Gurban was observed October 15th & 16th. Gurban is a public holiday so I had those days off. My original plan was to meet friend in Baku on Tuesday. I had checked with host sister an she had indicated that it was OK to leave home that day. However, when I told my host mother I was leaving, I got the "look" which indicated that I needed to change my plans. Instead, I got my camera out for the observance.
In Azerbaijan, Gurban is observed with a sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep. Sheep are the primary animal sacrificed, but other animals can be used. My family pitched in with three other related families and purchased a young ram. The ram needed to be over one year old. I was told that a truck from village comes into the neighborhood with sheep to be purchased for the holiday. Below is the sheep that appeared in our yard.
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| Extended family members |
The sacrifice is Halal, in accordance with religious traditions. The animal looks towards Mecca and a man performs the sacrifice. After the animal is dressed, the women takeover. Part of Gurban involves sharing with the less fortunate. Since not everyone can afford to purchase a sheep, the meat from the sheep is divided into seven portions. My family's and their relatives kept four shares and then gave the remaining three shares away to others.
Both lunch and dinner were shared with the extended family. The first meal was a dish of organs, onions and potatoes. I limited myself to liver, potatoes and onions. Sort of reminded me on Twee's liver and onion dinners, however bacon was not included. The second was boiled lamb. Lamb is not my favorite meat, but both meals were tasty. I however will not be including either of these meals in my cooking repertoire.
I am impressed at how respectful the sacrifices are and how nothing goes to waste. I also like the gathering of the family and how the family works together to perform the necessary tasks. All but the youngest help out. I'm glad that I got to witness this event.
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