Senator Kola Balogun has urged Nigerians, especially Muslim faithful, to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, being essence of the Eid-al-Adha.
The immediate past representative of Oyo South Senatorial District in the Senate stated this in a message to congratulate Islamic faithful on this year’s Eid-al-Adha celebration.
He said the feast of animal sacrifice by Muslims all over the world was in commemoration of the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to the commandment of Allah.
“To test his faith, the Prophet was instructed by Allah to sacrifice Ismail, hi only son, and he attempted to do as commanded.
“However, Allah provided a ram for the sacrifice in place of Ismail, and the action of the Prophet and his son exemplified the essence of Eid-al-Adha,” he said.
Senator Balogun, therefore, urged Muslim faithful to follow the example laid down by Prophet Ibrahim and his son by embracing the spirit of obedience and sacrifice.
“My wife, Mrs Gbonjubola Kola-Balogun, and I join our Muslim brothers and sisters in Nigeria, particularly Oyo State, on this occasion of Eid-al-Adha celebration.
“It is, indeed, heart-warming for us to come together to witness yet another momentous occasion of Eid-al-Adha celebration.
“It pleases the Almighty Allah to spare our lives to witness this great occasion and this calls for celebrations.
“However, while we are free to celebrate, we must not fail to remember the essence of Eid-al-Adha in our moment of sober reflections.
“The festival is significantly special because the Day of Sacrifice symbolizes the peak of the Hajj, being the fifth pillar of Islam.
“The foundation of Eid-al-Adha was built on obedience to the will of Allah and sacrifice. We must imbibe these two key elements, even in our daily activities.
“The acceptance of a father to sacrifice his only son and the acceptance of the son to be sacrificed by his father simply have their root in obedience and sacrifice.
“Following the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim and his only son, Ismail, we should make obedience and sacrifice the true essence of our earthily existence,” he said.
Senator Balogun further said the celebration is beyond show of might or buying the biggest ram, as it should be according to one’s ability.
“This also reinforced the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) namely, ‘actions will be judged according to intentions’.
He said the purpose or benefit of Sallah is for Muslims to remain steady in their faith and devotion to Allah and to be conscious of the importance of submission to their Creator.
