When we hear the word sacrifice, we often think of giving up something valuable for a greater purpose, whether wealth, comfort, time, or personal desire. In Islam, Eid ul-Adha reminds us of one of the greatest examples of sacrifice in human history. It is not only a festival marked by the offering of animals, but a lesson in faith, obedience, sincerity, and compassion. To understand its true meaning, we must first look at the remarkable event that gave rise to this blessed day.
In ages past, Allah the Almighty tested Hazrat Ibrahim (as) in a way that no ordinary person could imagine. In a dream, he was shown that he was to sacrifice his beloved son, Hazrat Ismail (as). This was not simply a difficult command, but the severest test of love, faith, and submission. Yet Hazrat Ibrahim (as), who had devoted his life entirely to God, did not hesitate. He informed his son of the divine command, and Hazrat Ismail (as) responded with complete trust and obedience:
“O my father, do as thou art commanded; thou wilt find me, if Allah please, of those who are patient” (37:103).
This response itself is extraordinary. A father was ready to sacrifice his son, and a son was ready to offer his life, both for the sake of Allah. When Hazrat Ibrahim (as) raised the knife, Allah sent a ram to be sacrificed in his son’s place. Hazrat Ibrahim (as) offered the ram, fulfilling the command. This moment remains a symbol of faith, devotion, and complete submission to God’s will.
Today, while we may not be asked to make such a great sacrifice, we still face smaller tests every day.
Eid ul-Adha is celebrated in remembrance of this sacrifice. It teaches Muslims that devotion to God, obedience to His commands, and patience in difficult times lead to success. It is also a festival of sharing. The meat from the sacrifice is not for personal use alone, but is meant for family, neighbors, and those less fortunate. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) instructed:
“Eat of it, feed others, and store it, for in that year the people were having a hard time, and I wanted you to help the needy” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5569, Book of Sacrifices).
Today, while we may not be asked to make such a great sacrifice, we still face smaller tests every day. These may include giving part of our wealth to others, sacrificing our time, helping those in need, or choosing honesty over personal gain. Even these small sacrifices, though challenging, can bring great spiritual reward when they are offered sincerely.
The Holy Qur’an reminds us of the true spirit behind sacrifice: “Their flesh reaches not Allah, nor does their blood, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him” (22:38).
This verse teaches that the outward act is not the main thing. What truly matters is sincerity, righteousness, and pure intention. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aa) beautifully explained this point when he said:
“Allah thus explains that Taqwa is the actual essence of this sacrifice. One should be ready to sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah… faith must be given precedence above worldly affairs” (Eid-ul-Adha Sermon, August 12, 2019).
The Promised Messiah (as) also wrote: “It was sincerity and righteousness which led Abraham, on whom be peace, the Father of the Prophets, to sacrifice his son without hesitation … The Holy Prophet (sa) stood firm against all forms of evil. He bore diverse trials and tribulations, but did not care in the least. It was this sincerity and devotion which moved Allah the Exalted to shower His grace. It is for this reason that He states:
Allah Almighty and His angels send blessings upon the Messenger… Surah al-Ahzab, 33:57” (Malfuzat (Eng. 2018), Vol. 1, p. 36-7).
Sacrifice itself is a trial, but Islam teaches that in every difficulty, we have a God to turn to for help. Allah reminds us: “Aye! It is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort” (13:29).
May Allah enable us to understand the importance of sacrifice, act upon its teachings, and benefit from the true spirit of this blessed festival. Ameen.
