Closer to the Truth

The Festival of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) is one of the two most important celebrations in the Islamic tradition. About two months following the end of Ramadan fasting and festivity (Eid al-Fitr), Muslims around the world join in prayer and feasting again for Eid al-Adha. Those who can afford distribute meat of sacrificial animals to the poor and neighbors during this eid which also marks one of the biggest annual assemblies of the world: the Hajj - the pilgrimage. Millions of Muslims flock in Mecca to observe the rites of the Hajj, pray at the holiest sanctuary of Islam, the Ka'ba, and honor Prophet Abraham, who, Muslims believe, built it. They remember Hagar and Ishmael as they walk about and drink from the well.

As featured in this work, Prophet Abraham's story is almost identical in many ways in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and full of lessons for the faithful across traditions. Abraham symbolizes matchless submission and trust in God, spirit of sacrifice, and generous hospitality. His is the path to get closer to the Truth; this is what Abrahamic sacrifice (qurban) stands for. This work features authors from the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions who share their perspectives on Abraham's life and mission.