As the crescent moon announces the arrival of Eid-ul-Azha, markets bustle with buyers and sellers, kitchens prepare for days of festivity, and communities gather for one of the most sacred celebrations in Islam. However, beyond the fanfare, feasting, and festivity lies the true spirit of Eid-ul-Azha — one that calls on Muslims to reflect deeply on their faith, compassion, and communal responsibilities. At its heart, Eid-ul-Azha is a commemoration of the ultimate test of faith — the trial of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who, without hesitation, was willing to sacrifice his beloved son at Allah’s command. This act of unwavering devotion and submission was met with Allah’s mercy, replacing the child with a ram, and in doing so, etching a lesson of obedience and sacrifice into the collective conscience of Muslims for all time. The rituals of Eid-ul-Azha are symbolic of much more than the physical act of animal sacrifice. They reignite in believers the spirit of submission to Allah’s will. Like Prophet Ibrahim (AS), we are reminded to place our trust in divine wisdom. This is not merely a historical reflection but a call to live out these values in our daily lives — to trust, obey, and act with sincerity. The sacrifice itself is a spiritual, physical, mental, and financial exercise. For those performing Hajj it is the final act of a pilgrimage demanding their utmost dedication. For others around the world, purchasing and sacrificing an animal also involves careful planning, emotional investment, and monetary expense. However, through this process, Muslims are reminded of the importance of intention and the value of giving. Indeed, there is a deeply emotional and ethical layer to the ritual. In caring for their sacrificial animals, many Muslims develop a fondness for them — feeding them, protecting them, and becoming emotionally attached. This fosters compassion and teaches that animals, too, are part of Allah’s creation, deserving of respect and kindness. Offering this animal in the name of Allah is a gesture of selflessness and spiritual discipline. The act of sacrifice also nurtures generosity. Whether it is parting with a beloved animal or simply spending money that could have been used elsewhere, the essence lies in prioritizing God’s command over personal desires. When Muslims distribute the meat — one-third for the poor, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for personal use — they actively engage in charitable giving, reminding themselves that blessings are to be shared. Economically, Eid-ul-Azha benefits those at the grassroots. Farmers, shepherds, and livestock traders earn their annual livelihood during this season. The ripple effect of financial activity spreads across rural and urban communities. Moreover, many choose to donate animal hides to charitable organizations, helping fund welfare programs across the country. Socially, Eid-ul-Azha brings families and communities together. Eid prayers unite neighborhoods, and the shared preparation and consumption of meals foster bonds. Even those who cannot afford to sacrifice benefit, as they receive meat from others and share it with their families. This act of giving cultivates a culture of empathy and inclusiveness. Eid-ul-Azha is thus a holistic celebration — of faith, of social solidarity, and of economic compassion. It urges Muslims to rise above mere ritual and embrace the values it symbolizes. In a world increasingly divided by self-interest and individualism, the message of Eid-ul-Azha is a powerful reminder of what it means to be truly human — to give, to care, to obey, and to serve. So, as you celebrate Eid, remember the wisdom behind each act. Let this not be just a festival of meat and merriment, but a revival of the virtues that lie at the very core of our faith. Have a blessed and meaningful Eid.