Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most important holidays for Muslims around the world. The date of Eid al -Adha is based on the lunar calendar and varies from year to year. It falls on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijjah, which is the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. However, the exact date depends on the sighting of the new moon, which can differ by a day or two in different regions.
This year, astronomers have predicted that Eid al-Adha will most likely be celebrated on Thursday. June 29th, 2023. This is because the new moon of Dhul Hijjah is expected to be born on Monday, June 19th, 2023 at 10:53 UTC, and will be visible in most parts of the world on Tuesday, June 20th 2023. Therefore, the first day of Dhul Hijjah will be on Wednesday, June 21st 2023 and the 10th will be on Thursday, June 29th 2023.
However, this is only an estimation based on astronomical calculations and may not be accurate for every location. The final decision will be made by the local authorities after confirming the moon sighting with their own methods. Therefore, Muslims are advised to follow their local announcement and news for the official declaration of Eidal-Adha.
On this day, Muslims perform Eid prayers in the morning, followed by animal sacrifice, charity, social gatherings, festive meals, and gift-giving.
Eid al-Adha also coincides with the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, in western Saudi Arabia. Millions of Muslims from different countries perform Hajj every year, fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam. Hajj rituals include circling the Kaaba seven times, walking between the hills of Sava and Marwa seven times, standing on Mount Arafat, and stoning the devil.
The day before Eid al-Adha is known as Arafat Day, which is expected to fall on June 27, 2023. Those who are not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast on this day, as it is believed that fasting on Arafat Day expiates sins for two years.
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