30,000-strong crowd at Lakemba Mosque for Eid-ul-Adha prayer

Wednesday 27 May, saw an estimated 30,000 worshippers gather at Australia’s most iconic masjid, Ali Bin Abi Taleb (Lakemba) Mosque, for the Eid-ul-Adha Prayer.

Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (a) to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah and as one of the most significant days on the Islamic calendar, it is a time for Muslims around the world to reflect on the values of sacrifice, charity and unity.

Lakemba Mosque and its underground area were filled to capacity well before Eid Prayer’s official commencement time of 7:45 AM, with the overflow of worshippers spilling onto the pavement and for hundreds of metres along Wangee Road – a powerful illustration of the Muslim community’s devotion.

Imam of Lakemba Mosque Sheikh Yahya Safi reminded the congregation of what the day truly demands.

Sheikh Yahya Safi (holding microphone).

“We follow Sayyidina Ibrahim from outside by slaughtering this animal, but in reality, we should believe, we should have this faith in our heart.”

“Not only from outside, it should be from inside, as well.”

“Each and every one of us has an amanah – a moral responsibility and sacred trust – to be a role model of ethics, morals and justice.”

The crowd extended down Wangee Rd, as far as the eye can see. (All images courtesy LMA Creative Team).

Lebanese Muslim Association Secretary Hajj Gamel Kheir delivered a passionate call to unity, warning against those who seek to divide the community.

“There are forces at play that seek to ferment division amongst the Ummah of our beloved prophet Muhammad (s),” Mr Kheir pointed out.

“We mustn’t facilitate this endeavour by breaking off into smaller and smaller groups, each pitted against each other.”

“The days of Divide and Conquer must stop, and only we hold this key,” he said, before reaffirming the LMA’s commitment to the community.

“On behalf of the LMA, we recommit our intention to listen to our community, to fight and leave no stone unturned to defend the rights and dignity of every Australian Muslim.”