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By Ilmi Khalid
Every year during Eidul Adha, we revisit a timeless story: the trials of Prophet Ibrahim peace be upon him, the unwavering faith of his wife Siti Hajar, and the noble submission of their son, Prophet Ismail peace be upon him. We reflect on the pilgrimage, the sacrifice, the qurban (sacrifice) meat distributed to the needy, and the spiritual lessons behind it all.
But rarely do we pause to reflect on the knife -- the silent witness to that moment of obedience, the tool chosen by Allah to play a role in a divine test.
The Knife in Prophet Ibrahim’s Hand
In that moment, Prophet Ibrahim peace be upon him held a knife to show devotion, to obey. It was a test from Allah — a command that cuts deeper than any blade. The knife in his hand became a symbol of obedience, trust, and surrender to Allah. And yet — Allah intervened. And in place of his son, a ram was sent — and that ram was sacrificed. “And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” — Surah As-Saffat (Quran 37:107) The story ends with mercy and the knife played its role, as a tool of submission and spiritual strength. 
Is Eidul Adha Related to Hajj?
Yes — Eidul Adha is directly tied to the Hajj pilgrimage, both in timing and meaning. While Muslims around the world gather for the Eid prayer and offer qurban, millions of pilgrims in Makkah are completing the rites of Hajj — a sacred journey that retraces the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim, Siti Hajar, and Ismail Eidul Adha falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, right after the most critical day of Hajj: Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah). During this period, both pilgrims and non-pilgrims perform qurban (animal sacrifice), commemorating the moment Allah replaced Prophet Ismail with a ram. Eidul Adha is the spiritual echo of Hajj — a global reminder of submission, sacrifice, and divine mercy. 
The Ethical Blade
Here in Malaysia, this spiritual ethic lives on. In the days before Eidul Adha, local bladesmiths become busy sharpening knives — for the sacred duty of qurban. A well-sharpened blade ensures a swift, merciful slaughter with the least amount of pain for the animal. This is ihsan in action — excellence in worship, compassion in ritual, and discipline in practice. The knife, when held by hands guided by taqwa (God-consciousness), becomes a symbol of mercy, discipline, obedience, and service to Allah.
Why I Wrote Basic Silat Knife Drills
As a martial artist, I’ve always believed that the Silat blade training teaches us more than movement. It teaches us responsibility. It sharpens not just our reflexes — but our intention. The pisau belati — the traditional Malay knife — seems like a harmless daily utility tool used by the ladies of the past. However, in the hands of a trained practitioner, it can be a deadly instrument of combat. In my ebook Basic Silat Knife Drills, I share: • Foundational solo drills with the knife • Ethical and practical principles of self-control and awareness • Warrior stories that echo the values of discipline and service • A structured training guide that is easy to use This isn’t a manual for violence. It’s a journey toward mastery, restraint, and readiness. 
Eidul Adha Offer: 20% OFF
In celebration of Eidul Adha, I’m offering a 20% discount on the Basic Silat Knife Drills ebook until June 12, 2025.
A Final Reflection
This Eid, let’s not forget the knife. It was present in that sacred moment — still, ready, obedient. It reminds us that tools are only as meaningful as the hands that wield them… and the intention behind the action. This Eidul Adha, may our sacrifices be sincere, our tools be guided by mercy, and our hearts be tethered to Allah. Eid Mubarak. — Ilmi Khalid Seni Bilah Melayu Silat Academy
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