Eid al-Adha, also known as 'Feast of the Sacrifice,' is one of the most significant holidays in Suriname. This Islamic festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God, before God replaced Ishmael with a sheep that was to be sacrificed. It takes place on the tenth day of the Islamic lunar month Dhu al-Hijjah.
In Suriname, a multicultural South American country with a considerable Muslim population, Eid al-Adha is a prominent holiday. Like in other nations, Surinamese Muslims start the day with morning prayers in the mosque, followed by the ritual of Qurbani - the act of sacrificing a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat is then equally distributed. A third is consumed by the family; a third, gifted to friends and relatives; and a third, given to the poor and needy.
Despite the sober origin story, the festival of Eid al-Adha is a time of joy and community in Suriname. It's during this holiday that people show generosity, connect with relatives, and help those less fortunate. Special meals are prepared and enjoyed by all, with the sacrificial meat being a prominent part of the feast. Noteworthy is the blend of Islamic and local traditions during Eid celebrations in Suriname, showcasing the country's rich cultural diversity.