Minnesota Muslims mark end of Hajj
Minnesota Muslims mark the end of the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, on Friday with communal prayers and celebrations at locations around the state.
The prayers, and the holiday that follows, are called Eid ul-Adha. That means, "festival of the sacrifice." It commemorates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael at God's command.
The holiday is celebrated with morning prayers, small gifts for children, distribution of meat to the needy and social gatherings. Many communities also hold daylong festivals for families.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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