MUSCAT: Oman is immersed in celebration today as the first day of Eid al Adha of Hijri year 1444 dawns. After participating in the grand Arafah congregations, the largest of its kind in the world, pilgrims have returned on Tuesday following the completion of the sacred rituals.
Both citizens and residents of Oman are filled with elation as they gather at the Eid Garh and mosques for special Eid prayers, commemorating the momentous sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim made some 1,400 years ago.
The special Eid prayers commence at dawn, at 6:30 am, while children receive sweets and Eidiya (gifts of money) as tokens of celebration. Elders exchange heartfelt Eid wishes with one another, fostering a sense of kinship and brotherhood.
In anticipation of Eid, houses are adorned with decorations, new clothes are tailored, and delectable sweets and special food are prepared.
In Islam, Eid al Adha is also a significant time for families to reunite and spend quality time together. Parents and grandparents often give gifts, including money and sweets, to the children.
Eid al Adha, also known as 'Bakrid', is the 'festival of sacrifice'. Celebrated by Muslims worldwide, it holds immense significance, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's profound act of sacrifice and his unwavering obedience to Almighty Allah.
However, the true essence of Eid lies in enhancing the bonds of family and fostering social and cultural unity, as expressed by Dr P Mohammed Ali, CMD of Mfar and National University. "Eid is a celebration and an opportunity to strengthen social and cultural bonds, as well as reinforce familial ties through the exchange of gifts and introducing children to traditional culture," he says.
"Both Eid days are an occasion to rejoice. They are days to express gratitude to Almighty Allah for His heavenly blessings upon us. While the first Eid teaches us brotherhood, unity and love, the second Eid allows us to cherish the act of sacrifice and teaches us the importance of sharing what we have with others. This day symbolises virtues such as patience, piety, godliness and fortitude," says C M Najeeb.
For Rayees Ahmed, an educationist and entrepreneur, Eid day is a time for reconnecting with family and friends. "For some of us whose children are far away during Eid, we all come together to enjoy each other's company. Friends from near and far connect and extend Eid greetings, making this day a unique experience of bonding," he says.
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