Azerbaijanis celebrate Eid al-Adha with unity, tradition, and faith

Azerbaijan is marking the celebration of Gurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha) today, one of the two major holidays in Islam, observed by Muslims around the world.

This year, the official holiday dates in Azerbaijan fall on June 6–7, Caliber.Az reports.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the Quranic story of the Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) devotion to God, symbolised by his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to divine command. The holiday is traditionally marked by communal prayers, acts of charity, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock such as sheep, goats, cows, or camels. The meat is customarily divided among family members, neighbours, and especially those in need, underscoring the values of compassion and social solidarity.

Today, special holiday prayers are being held in mosques across Azerbaijan. In accordance with Islamic tradition, the ritual sacrifice may be performed at any point during the three days of the holiday.

The Azerbaijani people are celebrating Gurban Bayram this year as a nation that has triumphed, including on territories that were liberated in recent years.

President Ilham Aliyev extended warm greetings to the Azerbaijani people in honour of Gurban Bayram. In his message, the head of state offered his sincere wishes for happiness, prosperity, and well-being to all citizens.

The Council of Qadis of the Caucasus Muslim Board has issued religious guidance for the observance of the holiday. According to Islamic requirements, sacrifice is obligatory for those performing the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. Elsewhere, it is considered a virtuous act for those who are financially able to carry out the sacrifice and share the meat with the poor and disadvantaged.

While sheep are generally regarded as the preferred sacrificial animal, goats, cows, and camels are also permissible. Individuals may divide the meat as they choose, but sharing with the needy is especially encouraged as a practice aligned with the spiritual essence of Islam.

According to Hadiths, prayers offered during the night and day of Gurban Bayram are particularly accepted by God.

Notably, Gurban Bayram has been declared a public holiday in Azerbaijan, with non-working days observed across the country.

By Tamilla Hasanova