Pakistan marks Eid al-Adha with prayers, sacrifices, and messages of solidarity

Muslims across Pakistan observed Eid al-Adha on Saturday with religious devotion and fervor, commemorating the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael).

The day began with special prayers held at mosques across the country, where worshippers prayed for the well-being of Muslims across the world and for peace and prosperity in Pakistan.

Large congregations gathered at mosques, Eidgahs, and open grounds in cities, towns, and villages to offer Eid prayers.

Pakistani Muslims gather to perform the Eid Al-Adha prayer at Eidgah Ground in Karachi, Pakistan on June 07, 2025 AFP

Qurbani, the sacrifice

Religious scholars delivering Eid sermons emphasized the significance of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, a foundational act that symbolizes faith, obedience, and selflessness in Islam. Worshippers later participated in the ritual animal sacrifice, known as Qurbani, following the Sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Ibrahim.

Municipal administrations across urban and rural areas made arrangements for the safe disposal of animal waste and offal, aiming to maintain cleanliness during the three-day holiday period.

Butchers tie the legs of camels before sacrifice during the celebration of Eid al-Adha, the feast of sacrifice, in Peshawar on June 7, 2025.AFP

In official Eid messages, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended greetings to the Pakistani nation and the global Muslim community. Both leaders underscored the values of sacrifice, unity, and compassion that the festival promotes.

“The day revives in us the spirit of faith, sacrifice, selflessness, and brotherhood,” President Zardari said. He urged citizens to integrate these values into their daily lives and to extend support to the underprivileged and marginalized segments of society.

Prime Minister Sharif echoed similar sentiments, stating that Eid al-Adha is not merely about the ritual sacrifice of animals, but also about surrendering personal interests for the greater good. “As our beloved homeland moves forward on the path of development, we must embrace the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and selflessness,” he said.

Prayers for Palestine, Kashmir

Sharif also used the occasion to express solidarity with Muslims facing hardship globally. “We must remember our Palestinian brothers and sisters enduring ruthless oppression and hunger, and reaffirm our unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle for self-determination,” he added.

Pakistan’s military leadership, including Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, also conveyed Eid greetings. They paid tribute to the families of fallen soldiers, acknowledging their sacrifices in the service of peace and the nation.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the 'Festival of Sacrifice', is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Zul-Hijjah, coinciding with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.