Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Adha, the second of two major Islamic festivals that take place each year.
Eid al-Adha began last night (11 August) and will continue until the evening of Wednesday 15 August. It is considered the holier of the two Muslim celebrations, and is marked by special prayers, feasts and gift-giving.
Here's everything you need to know about the significance of both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, what each means and how each is celebrated:
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is the first of the Islamic festivals, and is also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast". It celebrates the end of Ramadan - the month in which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset.
How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?
Before Eid prayers can commence, Muslims must pay money to the poor and needy. This act of charity is known as Zakat-ul-fitr.
People wear their best clothes, feast together as a family, and give gifts or money to children. They visit friends and neighbours and share traditional foods.
In some countries, Muslims will visit cemeteries on Eid al-Fitr to commemorate the dead and pray for them.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha is also known as the " Festival of the Sacrifice ". It takes place during the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar (Dhu al-Hijjah), and commemorates the story of the prophet Ibrahim.
According to tradition, Allah ordered Ibrahim to sacrifice his eldest son.
Ibrahim agreed and made all the necessary preparations, but when the moment came to make the sacrifice he was astonished to see that his son had been replaced by a lamb.
In preparing to sacrifice his son - the dearest person in his life - Ibrahim had proven that his love for Allah superseded all others. He had passed the test, and so Allah spared his son.
How is Eid al-Adha celebrated?
To celebrate Eid al-Adha, Muslims wear their best clothes and gather to feast with family and friends.
There are special prayers to commemorate Eid al-Adha, and gifts are exchanged.
In some countries, it is traditional to sacrifice animals in homage to the story of Ibrahim.
The meat from these sacrificed animals is split into three parts, with one part given to relatives, one part donated to the needy, and one part kept to be enjoyed at home.
Eid Mubarak!
