The Story Behind Bakrid (Eid al-Adha)

The story of Bakrid goes back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him).
Prophet Ibrahim was a true and devoted servant of Allah. He was tested many times, and each time he showed complete submission to the will of Allah.

One night, he had a dream in which Allah commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (Ishmael, peace be upon him). Ibrahim (AS) knew that this was not an ordinary dream but a divine command.

Prophet Ibrahim loved his son dearly, but his love for Allah was greater. To confirm, he saw the dream three nights in a row, each time receiving the same command.

He then spoke to his son Ismail (AS) and said:
“O my dear son, I have seen in a dream that I am sacrificing you. So think about what you have to say.”

Ismail (AS), who was obedient and pious even as a young boy, replied with full faith:
“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, Insha’Allah, among the patient.”

With a heavy heart but unwavering faith, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) took his son to Mount Mina (near Makkah). He laid him down and placed a knife on his neck to sacrifice him for the sake of Allah.

At that very moment, Allah intervened. A miracle happened:

• Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram (sheep) from Paradise.
• Ismail (AS) remained unharmed.
• Allah declared that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had successfully passed the ultimate test of faith and obedience.

Allah was testing Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion. By showing willingness to sacrifice his most beloved possession, Ibrahim (AS) proved his complete submission to Allah’s will.

Allah says in the Qur’an (Surah As-Saffat, 37:107):
“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”

This event became a symbol of sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to Allah.

Eid al-Adha (Bakrid) commemorates this great act of faith.

• Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal (usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel) to honor the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
• The meat is divided into three parts:
  1. One-third for the family.
  2. One-third for relatives and friends.
  3. One-third for the poor and needy.

This sharing teaches Muslims about charity, equality, and caring for others.

• It reminds Muslims of the importance of obedience to Allah.
• It teaches that faith and submission come before personal desires.
• It highlights the values of sacrifice, patience, and compassion.

✨ In short, Bakrid is not only about animal sacrifice, but about the spirit of sacrifice for Allah, putting His command above everything else, and helping those in need.