Eid ul-Adha known as the “Festival of Sacrifice” is a commemoration that stretches far beyond its rituals. At its heart lies the profound story of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), a man whose life was a series of divine tests, trials of immense magnitude and unwavering obedience to Allah. It is a day rooted not in the sacrifice of animals alone but in the spirit of surrender, trust and cleansing of soul through sacrifice of ego, desires and worldly attachments. The story of Ibrahim, his noble wife Hajara (PBUH) and their son Ismail (PBUH) is not a tale of ancient times but a timeless lesson that our so-called modern society, drowning in materialism, fractured family systems and spiritual disconnect desperately needs to relearn.
Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) was not born into a community of believers. His society was deeply entrenched in idol worship, and to make matters difficult his own father was among the foremost idol-makers. As a young boy, Ibrahim questioned the beliefs of his people with logic and conviction. He looked at the stars, the moon, the sun and rejected each as divine. His reasoning was not based on rebellion but on deep reflection and innate faith in one true Creator. When he openly challenged the idols and eventually destroyed them to demonstrate their powerlessness, he was condemned and thrown into a blazing fire by his own people. Yet, the fire by the command of Allah became “cool and safe” for him. This trial perhaps the first major test in his life teaches a powerful lesson, standing for truth and submitting to Allah may alienate you from people, but it brings you under the direct protection of the Almighty.
In today’s world, standing up for truth often comes with a social cost. Whether it’s in school, at work or even within one’s family, adhering to moral and spiritual values can lead to isolation or ridicule. Many youth today fear speaking out against injustice, falsehood or immorality not because they don’t know what’s right, but because they lack the courage or support. Ibrahim’s early example tells us that the journey of faith often begins with standing alone and being willing to bear hardship for the sake of truth.
As Ibrahim grew older, his trials only intensified. He was commanded by Allah to leave his homeland, give up his comfort and migrate. Throughout his life, Ibrahim did not seek stability in worldly possessions or status. His purpose was singular, to fulfil Allah’s command and spread monotheism. He married Hajira, a woman of noble faith and character. When Allah instructed him to leave Hajara and their infant son Ismail in the barren valley of Makkah, Ibrahim complied without hesitation. The desert was lifeless, without water, shade or any civilization. He left them with only a small supply of food and water and walked away trusting fully in Allah’s wisdom; he used to visit them occasionally.
Hajira’s’s reaction is a powerful testament to her faith. She did not scream, protest or fall into despair. She asked only one question “Has Allah commanded you to do this?” When Ibrahim (A.S) nodded, she said, “Then HE will not abandon us.” This simple, profound statement of tawakkul (total trust in Allah) echoes through the ages. Imagine a woman left alone in an uninhabitable land with her child in arms, choosing faith over fear. Her patience, perseverance and utter dependence on Allah became so honoured that her struggle of running between the hills of Safa and Marwa searching for water is now a ritual enshrined in Hajj. Her search ended when by Allah’s mercy, water gushed forth from beneath Ismail’s feet. This spring, known as Zamzam, continues to flow to this day, an eternal reminder of the reward of sincere effort coupled with deep trust in Almighty. Hajira did not sit idle waiting for a miracle, she acted with urgency, faith and determination. Her actions changed the course of history.
Today’s society often places convenience above commitment. Many modern mothers find it difficult to raise children in favourable conditions, let alone in hardship. Complaints are common and gratitude is rare. The comparison is not to shame, but to inspire. Hajira raised a Prophet with limited means, in isolation and with total reliance on Allah. Her dignity, patience and sense of purpose should be the model for mothers and wives today. Many marriages today falter not due to major disasters, but due to minor inconveniences, unmet expectations or lack of spiritual unity. Hajira walked beside Ibrahim not just as a wife, but as a partner in faith. She supported his mission and nurtured his legacy. Her strength was not in words, but in her actions.
Prophet Ibrahim built the Kaaba with Ismail in Makkah as a place to worship Allah. This sacred act marked the foundation of monotheism, and he is still honoured today, especially during Hajj, where many rituals trace back to his legacy. Perhaps the most defining moment in Ibrahim’s life came when Allah commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail. This wasn’t just a test of obedience it was a test of love, trust and spiritual detachment. Ismail who had grown into a righteous young boy was a joy and source of pride for his father. Yet, when Ibrahim informed him of the dream which he understood as divine command, Ismail responded with the same faith: “Oh my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the patient.”
