By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — In observance of Eid al-Adha, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has declared June 17, Monday, as a regular holiday.
Proclamation No. 579, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on June 4, stated that Eid’l Adha is one of the two greatest feasts of Islam.
This proclamation was made upon the recommendation of the National Commission on Filipinos, based on the 1445 Hijrah Islamic Lunar Calendar.
Under Republic Act No. 9848, the 10th day of Zhul Hijja, the 12th month of the Islamic Calendar, is a national holiday for the observance of Eid al-Adha, with a movable date.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham in Judeo-Christian tradition) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God’s command.
However, before he could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. This story is mentioned in both the Quran and the Bible.
During Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate Ibrahim’s obedience by sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, and distributing its meat among family, friends, and those in need.
The act of sacrifice symbolizes their willingness to give up something of value to follow God’s commands and to share with those less fortunate.
Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
It concludes the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which millions of Muslims undertake each year.
The holiday lasts for about three days and includes prayers, feasting, and charitable acts.
(e/ Amigo/mnm)