Letters | Does Hong Kong know it’s Eid ul-Adha?
Readers discuss awareness of an important Islamic festival, the plight of refugees, and global apathy towards the Gaza tragedy
This year, Eid ul-Adha is being celebrated today in Hong Kong, as in many other Muslim communities across Asia.
Often called the “Festival of Sacrifice”, it is one of the most important events in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the profound faith and obedience of the prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son in submission to God’s will. At the last moment, God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
The ritual sacrifice of an animal – usually a sheep, goat or cow – is central to the celebration. But Eid ul-Adha is about far more than the act of slaughter. It is a time of reflection, generosity and community spirit. The meat is traditionally divided into three portions: one for family, one for friends and neighbours, and one for the less fortunate.
Despite its deep spiritual and social significance, Eid ul-Adha has attracted controversy in Western media, particularly over animal welfare.
It is important to clarify that Islamic law places great emphasis on kindness towards animals. The animal to be sacrificed must be healthy, treated gently and slaughtered swiftly with a sharp knife while invoking God.