Eid-al-Fitr: Origin, Significance and Celebrations

Eid-al-Fitr is one of the most popular Islamic holidays celebrated during the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, i.e., Shawwal. It marks the completion of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn till sunset. On this day, Muslims gather in public areas, primarily at mosques, and pray for their progress and well-being. They meet one another, exchange gifts, don new attire, and attend public and private gatherings.

Meaning of Eid-al-Fitr

Eid-al-Fitr literally means “Feast of Breaking the Fast.” It is the first of Islam’s two recognised festivals and is celebrated with lots of enthusiasm and joy all over the world. It is organised with enormous feasts and commemorates the gifts and blessings of Allah.

Date

The dates of Islamic holidays change every year in the Gregorian calendar since Islam has its own calendar, the Hijri calendar. The Hijri calendar, which is entirely lunar, makes assumptions about how long it takes the moon to go through each phase. The discovery of a new crescent moon by religious authorities marks the beginning of every Islamic month.

A lunar year is approximately 11 days shorter than a solar year and consists of 12 months but approximately 354 days. The result is that Islamic holidays advance by 10–11 days each year.

The first day of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, is the traditional date for Eid al-Fitr.

Background and Importance

It is believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the knowledge of Holy Quran during the month of Ramadan for the first time. Muslims observe a fast from sunrise to sunset and focus solely on prayer to Allah during this holy month. The Holy Month comes to a conclusion with the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr. This event is observed by Muslims to commemorate the successful end of Ramadan and includes a delectable supper and gatherings.

Celebrations 

Here are five widely practised customs related with Eid-al-Fitr:

1) Charity: Giving to charity is encouraged on Eid al-Fitr. Zakat translated as “that which purifies.” is a required charity given by wealthy individuals to those in need.

2) New Attire: On Eid al-Fitr, everyone is supposed to wear your nicest attire. For Eid, it is recommended that you wear brand-new clothing, or least, your best outfit. Shopping for or sewing for Eid is a common family holiday custom.

3) Special Prayers: On the occasion of Eid, special Eid prayers are offered to God. On the first day of Eid, there is a special discourse and morning prayer in the congregation. There are therefore 6 prayers on this day rather than 5. After the prayers, Muslims give the person next to them a hug or kiss and wish them a peaceful and joyous Eid.

4) Takbir: The Eid Takbir is a further well-liked custom. Throughout the days of Eid, this praise is recited (in congregation and/or privately), especially after each of the five daily prayers and the Eid prayer.

5) Food: Fasting is not permitted on Eid. After a month of fasting, this is a time to gather with family and friends and share meals.

Significance

The delights of Eid ul Fitr were once made available to all the destitute, the oppressed, and widows by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). On this day, every Muslim is expected to give to those in need and reflect on their blessings.

The special day represents qualities like perseverance, piety, holiness, and tenacity. Those who maintain the fast during Ramadan reap the benefits of their arduous spiritual discipline and month-long worship on this day of joy. Muslims express their appreciation to Allah for opening the gates of forgiveness and kindness during the holy month of Ramadan on this holy day.

The holiday serves as a reminder to Muslims to welcome members of all social and economic groups and to share the joy of celebrations with the disadvantaged, the needy, and the unloved.

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