The Significance of Eid in Islam Part 1: Eid-ul-Fitr

Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the Holy month of Ramadan. This isn’t to say it celebrates the end of Ramadan though, as it celebrates the accomplishment of an important obligation in Islam. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Therefore, it is a Muslims duty to observe fasting and to complete this blessed month. It is a day to thank Allah SWT for the strength, privilege and opportunity to be able to fulfil this Holy month.
 
Eid-ul-Fitr follows the final day* of fasting in Ramadan and is usually celebrated over three consecutive days. On this day, Muslims unite in the congregation and recite prayers shoulder to shoulder. Following the all-important recitation of prayers, they celebrate and rejoice with family and friends. Traditionally, a feast is prepared and enjoyed together. Visiting family and friends throughout the day is common. Muslims generally greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” on this day, which means “Eid blessings”.
 
Eid-ul-Fitr is also an all-important day to give charity and remember those who are far less fortunate than we are. Whilst we are out buying new clothes for the celebration of Eid and preparing extravagant meals, it is also important to remember those who don’t have these options readily available to them.
 
Zakat-ul-Fitr is also donated on this day, which is compulsory for even children. It is the responsibility of the head of the household to ensure this is paid accordingly. It is usually given prior to the Eid prayers. The significance of this is to ensure those in need of help are provided for and are given the opportunity to celebrate Eid as well.
 
The amount of Zakat-ul-Fitr is quite small. For more information on this, please click here.
 
So, whilst we are preparing ourselves for Eid this year, let's spare a thought for those out there who are not able to see the benefits of Eid. Let’s get together, do something nice for our fellow Muslims, and give them the opportunity to smile and enjoy this Eid with us.
 
You can do this through Muslim Aid’s Eid gift programme, be it is a small gesture or a big gesture; you can ensure somebody else out there has an Eid just as blessed as yours.
 
*Due to the Islamic Calendar being a lunar calendar, Eid is generally depicted by the sighting of the moon the night before. There can be a variety of date’s dependant on regional sightings.