As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Prophet’s Lovers Foundation (Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı) issued a message calling for unity, compassion, and fervent prayers for oppressed communities, with a particular focus on the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza.

The statement emphasized the profound spiritual significance of the holiday and urged believers to embody its values of sacrifice, solidarity, and servitude to Allah.

Ömer Çelik, a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, opened the message by invoking blessings upon Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He drew on sacred texts to underscore the importance of Eid al-Adha, quoting the Qur’an: “We have appointed a sacrifice for every nation so that they may mention the name of Allah while sacrificing the animals that We have given them as sustenance. Know well that your God is only one God. So surrender to Him alone.” Çelik also referenced a hadith from the Prophet, stating, “The most virtuous deed that the son of Adam does on the day of Eid al-Adha is sacrificing a sacrifice,” highlighting the act of sacrifice as a cornerstone of the holiday’s spiritual practice.

Çelik described Eid al-Adha as a divine gift that fosters joy and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood among Muslims. “These sacred days remind us of the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and Ismail, whose submission to Allah teaches us the essence of devotion and sacrifice,” he said. He emphasized that the holiday is not only a time for ritual observance but also an opportunity to deepen communal ties through acts of sharing and compassion. “Eid al-Adha invites us to embrace unity, to extend our hands to those in need, and to reflect on our collective responsibility as an ummah,” he added.

The statement also celebrated the ongoing pilgrimage season, describing it as a global convergence of faith. “Millions of believers from every corner of the world gather as guests in the house of Allah, purified of sins and reaffirming their servitude,” Çelik noted, referring to the annual Hajj in Mecca. He called the pilgrimage a powerful symbol of unity, where Muslims of diverse backgrounds stand together in devotion, reinforcing the universal message of Islam.

However, the Foundation’s message took a somber tone as Çelik addressed the ongoing crises affecting the Muslim world, particularly the devastating situation in Gaza. “While we rejoice in the blessings of Eid, our hearts are heavy with the pain and tears of our brothers and sisters in Gaza and other oppressed regions,” he said. He acknowledged the shadow cast over the holiday by the suffering under occupation and violence, yet expressed hope rooted in faith. “Our firm belief in Allah’s promise sustains us, giving us strength to pray for a future where our nation and the ummah can celebrate joyous Eids in peace and unity,” Çelik stated.

Çelik urged Muslims to extend the spirit of Eid beyond rituals, encouraging practical acts of charity and community engagement. “Visit the elderly, the sick, and the needy. Share the joy of Eid with those who are struggling,” he said, emphasizing the importance of remembering the marginalized. He specifically called for prayers for the oppressed, including orphans, the poor, and those enduring occupation, with a heartfelt plea to keep Gaza and Palestine at the forefront of supplications during Eid prayers and beyond.

The Foundation’s message also highlighted the broader challenges facing the Muslim ummah, including division and hardship. Çelik called for renewed commitment to unity, urging Muslims to set aside differences and work toward collective strength. “Eid al-Adha is a time to heal divisions, to rebuild trust, and to stand together as one ummah under the guidance of Allah,” he said.

Concluding the statement, the Prophet’s Lovers Foundation extended warm Eid greetings to Muslims worldwide, with special mention of those in Gaza and Palestine enduring immense hardship. “We pray that this Eid becomes a means of unity and strength for the Islamic world,” Çelik said. He also invoked blessings for pilgrims in Mecca, asking Allah to accept their worship and sacrifices. “May Allah grant peace, justice, and victory to all oppressed Muslims, and may He make this Eid a turning point for our ummah’s healing and triumph,” he concluded. (ILKHA)