Eid al-Adha in Somalia ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Eid al-Adha in Somalia and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Eid al-Adha in Somalia and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Eid al-Adha is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God. In Somalia, Eid al-Adha is also known as the “Festival of the Sacrifice”. It is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar.
Eid al-Adha celebrations in Somalia typically involve the slaughter of a sheep or goat, which is then divided into three parts. One third is given to the poor and needy, another third is shared with friends and family, and the final third is kept for the household.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is usually cooked in a traditional Somali stew known as maraq, which is served with rice or pasta. Other popular dishes include sambusas (fried pastries filled with meat or vegetables) and halwa (a sweet dessert made with semolina).
On Eid al-Adha, many Muslims also perform the Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. This is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is obligatory for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it.