Muslims All over the World Celebrate Eid al-Adha

Local Editor

The Hajj is one of the most celebrated events in the Islamic calendar and one of the world's largest public gatherings. The culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage is marked by the Eid al-Adha or the "Feast of Sacrifice" which is celebrated all over the world.

Muslims flocked to mosques and open grounds on Thursday to participate in celebrations marking the auspicious occasion, which is one of the most significant festivals on the Muslim calendar.

In the Philippines, around 3,000 Muslims in Baguio gathered at the Lake Drive and Juan Luna Drive inside Burnham Park to join in prayer and observe the religious celebration.

Muhammad Camel Sultan, director of the Almaarif Educational Center in Baguio, gave talks to remind Muslims to practice the way of life and core values of Islam. Sultan raised the importance of remaining united in seeking for peace, continued prayer, charity and love for fellow Muslim brothers.

Adding to this, a mass prayer was held in the Iranian capital, Tehran, with people and high-profile officials of the country in attendance. Sayyed Ahmad Khatami led the Eid al-Adha prayers.

Elsewhere, some 1.1 million other public school students in New York City's 1,800 schools will have the day off from school to celebrate Eid al-Adha. It's the first time the school system will be closed for a Muslim holiday.

For most Muslims, Hajj is the spiritual climax of their lives, with many saving for decades to make the journey. More than 2 million Muslims from around the world are attending events over several days at the annual pilgrimage.

Known as the fifth pillar of Islam, the Hajj is an obligation upon every Muslim who has the financial means and the physical ability to perform it.

The pilgrimage, conducted over five days from the 8th through the 12th of Dhul Hijjah on the Muslim lunar calendar, includes detailed rituals such as wearing a special white garment that symbolizes human equality and unity before God; a circular procession around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine; and the symbolic stoning of evil called "stoning the devil".

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team