Why do Muslims sacrifice a lamb or other animal during the festival of Eid ul-Adha?
The sacrifice commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s readiness to sacrifice his son, identified in Islam as Ishmael, at God’s request. This is not a blood offering. In the Quran God states: “Neither their meat nor their blood ever reaches God, but heedfulness on your part does reach Him.” (Chapter 22, verse 37) The meat is distributed to relatives and to the needy. Q: Is Hajj an obligation on all Muslims? A: Yes, but only for those who are physically and financially able to make the trip. Q: What are the most visually striking aspects of Hajj? A: All pilgrims must do tawaf, or circling the Ka’aba. This obligation creates a stunning scene as thousands of people circle the building at all times of the day and night. Also, the standing at Arafah on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah presents a scene in which several million people all dressed alike and with the same intention to worship God, gather on a barren plain. Q: How should non-Muslim friends and co-workers interact with s
