The meat is divided into three parts: One third of the animal is given to the poor and needy. The second part is given/shared with relatives, and the rest is kept for the family.
The families that can afford to buy a goat keep it chained up on their open air roof until the holiday arrives. One time, I was present for the sacrifice, which was interesting. It takes about three people to hold the sheep down. An experienced man rubs the goat's neck and says a prayer thanking the animal and God for providing food for them to eat. There is a special method for the cutting so that animal doesn't suffer. After the head is removed, it is skinned and hung up for the rest of the blood to drain out.
I admit, the first time I saw the sacrifice, it is was shocking. After the head was removed, it is sometimes common for the body to twitch. The first time I watched, the entire body got up and starting running around briefly, meaning that the cutter did not do a good job. I took pictures, but I think there is too much blood for this assignment.
What makes this tradition beautiful to me is that no part of the animal is wasted. Every single part of the animal is eaten or used. During this festival, I ate so much meat with friends and neighbor. I had people bring me meat to eat as a gift. I definitely loaded on my meat intake for the month! Another reason that I find this tradition beautiful is just seeing the sacrifice of the animal - and then, two hours later, eating it on your plate - makes you appreciate the meal even more.
The Moroccan culture is primarily a Muslim one.
