The essence of Eid-ul-Azha

Eid-ul-azha, the second biggest religious festival of the Muslims, will be celebrated tomorrow with due solemnity and religious fervour. As we partake in the festivities, we must not lose sight of the true essence of the religious practice of sacrifice.

The festival originated from the readiness of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) to make a supreme sacrifice on Allah's command. Unfortunately, instead of practicing self-sacrifice and humility, the occasion these days is marked by ostentation by many. The exhibitionism of wealth during Eid-ul-Adha, apparent in the competition to display the most expensive and grandiose sacrifice, is in sharp contradiction to the spirit of the occasion.

On this Eid, we should pledge to break from the temptation of worldly riches and imbue ourselves with the spirit of sharing, compassion and virtue. We should reach out to those who are less fortunate than us and refrain from ostentatious behaviour that can offend others' sensitivities.

We also urge followers and relevant authorities to ensure proper waste disposal and a sanitary environment so that we don't have to sacrifice the cleanliness of our cities in the fulfillment of our religious duty.

Our prayers are with all Muslims who may not be able to celebrate this festival with due gaiety because they are besieged by war, poverty or other injustice. We fervently hope that the essence of Eid -- of bonding, harmony, unity and peace -- may embrace us all.

Eid Mubarak!