Lesson

Begin by telling the children that Id (pronounced eed) is an Arabic word which means 'recurring happiness'. It is a word which Muslims apply to their religious holidays and family celebrations. Over the next few weeks, the children shall be finding out all about these.

In the Islamic year, there are two Id celebration - big Id and little Id. 'Big Id' which is also known as 'Id-ul-Adha' is the more important and serious celebration. Another name for the festival is also 'The Day of Sacrifice', because during the festival Muslims remember a sacrifice which was made by the prophet Ibrahim.

Share with children the story of Ibrahim and Ishmael. (It is the same story as the Biblical story of Abraham and Isaac but in the Qur'an, Ibrahim is requested by Allah to sacrifice Ishmael. In the end, Ibrahim sacrifies a sheep.)

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could:

• read the story of Abraham and Issac (Genesis 22:1-13)
• read another story about the prophet Ibrahim.
• find out the names of other Islamic prophets.
• dramatize the story.
• 'hot seat' Ibrahim and Ishmael.
• find out about the Islamic Year and calendar.