Government Announces Eidul Adha Holidays

 

ISLAMABAD: On Tuesday, the Cabinet Division forwarded a proposal to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, suggesting the dates for Eidul Adha holidays. According to insider sources, the federal government has approved a three-day holiday for the occasion, spanning from June 17 to June 19.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially endorsed the summary provided by the Cabinet Division, solidifying these dates for the holiday period. This year, Pakistan will celebrate Eidul Adha on June 17, as the Zil Hajj moon was sighted on June 7.

Eidul Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. This festival holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.

Traditionally, Eidul Adha is marked by the ritual slaughter of animals such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels. The meat from these sacrifices is then distributed in three parts: one part for the family, one part for relatives and friends, and one part for the less fortunate. This act of sharing symbolizes the willingness to give up things that are valuable to oneself for the sake of others and to follow divine commands.

In Pakistan, the preparations for Eidul Adha begin well in advance. Markets bustle with activity as people buy sacrificial animals and various goods for the celebration. Families gather to perform the sacrifice, a practice that continues for the three days of Eid. This tradition is deeply rooted in the Islamic faith and serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s dedication and submission to God’s will.

The three-day holiday allows families to come together and partake in the festivities, which include special prayers, feasting, and communal activities. Mosques are filled with worshippers attending the Eid prayers, which are followed by the ritual sacrifice. The streets and homes come alive with the spirit of sharing and caring, reinforcing the sense of community and faith.

Eidul Adha also has an economic impact, as the sale of livestock sees a significant boost during this period. Livestock markets, often set up temporarily in cities and towns, witness brisk business as people purchase animals for the ritual sacrifice. This economic activity supports farmers and traders, making Eidul Adha a time of both religious significance and economic vitality.

Furthermore, the observance of Eidul Adha serves as an opportunity for charitable deeds. Muslims are encouraged to help those in need by providing them with meat and other essentials, ensuring that the joy of Eid is shared with everyone, regardless of their financial status. This charitable aspect of Eidul Adha strengthens the bonds of compassion and empathy within the community.

In conclusion, Eidul Adha is not only a time for spiritual reflection and obedience to God but also a period of joy, sharing, and community bonding. The government’s announcement of a three-day holiday from June 17 to June 19 allows citizens to fully engage in the festivities and uphold the traditions that make this festival so meaningful. As families prepare for the celebrations, the spirit of sacrifice and generosity that defines Eidul Adha will once again bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and faith across Pakistan.