Syeda Amtul

Saudi Gazette

Eid is synonymous with enjoyment for children. No matter in which country Eid is being celebrated, the excitement and the anticipation of celebrating is at its peak.



This weak, Muslims around the world celebrated the Eid Al Adha, also known as “Big Eid” or “Bakra Eid” in Asian countries.



Eid Al Adha marks the completion of Haj, a pilgrimage undertaken by Muslims every year in Zul Hijja, according to the Islamic calendar.



This festival also serves as a reminder about obeying and having immense faith in Allah — just like Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail (May Allah be pleased with them).



Allah had commanded Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his dearest son Prophet Ismail. While he was on his way to obey Allah’s command, Satan tried to dissuade him from following Allah’s orders.



Prophet Ibrahim kept throwing stones at the Satan to drive him away. However, when Prophet Ibrahim was about to sacrifice Prophet Ismail, he was surprised to find a lamb instead of his son.



Eid Al Adha is a celebration of this supreme example of submission to Allah.



While rejoicing we should think also remember not only their faith but also obedience of Prophet Ismail toward his father.



On Eid, children and adults alike dress in new clothes and offer prayer at the mosque in congregation.



At this time of the year, it is holiday in the Kingdom. Some people travel abroad while some visit other towns and cities. Majority of them visit Madinah to offer Eid prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque.



Like every year, thousands of children and adults thronged the Prophet’s Mosque, courtyard and its adjoining areas in the wee hours of morning to pray Fajr, listen to the “Takbeer,” and then offer the Eid prayers. 



Saudi Gazette spoke with few children who celebrated Eid with their parents, cousins and friends.



Eight-year-old Abdullah said: “On the occasion of Eid, we came here with all our relatives and cousins to celebrate Eid at the Prophet’s Mosque. This time is very memorable for me. I am very happy.”



Abdullah, who studies in grade 4 at International Indian School Jeddah, also said that on the day of Arafah, his parents told him the importance of fasting on that day and why Eid Al Adha is celebrated.



“I will be going for ‘Ziyarah’ with my family and friends and then gather at a relative’s place for a meal,” he said.



Abdul Nafey, a young five-year-old boy, said: “I love Eid, it’s very good as I get holidays and receive gifts.”



Saud Ikram, a 12-year-old, who studies in International Indian School Dammam, said: “On the morning of Eid, I wear my new cloths, go to the mosque with my dad and then visit my relatives and friends with my brothers. For dinner, my parents will take me to my favorite restaurant after which, we will go to an amusement park for adventurous rides.”



He added: “We also had fun in the garden, which is located behind my house, in the afternoon on Eid. My friends were also there and we enjoyed a lot. 



Zaid Zafar, an 8-year-old who studies in grade 3 in Novel International School Jeddah, said: “Eid is so different in Madinah. I receive lots of gifts from my family as I am the youngest one. I love to pray in the Haram. I am enjoying a lot. Many of my friends are in Madina too with their parents. I want to celebrate my all Eids in Madinah here, like how we are doing now.



Hamza, 9, studies at International Indian School-Dammam. On Eid he also wore new clothes and went to the mosque with his mum and dad to offer the Eid prayers.



“We also had a hearty breakfast prepared by my mom and then joined our relatives.”



“Eid is a joyous occasion for me and my brothers as we help our father slaughter goats, which my dad bought a day before the Eid. We had fun feeding and enjoyed playing with them,” said a jubilant 13-year-old Yahya Syed, adding that after the sacrifice he went around distributing meat to family and friends.