When is Hari Raya Haji?
Hari Raya Haji (Eid Al-Adha) falls on the 10th day of the month of Dzulhijjah, the last month of the Muslim calendar, and marks the conclusion of the annual Haj - the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca.
History of Hari Raya Haji
This festival is celebrated throughout the Muslim world as a commemoration of Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice everything for God, including the life of his own son Ishmael.
Korban is the most important part of Hari Raya Haji and all Muslims who can afford to participate are encouraged to carry it out. Korban is when Muslims purchase an animal to be sacrificed in the direction of the Kaaba. The animal will then be cleaned and cut up.
This act reminds worshippers of the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to offer up even his own flesh and blood to God.
The meat will typically be shared with the needy or with people in the community as it is an act of sacrifice and giving.
As a result of this special occasion, many poor Muslims are able to enjoy the unusual luxury of eating meat during the four days of this festival.
In keeping with the tradition of 'Eid, local Muslims will dress up in new or special clothes, visit friends and relatives, hold 'Eid gatherings and parties as well as give gifts to their children.
