Tabaski: a method of preserving meat

In the early hours of the sacred Friday when the faithful Muslims celebrated the Aid El Kebir and at the same time the day of worship, many of them made the journey of their places of prayer. After devotion to Allah the Almighty, through prayer, the faithful Muslims returned to their homes. Place to sacrifice which is as important as prayer, since this feast takes its full meaning from there.



Here in Agoè Zongo, a neighborhood inhabited mostly by the Muslim community, at least 4 sheep are waiting to be sacrificed. And in these circumstances, homeowners solicit the services of specialist butchers. For the sacrifice of the beast corresponds to rules which the unbeliever disregards.

"In the Quran, indications are given as to how to immolate the animal. The animal bought to be sacrificed must not feel that it will die within hours. Thus, it is forbidden to sharpen the knife in front of the animal, "says Hasan, butcher. His friend was about to sacrifice the four waiting rams.

And the friend to add: "He (the angel) must have his eyes turned toward the holy place and the knife must be sharp, for Allah asks not to cause the animal too much suffering."

After the sacrifices, these Muslims have a way for them to smoke the meat. Once the animal is cut, they evacuate the intestines before proceeding to this process. Thus, in various quarters, one can perceive stems mounted on which are spread out the animals killed.

In the middle, they pour enough coal into it, and the heat emitted by the fire will be responsible for smoking these meats. When evening comes, everyone takes his ram.

Smoking meat is just one way to keep it. "This feast being a share, the day after the feast we distribute, the meat to our neighbors, whether Muslim or not. Now, on this day, we are seized with rejoicing. So the meat that is kept can be distributed afterwards, "says Papa Moubarack met in Adéwui.

Tabaski, also known as Aid El Kebir, is a tradition that has been perpetuated since the sacrifice of the Prophet Ibrahim, who manifested his faithfulness to Allah the Beneficent, who experienced his faith. And who says sacrifice, says peace and reconciliation with God and also between men. This is where the meaning of Tabaski's meat sharing lies.