Originally published in the Orange County Register
This weekend, Muslims around the world will be celebrating the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha, which concludes the ritual of Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca) and celebrates events during the time of the patriarch prophet Abraham.
During Eid, Muslims are enjoined to sacrifice animals in which one-third of the portion of meat is given to neighbors, one third to the poor, and one third is kept for the household.
Eid reminds us that three great religions, Islam, Judaism and Christianity, share a common religious forefather in the prophet Abraham, who lived a life of devotion and sacrifice.
It’s a time for us to appreciate the core commonalities between our faiths rather than the differences. It is an opportunity for us to thank all of our servicemen, and women, and their families, for making the highest of personal sacrifices for our nation and the American people.
The very fact that Muslims in America can celebrate this blessed day freely is a testament to the greatness of this country.
