CHICAGO: Thousands of Muslims from all over the Chicago metropolitan area joyfully bustled in to join in on the global celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha at different locations throughout Illinois on Sunday October 5.
While there were various venues that held Eid prayers throughout the region, one of the largest turnouts was at the Bristol Court Banquet. The block was quite a sight to passersby. Groups of individuals in vibrant Indian-Pakistani clothing flooded the parking lots as they made their way to the exquisite banquet hall to commemorate the glorious day.
Greetings Muslims across Illinois State, Governor Pat Quinn said that “Eid al-Adha – the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’ – is a holiday during which we share with those who are hungry, sick or in need. “During this special time, we are reminded that sacrifice and compassion are two qualities necessary to make the world a better place and assure no one is left behind. “In the spirit of humility and warmth, I wish Illinois’ 500,000 Muslim residents and Muslims a blessed Eid,” Quinn said
Women in vibrant colored dresses, men in ethnic outfits and children, smiling and laughing, filled the parking lots and were pouring into the hotel lobby. As individuals worked through the crowded doorways, volunteers from Eid committee gathered funds and demonstrating true Islamic generosity, many emptied their pockets and purses into the collecting bins before taking their shoes off and heading into the prayer halls. Men and women continuously and open-heartedly made space for incoming members so everyone would be able to partake in the Prayer (Salah).
Many leaders from many different fields such as medical, sports entertainment, political, teaching spiritual leaders and prominent community leader were present at Eid prayer. Iftekhar Shareef, well known businessman and prominent community leader and Consul General of India Dr Ausaf Sayeed with entire families were present at 10:30 am Salah. Iftekhar Shareef wished Indian community a very Happy Dussehra, Durga Pooja and a happy Batukamma.
Prayer (Salah) was recited throughout the morning and afternoon to accommodate the 8,000 enthusiastic crowds effortlessly and efficiently.
Eid Ul Adha is celebrated all over the world as a symbol of sacrifice and to commemorate the attempt of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his own son Ismaeel as God asked him to do so. Prophet Ibrahim was tested by God to sacrifice his loved one and he submitted to the Command of God and took his son Ismaeel to the hill for a sacrifice but as he was about to slaughter Ismaeel, he was replaced by a goat.
Muslims commemorate the incident by sacrificing animals. The meat is distributed among poor and relatives.
Over a billion Muslims celebrated Eid Ul Adha all around the world. More than 2 million pilgrims performed Hajj and celebrated Eid in Makkah. This year Hajj Arafat day happened to be a Friday.
“EID Is the combination of three meaningful words, E – Embrace with open heart, I – Inspire with impressive attitude and D – Distribute pleasure to all. Warm wishes on “Eid-Ul-Adha” and wishing that it brings your way ever joys and happiness. Eid Mubarak,” said Iftekhar Shareef of the Central Eid Committee of Greater Chicago.
A.Q. Siddiqui
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