qurbani,' distinctly symbolises the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his own son. The meat from the sacrifice is then distributed amongst family, friends, and the underprivileged. This distribution is not merely a tradition but a mandatory act known as 'Sadaqah', re-emphasizing the importance of charity in the Islamic community.
Eid al-Adha is more than just a time of sacrifice in Brunei; it's a period of unity, love, and sharing. Families and friends come together to celebrate, partaking in a festive meal consisting of the sacrificed meat and traditional Bruneian delicacies. Many also visit the graves of their deceased loved ones, a practice signifying respect and remembrance. Public festivities often include fun-filled activities and games for all ages. As a public holiday, it provides an opportunity for everyone to pause and reflect on the deeper spiritual lessons inherent in the tradition.