Eid al-Adha, also called the 'Festival of Sacrifice', is one of the two key Islamic holidays celebrated globally each year. It is particularly significant in Syria, a country with a substantial Muslim population. In Syria, Eid al-Adha is a public holiday, and preparations for its observation begin well in advance. The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (or Abraham) to obey Allah's command to sacrifice his son. However, a divine intervention replaced the child with a sheep at the last moment.
The main ritual of Eid al-Adha in Syria, as in other Muslim countries, is the slaughtering of sheep. Every financially capable Muslim is required to participate in this ritual. The meat of the slaughtered sheep is then divided into three parts. One third of the share is given away to less fortunate people; one third is given to relatives, friends and neighbors; and the remaining third is retained by the family. This act signifies helping those who are in need.
In addition to the ritualistic animal sacrifices, Eid al-Adha in Syria is characterized by communal prayers, feasting, and donations to the poor. Friends and families gather to share meals that commonly feature the sacrificed lamb. As part of the festivities, people also dress in new clothes, visit family members, exchange gifts, and decorate their homes. It’s an occasion that engenders unity, shared sacrifice, and charity among the Muslim community.