Bakrid, also popularly known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important festivals of Muslims. The festival is marked by diverse cultural traditions and customs around the world. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God's command. Bakrid falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. If the moon is sighted, Eid-ul-Adha 2024 will be be celebrated on June 16, otherwise, it will be on June 17. It must be noted that the date varies each year according to the Islamic lunar calendar and is determined by the sighting of the moon. Know Bakrid 2024 date and significance as Muslims gear up to celebrate Eid-al-Adha.

According to Islamic tradition, just as Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son, God intervened and provided a lamb to sacrifice. In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijja and lasts for four days. In the international (Gregorian) calendar, the dates vary from year to year, shifting approximately 11 days earlier each year.

Bakrid 2024 Date

Depending on the sighting of the moon, Bakrid 2024 is likely to be celebrated on June 16. If the moon is not sighted on this day, Eid-ul-Adha 2024 is likely to be celebrated on June 17.

Bakrid Significance and Rituals

Bakrid or Eid al-Adha is the second of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam. As per traditional beliefs, Ishmael is referred to with the title ‘Sacrifice of God’. However, before Abraham could sacrifice his son in the name of God, and because of his willingness to do so, God provided him with a lamb to sacrifice in his son's place. Hence, to mark this intervention, animals such as lambs are sacrificed. On this day, Muslims make the sacrifice as a ritual and slaughter specific four-legged animals.

The meat of the sacrificed animal is divided into three portions: one part of the meat is consumed by the family that offers the animal, one portion is for friends and relatives, while the rest of the meat is distributed to the poor and the needy. On the day of Bakrid, Muslims gather in mosques or open spaces to perform special prayers, known as Eid prayers or Salah, in the morning. Bakrid is a joyous time for families to come together, share meals, exchange gifts and express gratitude.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 16, 2024 09:13 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).