The Story of Hajj and Eid al-Adha: A Journey of Faith and Sacrifice

Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world embark on a journey unlike any other. Dressed in simple white garments, they gather in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for Hajj, the sacred pilgrimage that traces the footsteps of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hajar (Hagar), and their son Isma'il (Ishmael). For Muslims, Hajj is more than a ritual—it is a profound spiritual experience and one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

The Origins of Hajj

The story begins over four thousand years ago, when Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) was commanded by God to leave his wife Hajar and their infant son Isma'il in the barren desert valley of Mecca. With faith in God's wisdom, Hajar ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah in search of water for her thirsty child. In response to her struggle and unwavering trust in God, a spring miraculously gushed forth from the earth—the Zamzam Well, which still flows to this day.

God later commanded Ibrahim to build the Kaaba, the cube-shaped structure at the center of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, as a house of worship. Muslims around the world face the Kaaba during prayer, and it remains the focal point of Hajj.

“And [mention] when We designated for Abraham the site of the House, [saying], ‘Do not associate anything with Me and purify My House for those who perform Tawaf and those who stand [in prayer] and those who bow and prostrate.’”
— Qur’an 22:26

The Pilgrimage Today

Hajj takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and consists of several days of spiritual rites:

  • Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)

  • Sa’i (reenacting Hajar’s search for water between Safa and Marwah)

  • Standing in prayer at Arafat, considered the pinnacle of Hajj

  • Stoning the pillars symbolizing rejection of evil

  • And finally, the sacrifice, which leads into Eid al-Adha

Every Muslim who is physically and financially able is expected to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime, as commanded by Allah:

“And Hajj to the House is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, for those who can find a way there.”
— Qur’an 3:97

Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice

At the conclusion of Hajj, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice.” This holiday commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his beloved son in obedience to God's command. Before the sacrifice could be completed, God intervened and provided a ram to be offered instead.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“It is the tradition of your father Ibrahim. For every hair of the Qurbani, you will receive a reward from Allah.”
— (Tirmidhi)

Muslims mark the occasion by offering the Qurbani (sacrifice) of an animal such as a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat is distributed in three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbors, and one-third for those in need.

Eid al-Adha is a time of prayer, charity, and community. Muslims begin the day with a special congregational prayer, followed by sermons and gatherings. It's a day to remember the values of submission to God, compassion for others, and gratitude for blessings.

How Muslims Celebrate Around the World

While only a small percentage of Muslims are able to perform Hajj each year, Eid al-Adha is celebrated by Muslims everywhere, including right here in the United States. For those not attending the pilgrimage, the days leading up to Eid are still considered spiritually significant and are often spent in extra prayers, fasting, and charitable acts.

On Eid morning, Muslims gather at mosques, Islamic centers, or open fields to perform the special Eid prayer, which includes a brief sermon. It is a joyous occasion where families dress in their best clothes, exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid), and share meals together.

Many families also take part in the ritual animal sacrifice by either doing it themselves (where permitted) or donating to trusted organizations that carry out the sacrifice on their behalf. The meat is then shared generously, particularly with those experiencing hardship.

In cities across the U.S., including here at [Masjid Name], Eid al-Adha is often marked by:

  • Community festivals and carnivals

  • Food drives and meal-sharing with the homeless and underserved

  • Educational events to help friends and neighbors learn more about Islamic traditions

  • Visits with family and friends, emphasizing love, forgiveness, and unity

Eid becomes a beautiful opportunity to live out Islamic values in everyday life—caring for others, being thankful, and renewing one’s sense of purpose.

Why It Matters

To those unfamiliar with Islam, Hajj and Eid al-Adha may seem distant in practice, but their core messages are universal: faith, sacrifice, equality, and service to humanity.

During Hajj, distinctions of race, wealth, and nationality vanish. Pilgrims wear the same clothes and perform the same rites. It is a powerful reminder of human equality and the unity of purpose before God.

“O mankind! We created you from a single male and female and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another. Verily, the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.”
— Qur’an 49:13

In Conclusion

Whether through the awe-inspiring gathering in Mecca or the local community celebrations of Eid al-Adha, these sacred traditions invite all of us—Muslim and non-Muslim alike—to reflect on devotion, humility, and generosity. They tell a timeless story of love, trust, and surrender to a higher calling.

If you're curious to learn more or witness the Eid celebrations, Islamic Center of Riverside is open every day. Join us in experiencing the beauty of faith in action.