Every year in the month of Zilhaj, Muslims around the world gather in the Holy city of Makkah to observe the Sunnat-e-Ibrahimi (the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim). As an obligation, and to recreate the sentiments of sunnat-e-ibrahimi Muslims all across the world who are affluent sacrifice animals for the sake of Allah. As a reverence to the Holy Prophet Ismail (A.S), the religious obligation is performed with great responsibility.
The Hajj pilgrimage is also a symbol of unity for Muslims where Muslims collectively vow to adhere to the Islamic principles and invigorate the concept of ummah – the concept that Muslims are one entity without any prejudices. Sunnat-e-ibrahimi is a major component of the Hajj, and the sacrifice of animals is not only a symbolic gesture rather there is a whole philosophy behind this religious norm. The religious norm is also a reminder of the fact that we shall return to Almighty Allah one day, and we should not refrain or abstain from making sacrifices in the way of Allah.
No doubt sacrificing animals is a religious act however, its essence also transcends to the social realm. The apparent aspect of the norm only pertains to sacrificing animals; however, social aspects like selflessness, harmony, acceptance, and negation of personal interests are concealed in this act. Similarly, this religious rite also reminds us of the fact that we should give away a portion of our wealth in charity or either to the poor in order to keep the essence of sacrifice alive. The sacrifice given by people keeps the society enliven and also prepares Muslims not to shy away from giving sacrifice at any point in time.
Thus, it is a social responsibility of Muslims not to cage this ritual only as a religious practice rather its true meaning should benefit society as a whole. As mentioned earlier, a person should try to be altruistic and should remain content. Similarly, the idea of selflessness in our daily lives should be adopted and a person should be able to exercise the concept in true meanings. Furthermore, one should sacrifice its ego and keep the spirit of forgiveness alive.
To stay updated, visit Agency21 blog.
