Faisal Qureshi, the famous Pakistani actor, has recently expressed strong disapproval while talking about people criticizing the animal sacrificial practice of Eid al-Adha on a private TV show. He said that he discussed the religious and cultural value of these rituals and addressed some objections that a few sections of society usually make.
The importance of Sacrifice on Eid ul Adha
Religious Significance
Faisal Qureshi states that Islamic tradition considers sacrifice an essential part deeply rooted in religious teachings. It is not merely a cultural practice but also a divine commandment from Allah (swt), as mentioned in the Holy Quran where Allah says, “And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” Ibrahim’s offering to give up his son Ismail for Allah when asked forms the central theme around which this event revolves. It means questioning one’s faith if one questions such practices.
Cultural Heritage
He further explained its significance in terms of culture stating how it brings Muslims together worldwide by giving them common grounds Africans know it as Sallahs or Wafubs Iranians observe Shab-e-Baraat while Indonesians celebrate Hari Raya Haji etcetera hence making us feel united despite our different backgrounds. The festival called ‘Eid al-Adha’, also known as ‘Feast of Hospitality’, signifies the highest level of obedience and trust towards God. It reflects Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to slaughter his beloved son Ismail when commanded. Such acts express devotion, and kindness, and encourage us to keep love among ourselves alive.
Addressing Criticisms
Liberal Arguments
Qureshi was particularly critical of those liberals who criticize sacrifice saying that they are only pretending to care about animals while their real target is Islam. Many among them argue that money spent buying sacrificial animals could have been used to alleviate poverty instead. Although charity work should indeed always continue during such festive seasons what many do not realize is that apart from just being charitable giving meat calves out can also serve other purposes such as tightening family ties strengthening friendship bonds fostering community spirit among people living around us and meeting needs those who are less privileged.
Selective Priorities
The actor drew attention to what he perceived as double standards when it comes to objecting against some national events based on cost implications vis-a-vis social impact. According to him, Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day every year with great pomp. Various activities promoting unity and patriotism take place nationwide. This lack of consideration seems quite strange when considering the profound understanding of the importance of sacrifice, both religiously and socially.
Understanding Sacrifice’s Philosophy
Public Awareness
Faisal Qureshi said that there is a need for public enlightenment concerning sacrifices. People who do not understand why these actions were taken should seek explanations from scholars and knowledgeable individuals. He further added that during such times, people should teach others about the spiritual values associated with slaughtering animals like goats or cows at home. Prophet Ibrahim showed obedience when he received the order to slaughter his son Ismail, whom he loved most dearly among his children from different wives. This act signifies the willingness to give up everything dear and to share whatever little one has with others.
Qureshi warned that if the practice of sacrifice is undermined it will erode Islamic values more generally. He appealed to people not to defame Islam by spreading misunderstandings and baseless criticism but invited them to engage in a courteous conversation instead which should be accompanied by intensified campaigns for enlightening individuals about what Islamic customs and practices are all about. According to him, Muslims can still keep their faith alive even under contemporary pressures only if they preserve such beliefs as well as learn them deeply.
