President Bush has sent holiday greetings to all Muslims as they celebrate the Eid al-Adha religious festival.
In a statement issued Friday, Mr. Bush said Eid al-Adha is an important occasion to give thanks for blessings and to remember Abraham's trust in a loving God.
Eid al-Adha, the festival of sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of the prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. According to scripture, Allah did not require Abraham to go through with the sacrifice.
Mr. Bush said Muslims would celebrate with friends and family, exchanging gifts and greetings, and engaging in worship through sacrifice and charity.
The president said America is a more hopeful nation because of the talents, generosity and compassion of Muslim citizens.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.
