The Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in Turkiye, also known as Kurban Bayrami in Turkish, is a major Muslim holiday. It is a time when Muslims gather with their families and communities to express gratitude and celebrate their faith.
The Feast of Sacrifice in Turkiye is a prominent cultural occasion enjoyed by people of all ages in the country. It is a time for families to assemble and partake in traditional activities and rituals, as well as for friends and neighbors to congregate and share in the holiday delight.
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When is the 2023 Feast of Sacrifice?
Religious days determined according to the Hijri calendar are celebrated every year 11 days before the Gregorian calendar. In 2023, the 1st day of Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayrami) will coincide with Wednesday, June 28.
The holiday starts on 27 June and will end on 1 July. June 28 is the 1st-day of Kurban Bayrami.
Feast of Sacrifice Meaning
A sacrifice is a form of worship that has numerous benefits for both the person and society. A person submits to Allah’s order and vividly expresses his consciousness of servitude by sacrificing a sacrifice.
The Feast of Sacrifice is a significant Islamic holiday that commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to God. In this historic event, Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Ishmael, but as he was about to do so, the angel Gabriel intervened and provided a lamb from heaven to be sacrificed instead. The festival celebrates this act of faith and obedience to God. It brings back memories of prophet İbrahim and his son Ismail’s successful test of absolute obedience to God’s instruction, and he symbolically indicates that they are ready for comparable obedience.
Why is the Eid Al-Adha Important
This gesture is intended to indicate Muslims’ willingness to make sacrifices in the same way that Abraham was willing to make sacrifices. The meat from the butchered animal is then divided into three parts, with one-third going to the poor, one-third going to friends and neighbors, and the remaining third going to the family.
The Feast of Sacrifice is also a time for prayer and reflection, in addition to animal sacrifice. Many Muslims will attend special prayers at their local mosques, and some may also engage in other religious activities such as Quran reading or charitable donations.
The Hajj and Ka’bah
Muslims who are able to do so, typically perform the Hajj pilgrimage on the first day of Eid al-Adha. The Hajj is a five-day journey that commemorates the story of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael for God.
The Ka’bah, or Kaaba, which Muslims believe was built by Abraham and Ishmael in around 570 BC, is located at the center of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is considered to be one of Islam’s holiest sites.
Quran recitation during Eid al-Adha;
As part of their religious obligation (the salat), Muslims recite from the Quran on all five days of Eid al-Adha until sunset.
Celebrations in Turkiye
In Turkiye, the Feast of Sacrifice is marked by several activities and traditions. Many families purchase a sheep or cow to be sacrificed, which is then distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate. It is also customary to wear new clothes during the holiday and exchange gifts with loved ones.
Another important tradition is visiting the graves of deceased family members and offering prayers for their souls. Many people also participate in communal prayers at mosques and enjoy special holiday meals with their families.
The streets come alive during this festive time, with decorations and lights adding to the merriment. It is a time when people of all ages come together to rejoice and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.
Local Tip – How Long Will the 2023 Holiday Last?
It is celebrated on Wednesday, June 28 so the holiday can be merged with the weekend. With this setup, Kurban Bayrami 2023 is predicted to last 5 days.
Museums in Istanbul and other places can be closed and the operating hours of cafes and restaurants in Istanbul can change during the holiday.
What Happens During Feast of Sacrifice?
The Feast of Sacrifice isn’t just about solemn religious activities; it’s also a time for family and friends to celebrate and feast. In Turkiye, it is typical for families to congregate and share delicious dinners, which often include traditional foods like lamb kebabs or baklava. Music, dancing, and other forms of entertainment may also be available.
During the feast of sacrifice, affluent Muslims sacrifice their best halal domestic animals, usually a camel, goat, sheep, or ram depending on the region. The sacrificed animals, called aḍḥiya or qurbāni, are a symbol of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his only son. It is important that the animal meets certain age and quality standards; otherwise, it is considered an unacceptable sacrifice. The ram holds a significant symbol during this celebration and is often used as a replacement for Abraham’s son in the story.
If you visit Turkey during the Feast of Sacrifice, you can expect a lot of activity and excitement on the streets. It is an excellent time to learn about Turkish culture and traditions, and we strongly suggest it to all visitors. Just remember to respect local customs and traditions, and keep in mind that it is a religious holiday for many people.
FAQ
What is the festival of sacrifice called?
How do Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha?
Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, by performing the ritual of animal sacrifice and gathering with family and friends for feasting and celebration. The animal sacrifice is an important part of the celebration and represents the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. After the sacrifice, the meat is divided into three parts - one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need.
Muslims also typically dress up in new or special clothing for Eid al-Adha, attend special prayers at their local mosque or community center, exchange gifts with loved ones, and give to charity. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and reflection on one's faith and connection to God.
