Eid al-Adha, often referred to as the 'Festival of Sacrifice', is one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar, and it is fervently celebrated in Iraq. The holiday commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. However, according to the Islamic tradition, God replaced his son with a ram at the last moment, thus sparing his life. This event symbolizes the importance of faith and submission to the divine will, both foundational principles of Islam.
In Iraq, as in many other Muslim-majority countries, Eid al-Adha is a public holiday and is observed with diverse traditions and customs. The holiday begins with a special prayer, the Salat al-Eid, performed in congregation at mosques or open prayer spaces. Throughout the day, families and friends come together to share meals, often featuring meat from the sacrificed animal. Families that can afford to do so sacrifice a lamb, goat, or cow, symbolizing the original sacrifice of the Prophet Ibrahim. A portion of the meat is consumed at home; the rest is distributed to relatives, neighbors, and the poor, reinforcing the values of charity and community.
The festivities also encompass visiting relatives and neighbors, exchanging gifts, and offering alms to the poor. In the spirit of sharing and community, feasts are often held where the less fortunate can eat for free. For children, the holiday is particularly exciting. They often receive new clothes, toys, or money as presents. Beyond its religious significance, Eid al-Adha in Iraq is also an occasion for family and community bonding, as well as an opportunity to reaffirm the basic Islamic principles of sacrifice, charity, and brotherhood.