News & Observer | newsobserver.com | Schools get taste of Islamic holiday spirit

Published: Dec 19, 2007 12:00 AM
Modified: Dec 19, 2007 02:42 AM

Schools get taste of Islamic holiday spirit

 

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TRADITIONS OF EID AL-ADHA

WHAT IS EID AL-ADHA? It's the Festival of Sacrifice, and it comes at the end of the Hajj, an annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

WHAT DOES EID AL-ADHA COMMEMORATE? During the Hajj, Muslims commemorate the trials and triumphs of Abraham, who Muslims believe was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Ishmael. As Abraham prepared to fulfill the command, God intervened and proclaimed that Abraham had already demonstrated his devotion.

WHY DO MUSLIMS SACRIFICE AN ANIMAL ON THIS DAY? It reminds Muslims that Allah has given humans power over animals but only if they pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE MEAT? One-third is eaten by family and relatives, one-third is given to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes a willingness to give up things that are important in order to follow Allah's commands, to share bounties with those in need and to strengthen relationships.

WHAT ELSE DO MUSLIMS DO TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY? On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. Prayers are followed by visits with family and friends, and the exchange of greetings and gifts.

(ABOUT.COM: ISLAM)

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The hefty baskets filled with chocolate, nuts and munchies and delivered Tuesday to 20 Wake County schools were not Christmas or New Year's gifts.

The local chapter of the Muslim American Society raised more than $2,000 to prepare the baskets, given to teachers and school administrators to celebrate Islam's holiday of Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, which begins today.

The goody baskets are part of a project to build bridges and foster understanding between Muslims and the public schools, said leaders of the local chapter of the Muslim American Society, which sponsored the basket drive. They said they hope to counter the fear and misunderstanding Muslims often experience.

"We're delivering this in appreciation for taking care of our kids," said Manal Sidawi, one of the two Muslim women who delivered a basket to the Cary High School office.

This is the second year that the society, called MAS for short, has been delivering baskets to schools -- if only because most Muslim children attend public schools.

"We can have compassion for each other if we know each other," said Ali Diatta, who delivered the baskets with Sidawi.

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