Regarding celebrating Eid festivals in Islam, two occasions are compulsory for Muslims to celebrate: Eid Ul Adha and Eid Ul Fitr. Eid Ul Adha is extremely important for all the Muslims around the world. Many religious scholars consider it a day of sacrifice and charity in Islam.
On this occasion, Muslims remember the story of Prophet Ibrahim and how he was willing to sacrifice his own son on one command of Allah. This occasion serves as a reminder for Muslims about the faith of Prophet Ibrahim and how he was willing to sacrifice his son in the name of Allah. Not only this, Eid Ul Adha also highlights the importance of selflessness and returning to the community.
Why Does Islam Emphasize Charity?
Allah mentions the word charity several times in the Holy Quran, and there is a reason for it. When we mention charity, we instantly think about helping others and showing them kindness. It also means sharing wealth and supporting others from a lower financial background.
Charity is the third pillar of Islam, also known as Zakat. It is when Muslims give away a portion of their wealth to other needy people. Alternatively, there is the act of Sadaqah, which is not obligatory for Muslims. Sadaqah does not have to be in the form of monetary wealth. You can even share a meal with a stranger, and it will be considered Sadqah.
Abu Huraira reported that a person came to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and said:
[Sahih al-Bukhari 3366]
"Messenger of Allah, which charity is the greatest in reward? (The Prophet said): By your father, beware, you should give charity (in a state when you are) healthy and close-fisted, haunted by the fear of poverty, and still hoping to live (as rich). And you must not defer charity (to the time) when you are about to die, and would then say:" This is for so and so, and this for so and so." It has already become the possession of so and so."
The Importance of Giving on Eid UL Adha
Eid Ul Adha is just around the corner, and discussing how important it is to give charity on this auspicious occasion is essential.
1. Helping out the Needy
Eid Ul Adha is an important day in the lives of every Muslim. It helps them to focus on how important it is to show sympathy towards others. Eid Ul Adha involves sacrificing animals in the name of Allah and then distributing its meat among the needy. Sacrificing animals on Eid and then giving them away to the poor is one of the greatest acts of charity that we get to see in all Muslim communities around the world.
According to Islam, Muslims must divide the meat into three portions: one for the relatives, the second for the family and the third for those who are poor. Dividing meat among the poor allows them to enjoy the festivities without worrying about food or other expenses.
2. Promotion of Equality in the Society
With acts of charity during Eid Ul Adha, people can close the gap between the rich and poor. When rich people distribute meat to poor people in society, they realize their financial conditions and try to sympathize with them. This act of sharing is what an Ideal Islamic society is based on: a society that promotes justice, fairness and equality.
3. Builds up the Spirit of Community
Acts of charity during Eid Ul Adha help strengthen the bond between community members. They create a scene of unity among all members of society regardless of their social status. People from every household distribute meat to their neighbors, relatives, and friends, which ensures that people come together and celebrate special occasions.
In some communities, people gather to arrange Eid Milan Parties or feasts where people can interact with one another. Such get-togethers allow Muslims from different backgrounds to mingle and learn more about their cultures. It creates a sense of understanding and mutual respect in society.
4. Charity Spiritually Cleanses the Soul
Ka'b bin Ujrah narrated:
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 614]
"Sadaqah (charity) extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire."
When people give charity or sadqah, they go through a process of cleansing their souls. Also, when Muslims share their resources with the poor people in society, it shows that they are obedient to Allah and are committed to the teachings of Islam. Sadqah is also considered an act of worship that becomes a source to gain the blessings of Allah. Moreover, it also means that every Muslim has belief in their heart to help other servants of Allah.
How Can We Practice Charity on Eid Ul Adha?
During Eid ul Fitr as well as Eid Ul Adha, the word charity takes a whole new meaning. In Eid ul fitr, Muslims usually practice giving away Zakat and sadqa as much as they can. These acts of charity are mostly in the form of monetary wealth. On the other hand, Eid Ul Adha Muslims can practice charity by not only giving away monetary funds but also the meat of sacrificial animals.
Know more about Eid Ul Adha and its history hereEvery wealthy Muslim man or woman must sacrifice an animal on Eid Ul Adha. They must then distribute a portion of this meat to their friends, relatives, and especially the needy. This is a sign that humans are compassionate towards other human beings. Moreover, Muslims can also give gifts and clothes to other needy people to show goodwill to the community.
In the Quran, Allah says,
[Al-Quran 2:272]
"It is not for you to guide them: God guides whom He will. Whatever you spend you will do so for yourself, for you will do so to seek the way that leads to God; and what you spend in charity you will get back in full, and no wrong will be done to you."
Conclusion
Giving charity during Eid Ul Adha is a practice that has existed in the Muslim community for generations. It helps to create significant changes not only in society but also in individuals. Donors who give charity to the poor develop a sense of fulfillment, creating compassion in their hearts. As Muslims, it is our responsibility to continue this trend of giving on Eid and make it a part of our routine.