Around the Globe Unite in Joyful Observance of Eidul Azha
On Wednesday, Gulf nations celebrated Eidul Azha with great enthusiasm and devotion. The occasion was marked by large gatherings for prayers across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Middle Eastern countries. In Saudi Arabia, the grandest gatherings for Eid prayers took place at Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid-e-Nabawi in Makkah and Medina, respectively. Additionally, Saudi and foreign citizens offered Eid prayers in more than 12,000 mosques throughout the country.
Millions of Muslims from around the world congregated at these two holy sites, joining in prayers and celebrating Eid. Notably, Pakistani citizens were among the many foreigners who participated in the prayers held in the mosques of the Saudi capital, Riyadh, as well as other cities and villages. Following the prayers, believers exchanged greetings for Eid and carried out the traditional act of sacrificing animals.
The Saudi leadership, including King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, extended Eidul Azha greetings to leaders of Islamic countries. In their messages, they emphasized the development and prosperity of the Muslim world. Similar celebrations and prayers were observed in small and large mosques across the UAE. Despite restrictions imposed by Israeli forces, Palestinians also offered prayers at Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.
The historic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul hosted an Eid congregation, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an extending his felicitations to the people of his country. Furthermore, countries like Australia, the UK, various European nations, the US, and Canada also celebrated Eidul Azha on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, Eidul Azha was celebrated with religious fervor on Thursday. The day began with special prayers in mosques for the well-being of the Muslim world, as well as progress, prosperity, and security within the country. Eid congregations were held in mosques, Eidgahs, and open spaces across all cities, towns, and villages. During their sermons, religious scholars likely highlighted the significance of the sacrifice made by Hazrat Ibrahim and Hazrat Ismail.
Civic authorities in Pakistan made special arrangements for the disposal of offal and other solid waste during the Eid days. World leaders, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, sent their wishes and blessings to Muslims celebrating Eidul Azha. They emphasized the values of compassion, solidarity, and the importance of unity during these times of division and conflict.
Notably, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended his wishes to Muslims in Canada and worldwide. He reassured the freedom for everyone to practice their faith without fear and expressed his commitment to stand against Islamophobia and hatred in all its forms. The Canadian government's ongoing efforts, including the appointment of a Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, were highlighted as part of their commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all.
Overall, the celebrations of Eidul Azha brought together Muslims from various parts of the world, promoting unity, compassion, and the spirit of sacrifice.
The festive spirit of Eidul Azha was not limited to the Gulf nations and Middle East alone; it resonated globally. World leaders and prominent figures from different countries took to social media to extend their heartfelt greetings to Muslims around the world.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed his wishes for a joyous Eid, emphasizing the values of sacrifice, compassion, and charity that are central to the celebration. He acknowledged the contributions of Muslim communities in the UK and their commitment to making a positive impact.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison also sent his warm wishes, highlighting the significance of Eidul Azha and its message of devotion, gratitude, and generosity. He acknowledged the importance of diversity and inclusivity within Australia and the contributions of the Muslim community.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel conveyed her Eid greetings, emphasizing the importance of compassion, respect, and understanding among diverse cultures and faiths. She expressed her hope that the occasion would foster peace and solidarity among people worldwide.
French President Emmanuel Macron extended his wishes for a blessed Eid, highlighting the values of sharing and solidarity. He stressed the importance of preserving social cohesion and promoting dialogue and mutual respect among communities.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his greetings to the Muslim community, emphasizing the spirit of unity, fraternity, and compassion. He expressed his hope that the occasion would strengthen the bonds of harmony and peace in society.
In addition to political leaders, religious leaders and organizations also shared their messages of goodwill. Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, offered his prayers for Muslims celebrating Eidul Azha, emphasizing the importance of fraternity and interfaith dialogue.
These global messages of unity, compassion, and respect underscored the universal significance of Eidul Azha and its values. The celebrations served as a reminder of the shared humanity and the importance of coming together, regardless of cultural or religious differences, to foster peace and harmony in the world.
0 Comments