10/15/13: Muslims across metro Detroit celebrate Eid al-Adha with prayers, sacrifice

Muslims across metro Detroit celebrate Eid al-Adha with prayers, sacrifice

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Detroit Free Press- by: Niraj Warikoo

October 15, 2013 |  Hundreds of Muslims gathered today in mosques across metro Detroit to celebrate Eid al-Adha, the holiday that remembers the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his son to show his obedience to God.

At the Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi told congregants during Eid prayers about the importance of sacrifice. He also talked about ending terrorism and war.

“I prayed for the end of war and misery in the Muslim and Christian worlds,” Elahi said. “I prayed for the youth of the community, from staying away from drugs, alcohol, and family challenges. And I also prayed for our country.”

Elahi’s mosque, like some others, will have a second day of Eid prayers Wednesday because of differences among religious leaders as to the date of Eid.

After Eid prayers today, some Muslims slaughtered sheeps, cows, and other animals to symbolize Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice. Other local Muslims are in Mecca for the pilgrimage known as hajj; Eid is marked at the end of hajj.