Saudi Arabia has officially announced the date of Eid Ul Adha and the significant day of Arafah.
In a statement released on Sunday, June 18, 2023, Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon for the month of Dhul Hijah 1444. As a result, the first day of Dhul Hijah will be observed on Monday, June 19.
The statement emphasized the importance of these dates for the Muslim Ummah and urged everyone to take note.
The Day of Arafat (9 Dhul Hijjah) is scheduled for June 27, 2023, followed by Eid Al Adha (10 Dhul Hijjah) on June 28, 2023.
Dhul Hijjah,
Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, carries immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It marks the time of the annual pilgrimage, Hajj, which takes place in the holy city of Mecca. Additionally, it signifies the observance of Eid ul-Adha, also known as Bakra Eid, Bakrid, Bakhreid, Eid al-Adha, Eid Qurban, Qurban Bayarami, or the Feast of Sacrifice, on the tenth day of the month.
Dhul Hijjah is considered sacred and serves as a period of increased devotion, reflection, and acts of worship. During the first ten days, Muslims engage in various acts of worship and good deeds, as these days are believed to be particularly blessed. Fasting, recitation of the Qur’an, charitable giving, and additional prayers are encouraged during this time, as they are believed to bring great rewards and blessings.
The highlight of Dhul Hijjah is the Hajj pilgrimage, during which Muslims from all over the world embark on a spiritual journey, performing a series of rituals in Mecca and its surroundings. Hajj is obligatory for physically able Muslims who can afford the journey, and it is a time of unity, humility, and seeking closeness to Allah. The rituals performed during Hajj, such as circumambulating the Kaaba, standing on the plains of Arafat, and symbolically stoning the devil, have historical ties to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid or the Festival of Sacrifice, is observed on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to God’s command. Muslims worldwide celebrate this day by offering prayers, sacrificing animals (such as sheep, goats, camels, or cows), and distributing the meat to the less fortunate. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and generosity, emphasizing faith, sacrifice, and unity among Muslims.
Dhul Hijjah serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, kindness, and charitable deeds. Muslims seize the opportunity to strengthen their relationship with Allah, seek forgiveness, and reflect on their purpose in life.
The spiritual significance of Dhul Hijjah rejuvenates believers worldwide, emphasizing the importance of faith and spirituality. This year, Saudi Arabia has called upon Muslims throughout the Kingdom to observe the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of June 18, 2023, which will determine the official dates for Eid Al Adha 2023. The Supreme Court has encouraged those capable of participating to join the regional committees assigned to this purpose, demonstrating their interest in the matter.
