Eid al-Adha, also known as the 'Feast of Sacrifice,' is one of the most significant holidays in Algeria, deeply rooted in the Islamic culture of the country. This sacred festival commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Christian and Jewish traditions) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It coincides with the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and marks a time of communal prayer, feasting, and giving to the poor and needy.
In Algeria, similar to other Islamic-majority nations, Eid al-Adha commences with a ritual animal sacrifice, symbolizing the ram God provided as a substitute for Ibrahim's son. This ritual, conducted by the head of each family, is underscored by blessings and prayers. The animal, mainly a sheep or goat, is divided into portions. Typically, a third of the meat is retained by the family, another third is given to relatives and friends, and the remaining third is distributed to the less fortunate.
During Eid al-Adha in Algeria, major cities and towns come alive with special prayers in mosques, feasting, and jubilant celebrations. The celebratory meals mostly include traditional Algerian dishes prepared with the sacrificial meat. Families and friends gather together to enjoy the feast, exchange gifts, and share merriment. It is also a time of giving and solidarity when the inhabitants contribute to charitable acts and extend help to those in need. Despite the significant festive nature of the occasion, it remains a deeply spiritual time for Algerians, reflecting on the profound sacrifice and faith of the Prophet Ibrahim.