Eid-ul-Azha preaches sacrifice and sharing

As Muslims in the country celebrates Eid-ul-Azha, the second most important festival in the Islamic calendar, we hope it will be an occasion to reflect not merely on the ritualistic aspects of the festival but its spiritual message. The sacrificing of animals on this day symbolises the supreme sacrifice of his beloved son that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was willing to make to honour the wishes of his Creator. It was a test of faith as well as an act of supreme sacrifice.

Apart from imbibing these noble values, this is an occasion for those who are materially better off to share with those less fortunate, their food (symbolised by the distribution of meat from the sacrificed animals) and their wealth. For what is the point of a festival if everyone cannot take part in it? Let us remember that there are many of our brothers and sisters and children who go hungry every day and do not have the means to wear new clothes or eat nourishing meals. This is the perfect opportunity for Muslims to show their humanity which is the basic value of Islam, by refraining from immodest show of wealth and sharing it with others.

On a more practical note we urge our fellow citizens to carry out the sacrifice in a clean, hygienic way, without causing any environmental hazard. This must be ensured by the respective city corporations in cooperation with the public.

Last but not least, we hope that all Eid travellers will have a safe journey home to celebrate this special occasion with loved ones. In view of the dedicated student movement for safe roads we hope the authorities will be extra vigilant in making sure that precious lives are not lost in road crashes during these journeys. We wish our readers and patrons Eid Mubarak!