Saudi Arabia Announces Start of Dhul Hijjah, Eid Al-Adha Celebrations to Commence Soon
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially declared the sighting of the crescent moon on Thursday, marking the commencement of the month of Dhul Hijjah. This declaration signals the approaching start of the highly revered Islamic festival, Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice.
According to the Saudi Supreme Court, Arafat Day, which is the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, will be observed on Saturday, June 15, followed by the first day of Eid Al-Adha on Sunday, June 16.
While most Gulf countries have concurred with Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting, Oman has stated a differing stance. The country has announced that the crescent moon was not sighted within its borders on Thursday, indicating that Eid Al-Adha will be celebrated on Monday, June 17.
Significance of Eid Al-Adha
Eid Al-Adha holds immense significance in the Islamic faith. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command. However, before Ibrahim could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
Eid Al-Adha also marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the fifth pillar of Islam. Muslims from around the world gather in Mecca to perform rituals that commemorate the events in the lives of Ibrahim and his family.
Apart from prayers, feasting, and sharing gifts, Eid Al-Adha is a time for spiritual reflection, strengthening bonds with family and community, and extending compassion towards others.
Popular Sweets Associated with Eid Al-Adha
Various delectable sweets are traditionally prepared during Eid Al-Adha celebrations:
1.
Baklava:
A rich pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.2.
Maamoul:
Small shortbread pastries filled with dates, nuts, or other sweet fillings and often dusted with powdered sugar.3.
Basbousa:
A moist and dense semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavoured with rose water or orange blossom water and topped with almonds or coconut.4.
Sheer Khurma:
A traditional dessert made with vermicelli noodles cooked in milk and sweetened with sugar, flavoured with cardamom and saffron, and garnished with nuts and dried fruits.5.
