My Specials Moments of Eid Al-adha
Eid al-Adha is celebrated by all Muslims around the world, coinciding with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. Therefore, for those who are unable to travel to the holy land, it is highly recommended to perform the qurban ritual. The Hajj pilgrimage and the sacrifice ritual are evidence of a servant's devotion to Allah SWT, and on that day, it is also utilized as an opportune time to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among Muslims. Thus, there are always special moments that occur during this precious occasion, such as some of the moments I experienced.
I heard the takbir echoes still sound wonderfully piercing the quiet after dawn, and I Opening my house door slowly, I let the fresh, cool, and holy wind caress my face. Though unexpected, the cold is calming as it seems to wash away all stored anxieties. While my eyes are fixed on the sky, which changes from deep darkness to a profound blue and then streaks of pink and orange start to dance on the eastern horizon, greeting the first rays of the sun that will lighten the holy day, I sit on the terrace and exhale slowly.
Khalif and I visited the Babul Falah Mosque in Bukit Tempurung Village, we conducted the two-rakah Eid al-Adha prayer with extreme respect with hundreds of other worshipers. After following the takbir and ruku' our focus shifted to the khatib on the podium, who began his sermon in a subdued but emotive tone. Every word spoken replayed the noble tale of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail's genuineness, a classic tale that underpins the history of the sacrifice ritual. It seemed we were urged to examine the actual significance of sacrifice, which is not only a religious duty but also a lesson.
My mother and wife served the traditional Eid day foods that we always look forward to, include lontong rices, served with chewy yellow noodles, spicy and savory chili tauco, tender rendang meat with rich spices, and equally delicious rendang potatoes, all served with gravy and crispy crackers. The pleasing scent draws our family to the dining table, filling the whole home. This is more than just satisfying our hunger; rather, it is a gathering ceremony that connects us in joy and warmth and becomes an unforgettable custom on every eid day event.
I led my feet led to the grave of my father, he died at the beginning of 2025. Seeking forgiveness and peace for the souls gone, I sat by the burial amid the vast expanse of the sky, repeating passages from the Holy Quran. Heartfelt, I laid fresh flowers over the earth, then watered the tombstone and the soil. Every gesture showed great love and regard. Furthermore, this served not only to remember but also to remind us that all life on Earth is fleeting, a soul mirror confirming time's boundaries.
My youngest child, Keenan, turned into three years old, so my wife lovingly created a chocolate birthday cake with bright rainbow decorations in addition to it tasty. Keenan's eyes light up with delight as soon as the cake is brought before him; he can't resist starting to sing and dance as though the cake were the most wonderful gift he could receive today. His face showed impatience to savor the sweetness with two older brothers. And sure enough, half the cake was devoured by them in no time as soon the signal was given, leaving chocolate smears and crumbs of smiles on their innocent faces.
My family and I carried out the ritual slaughter of a cow as an act of obedience and offering to Allah SWT, though our cow had a shining brown hide glistening in the sun and was rather magnificent, its tranquility really struck us most. I see the cow sat silently as though it sensed no panic or worry before its turn arrived, it seemed to emanate a deep sense of surrender, as though it had totally accepted its destiny to be sacrificed in compliance with the Creators instruction. It was a great lesson reminding us of genuine obedience from us who sacrificed and from the sacrificial cow voluntarily giving itself.
My mothers younger sisters family came to visit our house, hence there was warm chat and laughter created, so to increase the feeling of unity, we chose to hold barbecue with the sacrificed cow's meat that we had just been given. We was thinking to offer variety we not only cooked beef but also meatballs and sausages to make sure everyone discovered their preferred meal. The smoke poured, the rich scent of grilled meat permeated the air with the stream of stories and talks. Every bite was tastier eaten with close family members.
I got back together with some old friends that I hadn't seen in a while because of our respective hectic work schedules and distance. We therefore decided to meet at our favorite coffee shop as soon as we had the chance. As soon as we sat down, the smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the room, and we instantly felt the familiar atmosphere. We talked about our experiences and life journeys and exchanged information. There was a smooth transition between serious and humorous topics. This was evidence to us that we had developed a genuine friendship.
All the moments I shared above have become part of what colors my life, filling my time with quality within the beautiful framework of brotherhood. I also pray that Allah SWT continues to bestow His blessings upon us all as we navigate the next chapters of our lives.
Thanks for Team 07
Cc: @wirngo