WEBLINKS
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 |  | Report compiled by Muhammad Imran, an English Muslim who lives in Coventry with his family
In 2003, Hajj and Eid-ul-Adha will be marked by Muslims across the world from 11 February. Both aspects of the festival are outlined below.
听The Hajj (Pilgrimmage to Makkah)
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| 听 |  | A picture representing Makkah
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The Hajj, or pilgrimage to Makkah, is an ancient and central duty of Islam. It brings together Muslims of all races and tongues for one of life's most moving spiritual experiences.
For 14 centuries, millions of Muslims - men and women from all over the world - have made the pilgrimage to Makkah, the birthplace of Islam.
In carrying out this obligation, they fulfil one of the five pillars of Islam -, or central religious duties of the believer.
听Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice
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| 听 |  | Preparing food for a feast
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This very important Muslim holiday is celebrated at the end of Hajj. The Festival of Sacrifice is followed by a Feast of Sacrifice, which pays homage to the Prophet Ibrahim's unselfish act of sacrificing his son, Ishmael, to God.
In the Christian faith, that son is said to have been Isaac.
In turn, God spared the boy's life and instead substituted a sheep. In remembrance, people sacrifice a lamb, goat, or other animal, and give the meat to family, friends, and - most importantly - the poor.
Muslim communities all over the world celebrate this holiday with prayer, community gatherings, and the tradition of dressing up in special clothes to visit friends and relatives. People hold Eid parties and give presents to their children.
听Diverse and rich culture
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| 听 |  | A muslim woman wearing a kijab
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The Hajj and Eid-ul-Adha are just more examples of the diverse and rich culture that springs from the Islamic way of life: a way of life that seeks to unite families and communities by inculcating in them a desire to serve God through worship, giving praise and helping one's neighbour.
听Muslims are doubly fortunate as they actually have two Eids in a year to celebrate.
The first important Eid celebration is called Eid Al Fitr. Read about Eid Al Fitr in 2002 by following the link on the left.
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