Muslims all over the world observe Eid-ul Adha (in Arabic) or Hari Raya Aidil Adha (in Malay) on the 10th day of Zulhijah, the last month of the Muslim calendar. The corresponding Gregorian date this year is on 1st February 2004. This festival is celebrated in conjunction with the pilgrimages performed by Muslims, called the Haj and to commemorate Prophet Abraham?s spirit of Qurban or sacrifice. Thus, in Singapore, Hari Raya Aidil Adha is also known as Hari Raya Haji or Hari Raya Qurban.
The Haj is a pilgrimage to the holy places in and around the holy city of Mecca (the birthplace of Islam) in Saudi Arabia where pilgrims will perform certain religious rituals and prayers. It is one of the central religious duties of Muslims and is enshrined in the Quran. According to the fifth tenet of Islam, Muslims who are financially and physically able are required to perform a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage is also inspired by the earlier example of obedience to God set by the Prophet of Abraham. Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
"Happy Eid-ul Adha"
From: Tirosina Calcium