This mutual submission, this harmony in purpose between father and son, is astonishing. How many of today’s youth would respond with such calmness, such spiritual maturity? How many parents today are raising children whose first concern is their obedience to Almighty? In a world driven by entitlement and self-interest, this story shocks the modern conscience. As Ibrahim prepared to carry out the sacrifice, Allah intervened once again not because He needed blood or flesh, but because the test had been passed. A ram was sent in Ismail’s place and the moment was immortalised as a symbol of ultimate submission.
And so, every Eid ul-Adha Muslims around the world perform the ritual of Qurbani, animal sacrifice. Yet, how often do we reflect on the deeper meaning behind it? Allah says in the Qur’an: “It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:37). Eid ul-Adha is not about feasting, selfies with animals or measuring how many kilograms of meat one distributed. It is a day to ask oneself that What have I sacrificed for the sake of Allah? Have I given up bad habits? Have I overcome my ego? Have I placed my trust in Him in times of hardship?
In modern times, we have lost touch with the essence of sacrifice. We seek shortcuts, avoid discomfort, and measure success by worldly achievements. The story of Ibrahim teaches us that spiritual success lies in submission, in embracing difficulty for a higher purpose. His life was a series of sacrifices, his homeland, his relationships, his stability, even his beloved son. Yet, he gained what no worldly comfort could offer i.e., Allah’s pleasure, and the eternal title of Khalilullah, the Friend of Allah. Among the five fundamental pillars of Islam is Salah, which is performed five times a day. Within this essential act of worship, there is a specific supplication known as Durood Ibrahim, a prayer that is recited in every Salah, particularly in the final sitting (Tashahhud). In this supplication, Muslims invoke blessings not only upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family, but also make a direct reference to Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and his family. The wording of this dua is deeply meaningful: “O Allah, bless Muhammad (PBUH) and the family of Muhammad (PBUH) like You blessed Ibrahim (PBUH) and the family of Ibrahim (PBUH)”
This statement is not casual. It shows clearly that the honour and favor that Allah bestowed upon Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and his family is so great, so complete and so universally acknowledged that it becomes the very standard by which the blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family are sought. It is a clear sign of Prophet Ibrahim’s lofty status, chosen rank, and the enduring spiritual legacy he left for humanity. Indeed, the discussion ends here for anyone who truly reflects when Allah has enshrined such praise and recognition within the prayer itself, it is a clear and undeniable indication of how blessed and exalted Prophet Ibrahim is.
For families today, there is an urgent need to return to the model of Ibrahim’s household. He raised his children with foresight and intention. He made constant du’a for their guidance. He didn’t delegate spiritual education to others but he took personal responsibility. We must ask ourselves. Are we raising our children with values that will endure the trials of life? Are we teaching them resilience, gratitude, and submission? Are we, as spouses, walking shoulder to shoulder like Ibrahim and Hajira, or are we pulling in opposite directions, weakened by selfishness and worldly distractions? It is also to think that if a father complains why his son is not like Ismail, the father needs to introspect that if he himself is like the Ibrahim.
Eid ul-Adha must be a time of deep reflection. It is a reminder that true honour lies in obedience not status. That true wealth is in faith, not possessions. That true success is in passing the tests that Allah sends, not in avoiding them. Ibrahim passed every trial and in return, Allah made him the father of nations. His legacy runs through the veins of Prophets and the rituals of millions. He is not just a figure of history; he is a guide for life.
So, as we gather to celebrate Eid, let us shift our focus. Let the day not be just about meat, clothes and greetings. Let it be about rekindling our spiritual legacy. Let it be about making small sacrifices, letting go of grudges, detaching from sins, serving our families with love and submitting to Allah with sincerity. Let us make this Eid ul-Adha a turning point, a moment where we not only commemorate the story of Ibrahim but strive to embody it.
Peerzada Mohsin Shafi, from Anantnag, J&K, holds an M. Tech in Infrastructure Development & Management. He is a research scholar, columnist and has authored several research papers on project management and construction. He is a member of ASCE, IAENG, and IIQS.
