The Festival of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha), one of the holiest celebrations in Islam, marks the ultimate sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to offer his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God.
This profound moment in Islamic tradition transcends religious boundaries, as Prophet Abraham is equally revered in Judaism and Christianity. In fact, Muslims consider Abraham the ‘Father of the Prophets’, a lineage that also includes figures such as Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).
Eid al-Adha is a time of reflection, compassion and solidarity. During this holiday, Muslims around the world come together to sacrifice an animal, with the meat being distributed to the needy. This act serves as a reminder of the values of charity, empathy, and community — values that resonate deeply within all Abrahamic faiths.
The story of Prophet Abraham, his devotion and his willingness to sacrifice for God is not just a reminder of faith but also a call for unity. Muslims, Jews and Christians all trace their spiritual heritage to Abraham, making it clear that our shared beliefs far outweigh our differences. In a world often divided by conflict, the message of the Festival of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) stands as a beacon of peace and mutual respect, urging us to build bridges rather than walls.
Let this festival inspire us all to embrace the shared humanity that connects us, fostering harmony and understanding among people of all faiths.
This year we will celebrate the Festival of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) at 8am on Friday, June 6, at 8 Acacia St, Albanian Moslem Society, Shepparton.
You are all welcome to attend to the prayers and the celebration.
— Imam Hysni Merja
17°C