Fazle Kinkhabwala, Foundation Bailiff and Chair of the EDI Steering Group, offers a personal reflection on Eid and the meaning it holds for him.
"Eid ul Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is far more than a celebration or ritual. At its heart lies a timeless lesson about humility, compassion, and the willingness to place what is right above personal desire.
For Muslims, the festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to sacrifice what was most precious to him in obedience to Allah. Yet the deeper message is not about loss, but about surrendering pride, ego, greed, and selfishness.
What is striking is that this principle is not unique to Islam.
In Judaism and Christianity, Abraham stands as a symbol of faith, trust, and devotion to God. Sikhism teaches sacrifice through the courage and service of the Gurus, who gave their lives defending justice and humanity. Hinduism similarly emphasises duty, selflessness, and overcoming attachment to the self.
Across these traditions runs a shared truth: true strength is found not in domination, but in restraint, service, and moral courage.
In today’s world, this message feels more relevant than ever. We live in an age of conflict, division, and constant noise. Leaders speak often of power, but less frequently of humility, understanding, and peace. Yet every major faith reminds us that societies are strengthened not by pride alone, but by compassion and sacrifice for others.
Eid ul Adha therefore offers a moment for all of us, regardless of faith, to reflect:
What are we willing to sacrifice for the greater good?
Our ego?
Our anger?
Our unwillingness to listen?
Perhaps the world would be calmer, kinder, and more united if more of us, especially those who lead, embraced those values a little more deeply.
Eid Mubarak to all celebrating."
