PM Extends Eid al-Adha Best Wishes to Ethiopian Muslims

Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended best wishes to Ethiopian Muslims celebrating Eid al-Adha (Arafah) tomorrow. Eid al-Adha is a holiday that commemorates sacrifice; the time when Prophet Ibrahim showed his absolute devotion to willingly sacrifice his son Ismail to God.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the premier emphasized that there is no greater act of obedience and devotion than sacrificing one’s child to God. In his message, he highlighted the significance of remembering the values of this holiday for building a prosperous Ethiopia. “A nation is built on sacrifice, especially the sacrifice of what we hold dear. A nation is where the preceding generation sacrifices for the succeeding generation,” he stated.

The Prime Minister recalled the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who prepared his son for sacrifice and in return received a sheep from Allah. He added that one must first sacrifice oneself to receive another sacrifice. He emphasized that a generation willing to sacrifice itself for the country is created by the preceding generation that sacrificed to save the nation.

“Our mothers and fathers sacrificed themselves for the independence and sovereignty of their country,” the PM noted, acknowledging that they will receive a heavenly and historical reward for their sacrifices. However, he pointed out that there is no earthly reward equivalent to a life. “We are the ones who receive their reward, and the succeeding generation will receive our reward.”

The premier elaborated on the day of Arafah as a special day of reunion and meeting, drawing a parallel to the long separation and eventual reunion of Adam and Hawa after leaving Jannah. He stressed the importance of not allowing thoughts, perspectives, grievances, and past histories to permanently or divisively separate the children of the same country.

“For us, the way to reconnect is through national dialogue-a platform where our ideas and interests meet,” Abiy emphasized. He expressed hope that the nation would reflect on the sacrifices made for the country and future generations by strengthening the national dialogue platform, especially on the day when Arafah is celebrated.