7 Sunnah Practices on Eid ul-Adha

Eid ul Adha is one of the Greatest Islamic Festivals, which is Celebrated by Every Muslims all around the World. It is a joy-filled day of prayers and offerings, celebrating the end of Hajj pilgrimage and commemorating the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) towards Allah, to mention a few things on this glorious day. There are some Sunnah practices (tradition of Prophet Muhammad, PBUH) to make this day special. These practices not only earn reward in spirituality but also add a meaningful dimension to celebrating this memorable day.

Here are seven Sunnah practices to follow on Eid ul-Adha:

1. Performing Ghusl (Ritual Bath)

A ghusl should be taken before going for the Eid prayer. This Sunnah would purify him and prepare him for one of those grand occasions and also mean he goes into the prayer ground in a state of physical cleanliness. It is not obligatory but very highly encouraged, as part of the eid traditions.

2. Wearing Clean and New Clothes

On Eid ul Adha, it is Sunnah to wear your best clothes. This may take the form of wearing a new outfit or indeed just the cleanest, most beautiful clothes. The idea is to dress well; it is all about being grateful to Allah for His bounty and to flaunt the day in all significance, as dressing well impacts how you perceive the day and show it is approaching. It is one of those activities to help fill the space of celebrating Eid joy.

3. Eating Before the Eid Prayer (for Men)

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended men to eat dates in the morning before the Eid prayer. Eating an odd number of dates-whether 1, 3, or 5-is a simple Sunnah practice yet significant. This practice is not obligatory for women, but men may carry it out.

4. Reciting Takbeer

From the time the Fajr prayer is held on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijja until the Eid prayer is performed, Muslims should recite the Takbeer on that day. This recitation is a beautiful way to celebrate Allah’s greatness and might. The Takbeer is as follows:

“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil hamd.”

Translation: “Allah is the Greatest; Allah is the Greatest; there is no deity except Allah; Allah is the Greatest; Allah is the Greatest; and to Allah belongs all praise.” Saying this Takbeer aloud or quietly gets the spirit of Eid going.

5. Offering the Eid Prayer

It is an important Sunnah for men to perform Eid prayers in congregation. Eid prayers are usually performed on open fields or in large mosques. The prayers consist of two Rak’ahs with an extra few Takbeers and are a public act of worship that unites Muslims in prayer. This is followed by a sermon or Khutbah, which is itself an important Eid tradition.

Eid prayers are a special way of showing thanks to Allah for all His gifts. This simple yet powerful act starts the day on Eid.

6. Sacrificing an Animal (Qurbani)

Qurbani, which refers to the sacrifice of an animal for the consideration of Allah, is one of the most well-known Sunnah acts to perform on Eid ul-Adha. The sacrifice of an animal signifies the remembrance of the story of the Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son according to God’s command. For those who can afford to eat Qurbani, it is obligatory, furthermore, it is a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Thus, every Muslim who can afford to sacrifice an animal, either a goat, sheep, cow or camel, will do so and share the meat with family and friends, as well as those who are less fortunate. So, not only is it revered and sacred tradition, it is de facto charity, and provides an opportunity to help the less fortunate partake in the celebration of Eid.

7. Visiting Relatives and Neighbors

Another significant aspect of Eid ul-Adha is visiting family, friends and community. A Sunnah is to visit family and neighbors on special occasions, especially sick, elderly, those in need or alone. Eating together, exchanging gifts, and spending quality time signifies the togetherness which Eid signifies. Eid is not only about coming together in celebration, but also about spreading kindness and joy to those around us.

Final Words

Eid ul-Adha is a time to reflect, give thanks, and develop a spirit of community. Following the Sunnah practices on this blessed day adds to its spirituality. Every step we take, from performing ghusl to slaughtering an animal, draws us closer to Allah while instilling the sense of brotherhood and unity amongst Muslims around the globe. May we all find this Sunnah practice a way to celebrate Eid in the truest sense?