As-salamu `Alaykuim Wa Rahmatu Allah,
Dear brothers and sisters,
Today is the Day of Al-Nahr, which falls on the tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah and marks the beginning of Eid al-Adha.
The term “Al-Nahr” carries significant meanings that we can contemplate during this blessed day.
Here are some interpretations of the importance of Al-Nahr:
- Full Submission (الخضوع): For those who perform Hajj, Al-Nahr represents a day of complete submission and obedient movement from one ritual to another. During Hajj, pilgrims move from one act of worship to another with love, care, and obedience without questioning or doubting the prescribed rituals. We should aim to emulate this spirit of submission in our daily lives by fully submitting ourselves to the commands of Allah and carrying out our duties as Muslims with unwavering devotion and sincerity, giving our all to Allah
- Sacrifice (التضحية): Al-Nahr signifies the greatest sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and his willingness to obey Allah’s command to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (PBUH). This act of obedience demonstrated Ibrahim’s unwavering sacrifice for Allah’s will. On this day, Muslims commemorate this significant event by performing the ritual sacrifice of an animal, symbolizing our willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of Allah and our commitment to obey His commands.
- Redemption (الفداء): Al-Nahr is a day of divine release and redemption. On this day, pilgrims are confident that Allah has forgiven them and released them from the punishment of Hellfire, as He has promised. As Muslims, we are encouraged to alleviate the burdens of those in need and less fortunate by sharing the meat from the sacrificial animal with compassion, generosity, and a strong sense of unity. This noble act serves as a means of release from the stresses of this worldly life. It serves as a reminder for us to remain mindful of our fellow human beings and demonstrate kindness and compassion towards those less privileged.
May Allah bless us with the ability to embody these values, and may our celebrations be filled with joy, gratitude, and acts of worship that are pleasing to Him.
Dr. Basyouny Nehela
President
Boston Islamic Seminary