Growing up in Pakistan, most of us are familiar with the religious history of sacrificing an animal and distributing its meat. Whether it be Suzuki trucks packed with cows zipping from one side of the city to the other, tents tied down on the side of already overcrowded alleyways, or the laughing voices of children as they tug their goat behind them on the street- Bakra Eid is one holiday that you simply cannot ignore.
But amid all theses crazy preparations, it can be difficult to lose sight of what the holy day stands for. Am I, as a Muslim, truly understanding the essence of Eid?
Eid is Not a Competition
Eid-ul-Adha, or Bakra Eid, is more than just a single day of worship for us Pakistani Muslims. Planning for this holiday begins weeks or even months before the actual date itself. Typically, family members will go together in groups to mandis and scour through hundreds of animals in the search for their sacrifice. Often times this becomes less of a way to purchase an animal and more of a competition on who can spend the most money.
In times like these, it is important to remember why you are buying the animal in the first place. Is it because I am following a religious commandment to feed as many people as I can with this sacrifice, or so I can show off how wealthy I am to all my friends? Getting rid of old habits may be difficult at first, but asking this question repeatedly can keep your mind on the essence of Eid.
Be Gentle With Your Animals
Every Muslim performing a sacrifice on Eid has a duty to satisfy God, the needy, and most importantly, the sacrificial animal. Almost every year its so disappointing watching the poor treatment of these sacrificial cows, goats, and sheep by their owners. Teenagers being violent with animals for the sake of amusement, sticking their fingers in their eyes or hitting them with sticks. There have been inexperienced slaughterers using blunt knives as they sacrifice one animal in front of the others. I’ve even come across educated people photographing the bloody aftermath and posting it on social media.
Muslims sacrifice these animals for a very specific reason. Their treatment before and during the sacrifice is of utmost importance. Treating your animals with respect and kindness should be every Muslim’s first priority.
Give Back to Those Who Need it
For many people, Eid is one of the only times when they can acquire meat for themselves and their family. Food itself is a blessing, so be sure to fill up the dining tables of as many people as possible. Share with others the best cuts of the animal that you would rather keep for yourself. These days are about community so make sure your sacrifice is not a reason for someone else’s suffering. Clean up after yourself. This Eid, let the streets of Pakistan be full of satisfied bellies and pure hearts, rather than blood and carcasses.
Eid Mubarak to all Muslims. May our efforts be rewarded as we seek to understand the essence of Eid this year.
