ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the spirit of sacrificeis of universal importance and no nation in the world can progress unlessit demonstrates the spirit of sacrifice.
“Observing the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim requires us to exhibit the spiritof sacrifice in all fields of life.
We have to work for the country’s progress, development and welfare byrising above our personal interests, priorities and prejudices,” the primeminister said in a message to nation on the eve of Eid ul Azha.
Imran Khan felicitated the Pakistani nation on the Eid and prayed to AllahAlmighty to accept the prayers and sacrifices offered by the people andmake the same a source of blessings for them.
He said Eid ul Azha was observed in remembrance of the submission of HazratIbrahim and Hazrat Ismail (May Allah be pleased with both of them) beforeAllah Almighty.
The day was set as an eternal example of sacrifice by the prophets of AllahAlmighty, which would be followed till the Day of Judgment.
He said the sacrifice was not about slaying an animal, but submittingbefore the will of the Almighty and surrendering one’s desires in the wayto attain higher objectives.
That spirit, he said, developed an exceptional quality in a person whichhelped him stay steadfast in difficult times and did not let him drift awayfrom the righteous path.
“While celebrating our festivities of Eid, we should remember our brothersand sisters, who are facing the brunt of difficult financial conditions.
We should also be vigilant lest our neighbour misses the joys of Eid,” hesaid.
The prime minister said the builders and defenders of Pakistan should alsonot be forgotten, who had sacrificed their lives for the great mission ofsafeguarding the country.
He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless everyone with the real happiness ofEidul Azha, accept the offerings rendered before Him and guide all toobserve the act of worship in its true essence.