KAYA — On the occasion of Tabaski, also known as Aid El Kebir, the Ahmadyya community in Kaya emphasized the importance of sacrificing personal wealth, time, and even lives for the nation, linking love of country directly to the tenets of faith.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Ahmad Saadat, who led the Tabaski celebration on June 16, 2024, the ritual of ram sacrifice is deeply symbolic. He explained that the act is meant to remind the faithful of the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, which in turn should inspire them to dedicate themselves to the welfare of Burkina Faso during its current crisis. “The sacrifice of the ram reminds us that we must sacrifice what is dear to us for the sake of Allah and for the sake of our country,” Saadat stated in his address.
During the event, Saadat urged the community to align their actions with their faith by changing behaviors, returning to the right path, and praying for the youth, who are seen as future leaders of the nation. The congregation also prayed for peace in Burkina Faso, recognizing the challenging times the country faces.
In a gesture of inclusivity and community support, Saadat addressed the financial hardships that prevent some families from participating in the sheep sacrifice ritual. He encouraged those who are able to afford it to follow the example set by Prophet Mohamed, who is said to have sacrificed two sheep: one for himself and one for those who could not afford to do so.
For those with the means, the community leader reminded that the window to fulfill the sacrificial obligation extends up to three days after the feast. This flexibility ensures that the spirit of sharing and sacrifice is accessible to more members of the community, reinforcing Tabaski as a celebration of generosity and communal support.