Eid al-Adha, or 'Festival of the Sacrifice', is one of the most significant holidays in Togo, particularly amongst the Muslim population. Its timing is based on the lunar Islamic calendar, typically falling on the 10th day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. The festival lasts for approximately four days and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah (God). Eventually, Allah replaced Ibrahim's son with a lamb for the sacrifice, which is the central event of the celebrations.
Preparation for Eid al-Adha in Togo involves cleaning, making special foods, and dressings in new or best clothes. The sense of camaraderie and shared religious devotion is palpable throughout the nation. On this day, families offer a sacrificial animal, usually a goat or a sheep, as a symbol of their respect and devotion to Allah. The meat is then divided into three parts. The first share is for the family, the second for friends and neighbors, and the third for the poor and needy. This distribution is a way of promoting unity, offering support to the less fortunate, and thanking Allah for all their blessings.
In addition to sacrifices, prayer is a significant aspect of Eid al-Adha. Muslims attend a special prayer session at a mosque or an open prayer area. This is followed by the traditional sermon, known as a khutbah. The holiday is not only a time for religious devotion but also a period for families to come together, share meals, and visit friends and relatives. Children often receive gifts or money and everyone enjoys the festive atmosphere. Despite being a religious Muslim holiday, Eid al-Adha in Togo is inclusive, fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities within the country.