Sultanate marks Eid with prayers

Sept. 24: The Sultanate along with the rest of the GCC countries and some Asian countries marked Eid al Adha on Thursday with special prayers followed by exchange of greetings and distribution of sweets. Mosques across the country resonated with Thakbeer which proclaimed “Allah is Great”.

Scholars and Imams led the Eid prayers across governorates in mosques and specially arranged Eid Garhs (special gathering for Eid prayers).

Thousand thronged mosques and Eid Garhs for pre-sunrise Salat al Eid to pray for Allah’s mercy and remind themselves of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to follow God’s command to sacrifice his only son Ismail, and Ismail’s consent to being sacrificed. Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice is today marked by slaughtering animals to feed the poor. Coming at the end of the holy Haj, a journey of dedication and purification, Eid al Adha is also an opportunity to for for the erring souls on the earth for correction

In Oman, the prayers started as early as 6 am at different mosques in various wilayats. People were seen distributing Eidiya on the way and embracing their friends. On some streets in Muscat, people were seen distributing bowls of sheer korma, the special Eid sweet made of milk, vermicelli and dates, dry fruits and saffron for the passersby.

“Eid sends out messages of unity of humanity and camaraderie”, says Naushad Kakkavayal who led the prayers in Ruwi. “It is the message of obedience to Almighty Allah and of love and share and care between people of various origins and colours and creeds.”