There is only one thing to interpret the smell of grilled ram, the sounds of prayers filling the streets, and the sight of everyone decked out in their best attire: Eid al-Adha, or Sallah as many call it!
Nationwide, people celebrate the Muslim holiday, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, with joy, prayers, and, of course, an abundance of meat. Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice in obedience to God is commemorated on Sallah. God gave him a ram just as he was ready to do it, which is why Muslims commemorate the day by symbolically killing cows and rams.
Sallah is more than simply a religious celebration; it’s also a time for fashion, a meat fest, and an excuse to visit your neighbors, particularly those with large pots and giving natures. You may have already sent a lot of “Sallah meat dey?” texts on WhatsApp by now; if not, it might be time to send some more.
Following a special Eid prayer at the mosque, family and friend visits, and a ton of cooking, the celebration usually starts. The sacrifice’s meat is split into three portions: one for the family, one for friends and family, and one for the underprivileged. Therefore, yes, remind your Muslim friend of that middle part if they are acting strangely today and you are not Muslim.
Festivities are in full swing in cities like Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin, where people are dressed in vibrant traditional garb, kids are laughing, and the odd cow escapes its doom (as seen in viral videos).
Even for those who do not celebrate the holiday, it is a wonderful opportunity to consider the virtues of sharing, sacrifice, and obedience. But let’s face it, it’s also the ideal moment to ask your Muslim friends, “So… what are you saying about that Sallah meat?” in direct messages.
Happy Eid to all those who are celebrating, and to everyone else, may your rams be well-seasoned and your plates be full.
