An Islamic cleric, Dr. Tajudeen Adebayo, has advised Muslim faithfuls against going beyond their reach and capacity during the Eid el-Kabir celebration, News About Nigeria reports.
He gave this advice while speaking with newsmen in Lagos on Friday.
He advised Muslims who cannot afford ram for the celebration due to economic hardship not to grieve but to hope for a better future.
Adebayo, the Chief Imam of the Falomo Central Mosque, Lagos State, also urged those who could afford ram to show kindness and love to others.
According to him, neither the meat nor the blood will reach Allah, but the way the sacrifice is done.
He added that there is no need for anyone to beat themselves up for not being able to afford a ram this season.
He further advised Muslim faithfuls in the state to understand the significance of the celebration for their spiritual growth, urging them to see Eid beyond the narrow view of merrymaking.
”If the economic situation does not give room for slaughtering ram this year, we should not grieve. Another good time will come.
”Let those who can afford to kill a ram extend their hands of kindness to those who cannot kill.
“They need to know that neither the meat nor the blood will reach Allah; rather, it is the piety with which the sacrifice is done that matters most.
“I wish to urge all Muslims to see Eid beyond the narrow view of merrymaking.
“Muslims should be reminded of the trial of Prophet Ibrahim, which culminated in the celebration.
“The Eid was not a moment of happiness when it started, but it later turned to happiness,” he stated.
Muslims worldwide are set to celebrate 2024 Eid el-Kabir, and the federal government has declared Monday and Tuesday next week as public holidays.
