Eid al-Adha—the “Festival of Sacrifice”—marks the climax of Hajj, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. On this day, Muslims around the globe emulate the spirit of Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice by performing an act of udhiyah (أضحية). The term "udhiyah" refers to the animal sacrifice offered during Eid al-Adha. It is derived from the Arabic root "ضحّى," meaning to sacrifice or offer in devotion, and symbolizes the willingness to give up something dear for the sake of Allah.

The udhiyah is performed by slaughtering a permissible animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, in remembrance of Ibrahim’s (AS) submission to Allah. This sacrifice is a physical and spiritual act of devotion. The Qur'an emphasizes the importance of intention behind the sacrifice, as Allah says:

This act of udhiyah is a powerful reminder of the values of selflessness, devotion, and gratitude. The sacrifice is divided into three portions: one for the individual or family performing the udhiyah, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. This distribution ensures that the blessings of the sacrifice are shared widely and that the less fortunate are included in the joy of Eid.

Moreover, the udhiyah represents the concept of taqwa (God-consciousness). By offering the best of what one owns for Allah's sake, Muslims demonstrate their devotion and reliance on Him. It is not merely about slaughtering an animal; it is about honoring Allah's command, reflecting on His blessings, and reaffirming one’s trust and submission to His will.

In essence, udhiyah is more than an act of charity or tradition—it is a profound expression of faith and a reminder of the immense mercy and wisdom of Allah. Through this practice, Muslims worldwide unite in commemorating the enduring legacy of Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS), drawing closer to their Creator and strengthening bonds within their communities.

One of the most profound stories of faith and submission in Islamic tradition is the test Allah placed upon the Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Allah commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS), as a demonstration of his unwavering obedience and trust in his Lord. This was no ordinary test—it was a trial that struck at the core of human attachment and emotion. Despite the enormity of the command, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) did not waver. In complete submission to Allah’s will, he informed his young son Ismail (AS) of the divine instruction.

Remarkably, Ismail (AS), with equal faith and courage, responded, *“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.”* (Surah As-Saffat 37:102). This exchange exemplifies the highest levels of trust, devotion, and patience from both father and son. Together, they demonstrated what it means to place one’s faith in Allah above all else.

As Ibrahim (AS) prepared to carry out the command, Allah, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, intervened. Just as the knife was about to descend, Allah called out to Ibrahim (AS), informing him that it was merely a test—a trial of faith that both father and son had passed with distinction. Instead of Ismail (AS), Allah provided a ram to be sacrificed. This moment became a symbol of absolute submission to Allah’s will, and the honor of Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS) has since echoed through the generations.

Their legacy is so profound that billions of people worldwide continue to honor their faith and sacrifice. Their names are among the most cherished, with countless children named Ibrahim and Ismail in tribute to their piety and strength. Furthermore, their story is commemorated annually during **Eid al-Adha**, one of the two sacred celebrations in Islam.  

**Eid al-Adha**—the “Festival of Sacrifice”—marks the climax of Hajj, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. On this day, Muslims around the globe emulate the spirit of Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice by offering an animal—such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel—in the name of Allah. This act of qurbani (sacrifice) is carried out with the intention of gaining Allah’s pleasure and remembering His mercy.  

The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three portions: one for the individual or family performing the sacrifice, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy within the community. This act reflects the core Islamic values of sharing, compassion, and gratitude. It reminds Muslims that their blessings are not theirs alone but are entrusted to them by Allah to be shared with others.  

Eid al-Adha also serves as a time of reflection. It reminds Muslims to evaluate their own submission to Allah. Are they willing to let go of their attachments, fears, and desires in order to follow Allah’s commands? Just as Ibrahim (AS) placed his complete trust in Allah, Eid al-Adha inspires Muslims to strive for a similar level of faith and devotion.

In essence, this story and the celebration of Eid al-Adha serve as timeless lessons in obedience, sacrifice, and the boundless mercy of Allah. They remind us that faith, when rooted in sincerity and trust in Allah, brings honor, blessings, and spiritual elevation that resonate far beyond our earthly lives.