Azerbaijan marks Gurban Bayram

Sacrifice offering is one of the ancient religious rituals which date back to times long before Islam. At that time it was meant for atonement of sins and to gain mercy of God.

In Islamic world, Gurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha in Arabic) annually falls on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijja of the lunar Islamic calendar . The festivities last for two to three days or more. Eid al-Adha occurs the day after the pilgrims conducting Hajj , the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia by Muslims worldwide, descend from Mount Arafat . It happens to be approximately 70 days after the end of the month of Ramadan . In Islam, as a religious rite, sacrifice offering embodies high spiritual state, helping poor and hungry.

Muslims who can afford to do so sacrifice their best domestic animals (usually sheep, but also camels, cows, and goats) as a symbol of Ibrahim's (Abraham's) sacrifice. Allah's name is recited along with the offering statement and a supplication as Muhammad said. According to the Quran, the meat is divided into three shares, one share for the poor, one share for the relatives and neighbors, and the last to keep to oneself. A large portion of the meat must be given towards the poor and hungry people so they can all join in the feast which is held on Eid-al-Adha. The remainder is cooked for the family celebration meal in which relatives and friends are invited to share.

Azerbaijan has been celebrating Gurban Bayram since it re-gained its independence in 1991. Azerbaijan will celebrate the holiday for two days.
Gurban Bayram will be marked for two days - Nov. 27 and 28. As Nov. 28 is day-off, the Cabinet of Ministers decided to make Nov. 30 day-off as well, Kazinform cites Trend News. See www.en.trend.az for full version.