A Celebration of the Offering: Eid ul Adha

Eid ul Adha Message

Eid ul Adha will be celebrated by Muslims on Friday 6 until sundown on Saturday 7 June 2025, It is also known as the 'Celebration of the Offering’ and is one of the most important occasions in the Muslim calendar. It is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah (the month of pilgrimage), in the twelfth and final month of the lunar based Islamic calendar.

It marks the spiritual journey of Hajj (the Fifth Pillar of Islam), including the determination of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) who was prepared to sacrifice his own son Prophet Ismail (Ishmael), when commanded to do so by Allah (God).

Although Satan tried to distract him from the task, Prophet Ibrahim drove the devil away by throwing stones - an act that has been preserved as a ritual during the Hajj. Allah then saw the strength of Prophet Ibrahim's devotion and gave him a ram to slaughter instead.

This has been preserved as the idea of a person showing their piety and obedience to Alalh by being willing to sacrifice what they love most. These days, families carry out or pay for the slaughter of an animal and share the meat three ways - among family; relatives and friends; and the poor and needy.

Eid ul Adha falls on the third day of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia, that must be undertaken by all healthy adult Muslims at least once in their life. Hajj begins on the 8th day of Dhul Hijjah and is performed over five days, or sometimes six.

Those remaining at home will adhere to spiritual reflection, prayer, fasting, charitable acts and sharing food. From the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah until the ninth day of the month, Muslims may choose to fast. On the tenth day, Eid ul Adha begins and friends and family will gather for a feast and enjoy a few days of celebration.

Muslims celebrate by going to the Mosque or congregating in open areas for early morning prayers. Prior to the Eid prayer, Muslims are encouraged to give to charity for those in need. Then it is time for family and friends to celebrate; by dressing up in smart clothes, enjoying delicious food and exchanging presents such as money, which is given to children, immediate relatives and loved ones.

Eid is a joyous occasion where friends and family get together to celebrate, including having a big feast. It is also a time for increased compassion and giving to those in need.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the staff celebrating Eid, a very happy Eid Mubarak. May the blessings of Eid fill your hearts and homes with endless joy and happiness Whether you will be working on Eid day or enjoying the day with friends and family, you will all be in my prayers.

Eid ul Adha will be celebrated by our Chaplaincy, on Monday 16 June 2025 from 11.30 am utill 1.30 pm, in the Students' Union at City Campus. All are welcome to attend but you must register your place at the following booking form.

For enquiries, contact the Chaplaincy at chaplaincy@wlv.ac.uk. 

More about Eid ul Adha Eid al-Adha 2025 - When is Eid al-Adha? | Islamic Relief UK