Eid Adha Community Celebration

‘Muslims celebrate Eid ul Adha to mark the culmination of the Hall (pilgrimage) taking place in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the second of the two major festivals celebrated by Muslims

Eid ul Adha is one of two significant celebrations for Muslims. in fact it is regarded as the Greater Eid. It is a time for families and friends to acknowledge the culmination of the Hajj - pilgrimage - taking place in Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Performing the Hajj is one of the 5 pillars of Islam - an obligatory action that all Muslims attempt to fulfil if they are able to. The festival is a form of acknowledgement that loved ones on the Hajj have successfully completed the obligation. Eid Adha serves also to remind Muslims of the absolute faith and trust in God by Abraham when he willingly accepted to sacrifice his son and in return God replaced his son with a lamb. Hence, during this festival Muslims who can, sacrifice a lamb and a portion of the meat is shared with family, friends and the third portion given to the poor and needy. Here in Nelson, where Muslims are distanced from their wider families and friends, it becomes more crucial for the community to find support and unity with each other. At the same time, it will provide an opportunity for parents to engage their children in their efforts to to keep the tradition alive down the generations.’

Nissa Mowjood / Faridah Tup - Nelson-Whakatu Muslim Association (NWMA)