Eid’l Adha: Reflection on sacrifice, faith, unity in diversity

**media[]**Eid Mubarak!Today, June 6, Filipino Muslims join the global Islamic community in observing Eid’l Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice—one of the most sacred occasions in the Islamic calendar. Rooted in the Qur’anic account of the Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to the command of Allah or God, Eid’l Adha is a solemn yet celebratory affirmation of faith, obedience, and selflessness.This observance also marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, an act of devotion required of Muslims at least once in their lifetime, if physically and financially able. Eid’l Adha draws the faithful into a shared moment of reflection on the meaning of submission to Allah, and the virtues of trust, sacrifice, and compassion. It is a time of spiritual reflection imbued with community prayer, and acts of charity—particularly the ritual of Qurbani, or animal sacrifice, whose meat is distributed among family, friends, and those in need. In essence, Eid’l Adha embodies values that transcend religious boundaries: the willingness to surrender to a higher moral calling, the virtues of generosity and empathy, and the communal pursuit of peace and righteousness.Beyond its immediate religious significance, Eid’l Adha offers a profound moral and spiritual lesson that resonates across religious boundaries. The story of Ibrahim and his son Ismail —known in Judeo-Christian tradition as Isaac—forms a common thread in the Abrahamic faiths. The figure of Abraham, or Ibrahim, is revered not only in Islam but also in the Judeo-Christian tradition. In Genesis, Abraham is similarly prepared to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice before God intervenes. Though differing in narrative details—Islamic tradition names Ismail as the intended sacrifice, while the Bible names him Isaac—these traditions converge on a universal theme: the extraordinary faith of a servant willing to relinquish what is most precious to him in obedience to divine will.In Christianity, this theme finds its fullest expression in the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose crucifixion is interpreted by Christians as the ultimate act of redemptive love and divine submission. While theological interpretations diverge, the shared reverence for Abraham and the concept of sacrificial obedience serve as important points of spiritual kinship between Islam and Christianity.Recognizing these parallels does not diminish the uniqueness of each faith; rather, it invites a deeper appreciation of the values that unite us: fidelity to one’s beliefs, the struggle for moral integrity, and the call to serve others. These are values sorely needed in a world increasingly polarized by misunderstanding and intolerance.In the context of the Philippines—a nation characterized by its rich cultural and religious diversity—the observance of Eid’l Adha serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and interfaith harmony. It encourages the broader public to recognize the sincerity and devotion with which our Muslim brothers and sisters approach their faith. It is a sacred act of remembrance, a reaffirmation of spiritual duty, and a moment of collective humility.As we mark this important occasion, may it serve not only as a celebration for the Muslim community but also as an opportunity for all to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice, the strength of faith, and the enduring possibility of unity in diversity. Let this day be a chance not only to honor a profound act of faith but also to reflect on our own capacity for sacrifice, empathy, and obedience to higher ideals. In doing so, may we foster a society rooted in deeper mutual respect and spiritual kinship, regardless of creed.In honoring Eid’l Adha, we are also honoring the human longing for compassion and peace—a longing shared by all who seek the divine, whatever name they may use.