Regarded as one of the holiest places on Earth, Makkah is literally visited by thousands upon thousands of Islamic faithfuls who believe in the teachings of the great prophet Mohammad. Muslims believe that every person who can afford a trip to Makkah should make the journey at least once in their lifetime to pay homage to their creator and honor the teachings of Islam. It is no secret however, that at least a few people die each year on the way to Makkah simply due to the place being overcrowded at the height of the season. As tradition demands that making this trip is of paramount importance, believers of the faith take this risk as a part of life and consider it a blessing to spend their final moments in these holy grounds.

Eid al-Adha is a much-awaited religious festival for Islamic believers worldwide. This event also known as the Festival of Sacrifice is celebrated by Muslims all around the world every year. The story behind this festival is one which is familiar to both Christian and Islamic believers. It is the story of Abraham who is said to have heard the voice of God (Allah) command him to sacrifice his son to show his devotion to God. Although he was saddened by the thought of sacrificing his own flesh and blood, Abraham was determined to show his faith towards his God and was prepared to go ahead.

At the last minute however God, knowing that Abraham was prepared to carry out his orders had commanded him to spare the boy and sacrifice a lamb in his place as an offering. Delighted, Abraham had done so and was able to win the confidence of God and keep his son as well. Even today, Muslims around the world sacrifice various domesticated animals such as goats, camels, cows and sheep to symbolize this traditional practice of religious sacrifice. Every year, the end of Hajj marks the arrival of the Eid al-Adha Festival, which is to be celebrated mid-November of 2010. This festive season also encourages you to spend extra time with family and friends and is a time to reconnect and share as well.