Thousands celebrate Eid

Thousands of Muslims yesterday gathered at Kigali Regional Stadium in Nyamirambo to mark the beginning of the four-day Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha which commenced with a prayer led by the Mufti, Sheikh Abdul Karim Gahutu.Eid al-Adha – the Feast of Sacrifice – is one of the most important holidays on the Islamic calendar. It includes a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, known as “Hajj”, which is one of the five pillars of Islam and can be undertaken by any Muslim.The holiday honours Prophet Abraham’s willingness to obey God’s command to sacrifice his first born as an act of submission, and his son’s acceptance to be sacrificed, before God intervened to provide Abraham with a lamb to be offered.“The sacrifice made by Muslims on this day should signify righteousness amongst them and as well be a joyous moment for believers and others from different religions,” said Gahutu.Muslims the world over, slaughter a four legged animal in commemoration of this day. The meat is then distributed amongst the family and neighbours as well as the needy. But before the slaughter, men, women and children alike flock to mosques to take part in prayers.Sheikh Gahutu’s preaching dwelt mostly on retaining family bonds among married people.“Muslims have to contribute to the good cause of their country, that is why on a day like this, I encourage all of them to contribute towards the Agaciro Development Fund and other initiatives,” he said.Muslims use the Eid al-Adha holiday to reflect on the year gone by looking at their challenges and achievements and to also express gratitude on their blessings, the gift of life and good health.They also use the time to focus on the less privileged, reaching out to those around them in the form of community work and praying for others.

National

Thousands celebrate Eid