What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar. The date falls with the new crescent moon of Shawwal is sighted.
It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. Eid al-Fitr is a time for joy, gratitude, and celebration.
Muslims all over the world gather with family and friends to exchange gifts, share meals, and offer prayers. It is a time to reflect on the spiritual journey of Ramadan and to renew one’s commitment to the principles of Islam, such as compassion, charity, and social justice.
What happens during Eid al-Fitr?
The festivities of Eid al-Fitr typically last for three days and are characterised by a variety of traditions and customs. In many Muslim-majority countries, people decorate their homes and streets with colourful lights and banners and prepare special meals and sweets, such as baklava, halwa, and sheer khurma.
One of the most important aspects of Eid al-Fitr is the act of giving to those in need. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation that helps provide food and other basic necessities to the less fortunate. This act of charity is meant to remind Muslims of the importance of caring for one another and to promote social solidarity and cohesion.
Eid al-Fitr is also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation. Muslims are encouraged to reach out to family members, friends, and even strangers, ask for forgiveness, and mend broken relationships. This act of reconciliation is seen as a way to purify the soul, and to promote peace and harmony within the community. As Eid al-Fitr approaches, it is important for everyone to understand the significance of this celebration. Whether you are Muslim or not, Eid al-Fitr is a reminder of the importance of faith, community, and compassion. It is a time to celebrate our common humanity and to come together in peace and harmony.
Send wishes to your Muslim friends and colleagues
Send messages to Muslim friends and colleagues wishing them a peaceful and joyous Eid al-Fitr and Eid Mubarak (an Arabic term that means “Blessed feast/festival’).
Top 5 things to know about Eid:
- Eid al-Fitr is the festival of breaking the fast: It marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan.
- Eid is celebrated worldwide: Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr with great joy and enthusiasm. Each country has its own unique traditions and customs.
- Eid is a time of giving: Muslims are encouraged to give to charity during Eid. This act of giving is known as Zakat al-Fitr and is meant to help the less fortunate.
- Eid involves prayers and celebrations: Muslims attend special Eid prayers in the morning and then spend the day celebrating with friends and family. There are often feasts, gift-giving, and other festivities.
- Eid promotes forgiveness and reconciliation: Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with others during Eid. It is a time to let go of grudges
