The Feast of the Lamb, also known as Eid al Fitr, emerges as a holiday of deep significance for the Muslim community in Spain and beyond. Although it may go unnoticed by some, this celebration marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and commemorates a story of relevance in both the Bible and the Quran.
In Spain, home to a Muslim community that numbers almost two million people, the Feast of the Lamb is a time of unity and celebration. Although rooted in Islamic tradition, this holiday also reflects the interconnection between Judeo-Christian and Muslim cultures, since the story that inspires it is recognized in both religious traditions.
The Feast of the Lamb covers a period of three days and marks the closing of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. The dates of this celebration vary annually due to following the lunar calendar, a characteristic shared with Holy Week.
Although this holiday has great relevance for the Muslim community, it is not established as an obligation for everyone, like the pilgrimage to Mecca, thus allowing the exemption of those who lack the necessary financial resources to participate.
During the Feast of the Lamb, Muslim families dress up in their most elegant attire and gather in mosques to participate in special prayers. It is a common tradition to wear new clothing for this occasion, which emphasizes the importance and solemn nature of the event. After the prayers, families return to their homes to enjoy a festive meal in the company of their loved ones.
One of the most emblematic facets of the Feast of the Lamb lies in the ritual sacrifice of an animal, typically a lamb, as an expression of gratitude and generosity towards God. Many Muslim families dedicate months of savings to acquire a lamb, which they will later share with friends, neighbors and those less fortunate as a gesture of solidarity and benevolence.
In Spain, the slaughter of lambs is carried out in certified slaughterhouses that follow halal regulations, thus guaranteeing that the process complies with Islamic precepts. In addition, rigorous hygienic-sanitary measures are applied to ensure food safety throughout the process.
