The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, being a Muslim country, observes the two most important festivals of Muslims. The first is Eid-ul-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan and the second is Eid-ul-adha which is in the remembrance of the remarkable act of Hazrat Ibrahim which is also called his Sunnah. These two important religious festivals are observed by not only the Muslims of Algeria but Muslims world-wide too.
Hazrat Ibrahim (also known as Abraham) being a faithful, realistic and an obedient servant, was first instructed by Allah in his dreams to migrate to Mecca. He was given the task of creating the foundation of the Kaaba, a black stone which the Muslim face while offering Salah (Prayer). Though he had to face many hardships and sufferings at first, he still obeyed the command of Allah without any complaints or protests. In another dream he was asked to sacrifice the thing he liked the most. At first he tried to give up many things but after that he realized that it was his son, Ishmael. He discussed this dream with his son who was ever ready to follow and carry out Allah’s command without any delay. But miraculously enough, at the very moment when Abraham was about to slide the knife and kill his son, Allah sent a blessing in a form of a ram, so instead of Ishmael the ram was sacrificed. Allah did all of this to test and examine the obedience and duty of Hazrat Ibrahim towards him.
The people of Algeria observe Eid-ul-Adha on 10th Dhu-al-Hajjah of the lunar Islamic calendar month. The people of Algeria also refer it to Eid el-Kbir. All the Muslims including men, women and children gather in a Masjid (Open Ground or hall which is also called an Eidgah). Here they offer two Rakats of Sunnah (a prayer) which is followed by a Khutba by the Imam (Priest). They’re all dressed up in their finest clothing. These are called Kurta Salwar or Jubbah and the men take care to put on a fine scent and a cap to cover their heads while the women wear scarves or a dupatta (a long scarf). After the Eid prayer the Muslims make their way back home where they sacrifice animals such as camels, cows, goats and rams with the name of Allah and a specific statement (dua). About two thirds of the meat is shared with the less fortunate people who can’t afford and take part in sacrificing. It is important for everyone to enjoy the feast and the meat of Eid-ul-Adha. The rest of the meat is cooked and enjoyed with family and friends to strengthen the bonds within this group. This is a four day event in which the Muslims try to carry out the sacrificing on each of the four days. Getting together with relatives and sharing with the underprivileged and needy instils value into this festival.
Muslims in Algeria consider this festival s time of worship to take part in generous acts and credit all blessings to Allah.
