Eid festival in Munich: celebration or political maneuver?

Eid festival in Munich: celebration or political maneuver?

In a few days, the Luitpoldpark in Munich will be the setting for an important festival: On June 9, 2025, the event "Munich celebrates Eid ’25" will take place. Previously, the event was originally planned for June 8, but was postponed due to unpleasant weather forecasts. Any prejudices aside: It is about a celebration of the Islamic Festival Eid Al-Adha, which is of great importance for Muslims.

This festivity is organized by the Muslim Council Munich e.V., which emphasizes that the celebration is open to all Munich, whether Muslims or non -Muslims. This underlines the motto of Eid al-Adha, which stands for mercy, community and solidarity. The roots of this festival go back to the narrative of the Prophet Ibrahim, who was ready to sacrifice his son, which was finally spared him by Allah by sacrificing an animal in his place.

background and meaning of Eid al-adha

eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul-Hijja, and marks the highlight of the important pilgrimage Hajj. This year the Hajj begins on June 4th, and millions of Muslims worldwide take new strength and spirituality from this experience. The pilgrimage and the sacrificial festival symbolize devotion, obedience and trust in Allah. Muslims, who do not travel to Hajj, celebrate awe in community through a special prayer, followed by a sacrificial ritual.

A central part of this ritual is the division of the sacrificial animal: a third of the meat is shared in the family, another third goes to friends and neighbors, and a third is donated to poor people. This tradition promotes gratitude and the feeling of togetherness within the community. At the same time, Eid al-Adha is a time of reflection on the personal relationship with Allah and awareness of equality and fraternity in Islam.

criticism and challenges

Despite the festive anticipation, there are also critical voices. A specialist information office warns that Islamist actors could use the event in order to present themselves as legitimate representatives of the Muslim community. It should be noted that different groups, including the Islamic Center in Munich (IZM), appear in the advertising video for the event. The IZM is in the Bavarian Constitutional Protection Report and has connections to the controversial Muslim Brotherhood. Critics express concerns that radical currents could try to position themselves in the middle of society.

The Al-Hibba mosque, which also appears in the video, has compacted connections to Islamist groups. In addition, some are wondering about the role of influencers who appear in the advertising films and express sympathies for radical preachers. It remains to be seen how these aspects will affect the public perception of the festival.

eid al-Adha, the "festival of the victim", interwoven with the deep spiritual experience of the Hajj, symbolizes not only a religious commitment, but also striving for humanity and cohesion in our society.