Soon, millions of Muslims across the globe will come together to begin celebrating Eid al-Adha on August, 20 2018. If you are familiar with Islam’s culture you probably know that it is one of the two major festivals in Islam, the second largest religion in the world. Known as the Feast of Sacrifice or “big Eid,” this holy celebration marks the end of the Hajj. The Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca and commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to follow God’s will to sacrifice his son.
Despite this trouble beginning to the tale, Eid al-Adha is a joyous occasion. It is time to celebrate and unite with family and friends. Around 2 billion Muslims share similar traditions observing the festival, however, depending on the region Eid festivities may vary and have its own unique cultural touch. So, which countries celebrate Eid al-Adha around the world?
Indonesia
Indonesia is home to the largest Muslim population in the world (12.7% of the world’s Muslims). On the morning of Eid al-Adha over 200 million Muslims dress in their best clothes and gather together for Eid prayers at mosques. It doesn’t matter which part of the world you live in, but prayers, followed by Eid gift exchanges are the same for everyone.
Best Eid al-Adha Gift Ideas for Indonesia
So, what Eid al-Adha gift to Indonesia can you send to someone if alcohol, leather products, pork, perfume, and personal items are off limits? I’d say, go with a gourmet gift. Over 300 ethnic groups call Indonesia home making its cuisine one of the most vibrant and diverse in the world. Choose something international yet eclectic for the region, like a gourmet gift basket. A gift that includes an assortment of some world’s most popular cheeses and savory snacks will be the perfect choice for your Indonesian friends or family members. Our Fromage Gourmand basket has it all to make the celebration truly special.
Pakistan
In Pakistan, Eid al-Adha is observed for 4 days. On the day of Eid people spend the morning in prayers followed by performing the act of Qurbani (religious, humane sacrifice of an animal) and a big family feast. The tradition of Qurbani originated from the stories in sacred texts about the time Ibrahim demonstrated his obedience to Allah, by agreeing to sacrifice his son. Allah allowed him to sacrifice a sheep instead and to spare his son’s life.
Even in the modern day, many Muslim families who can afford it sacrifice their best halal sheep, goat, camel or cow on this holiday. Those who cannot afford to buy an animal chip in with other families. Now you can even order a goat for Eid through an app and it will be delivered to your house whenever you want. What an example of tradition meeting progress!
The Qurbani tradition, which is natural for Muslims, can be a cultural shock for outsiders. It’s important to remember that the Islam religion requires kindness to one’s animals, as well as humane methods of slaughter – particularly for religious rites. Once the animal is prepared, its meat is divided into three parts. The first is used to cook the festival feast, the second portion is offered to relatives and neighbors, and the third is given to the poor. No one goes hungry on Eid. Knowing that this tradition is performed humanely and the meat is given away to help their community makes sure that they get the most out of each sacrifice.
According to the Pakistan Tanners’ Association around 10 million animals are slaughtered during the two days of Eid al-Adha in Pakistan alone. It might sound horrendous, but did you know that we kill over 45 million turkeys for Thanksgiving? Just saying.
Best Eid al-Adha Gift Ideas for Pakistan
Wondering what Eid gift to Pakistan you can give to your friends and family members? Along with meat, the Eid table is always full of traditional snacks such as dried fruit and nuts. Make sure your dear ones have everything they need to celebrate one of the most significant festivals by sending something like our Healthy Grazing gift right on time for the celebration.
India
India has the third largest number of Muslim population in the world following Indonesia and Pakistan. Since the time Islam arrived in India a thousand years ago, the Eid is celebrated like everywhere else and animals are sacrificed. But unlike other countries cow is considered sacred in India, and its sacrifice is banned. Instead people slaughter goats and then distribute its meat to friends, neighbors and the poor.
Best Eid al-Adha Gift Ideas for India
If you want to send an Eid gift to India, nothing brightens the holiday table like a beautiful basket full of fresh fruit. A Fruity-licious hamper overflowing with appetizing seasonal and exotic fruit will make a wonderful gift the whole family can enjoy during the celebration.
Egypt
Eid al-Adha is more commonly known in Egypt as Eid el-Kibr. The festival starts off like everywhere else. Eid Prayers followed by a sermon and a family gathering with a huge feast. Charity is very popular during Eid in Egypt and people donate Qurbani meat as well as other food very generously to those in need.
Best Eid al-Adha Gift Ideas for Egypt
In contrast to Eid ul-Fitr, which is also called the “Sweet Eid” for its variety of sweet dishes, Eid ul-Adha is nicknamed “Salty Eid” for the abundance of savory food on the table. To make the holiday a tad sweeter for those you love and respect, send them a Pinky Out Gift Basket to Egypt that includes an assortment of cookies, chocolate and other delicious treats everyone can enjoy.
UK, US & Europe
Muslims living in Western countries no doubt miss the Eid festivities back home but that doesn’t dampen their spirits nor their celebrations. While in the US or any European country, some traditions may be adjusted, people still closely observe traditions and attend Eid prayers and have a huge feast with family and friends.
Best Eid al-Adha Gift Ideas Around The World
Usually friends will visit one another, go to a restaurant or rent out a park to celebrate Eid al-Adha. Or they can spend the day calling family overseas, and leave visiting friends for some other time. People also eat a lot of sweets, whether traditional baklava or good old chocolate. Sending Western Muslims a chocolate gift basket for Eid al-Adha is a great gesture that will not only demonstrate your thoughtfulness but also make their celebration complete.
Wherever your friends and family are this Eid al-Adha, sending them a gift will show your love and generosity. From food gifts to charming flowers, all will be a welcome sight this month as they open their homes, and hearts, to the holiday.
Ready to celebrate one of the major Muslim holidays?
– Pick the perfect Eid al-Adha gift in our Ramadan and Eid catalog
– Spread the knowledge by sharing this article
– Keep on reading about other Tips To Make Your Eid-Ul-Adha Gift Perfect
One of the longest-standing members of the GiftBasketsOverseas.com family, Kate is creative, responsible and meticulous. No matter what she’s doing – for the company or in her personal life – Kate always tries to put her best foot forward and enjoy the process.