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Chief Kadhi announces Eid-ul-Adha on June 16 after crescent moon sighting in Mecca

Muslims conducting Eid prayers at the Watamu Primary Grounds in Kilifi County on April 10, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, June 6, 2024

Dhul Hijjah holds great importance for Muslims worldwide, as it encompasses the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha.

Chief Kadhi of Kenya Abdulhalim Hussein has announced that Kenyans will be celebrating Eid-ul-Adha on June 16. The celebrations are set to take place on Sunday next week.

This is after Saudi Arabia also announced that Eid-ul-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, will be observed on Sunday, June 16.

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This declaration followed the sighting of the crescent moon this evening, which marks the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

Chief Kadhi said there were some minor uncertainties in the sighting of the moon, but a decision has been reached, and they will align with Saudi Arabia's date for the festivities.

This decision aims to foster unity and ensure that the celebrations are observed uniformly across the country.

Chief Kadhi emphasised the importance of solidarity among the Muslim community during this significant religious occasion.

Dhul Hijjah importance

Dhul Hijjah holds great importance for Muslims worldwide, as it encompasses the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha.

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

Pilgrims perform a series of rituals over several days, culminating in the observance of Eid-ul-Adha.

For those not performing Hajj, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered highly virtuous, and many Muslims engage in fasting and increased religious devotion during this period.

These ten days are seen as an opportunity to seek forgiveness, perform good deeds, and draw closer to God.

Eid-ul-Adha, celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael), in obedience to God's command. According to Islamic tradition, God intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.

In honour of this event, Muslims around the world perform the ritual sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among family, friends, and the needy, emphasising the values of charity and community.

The announcement by Saudi Arabia sets the stage for Muslims globally to prepare for this significant religious observance.

On Eid-ul-Adha, Muslims will gather for special prayers at mosques and open prayer grounds. The day is marked by festive meals, social gatherings, and acts of charity. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of faith.

This year, as Eid-ul-Adha falls on June 16, Muslims will take part in various religious and cultural activities, reaffirming their commitment to the principles of sacrifice, compassion, and generosity.

The festival serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and the shared values that unite the global Muslim community.