Eid ul Fitr: The significance of Eid and how to celebrate with gratitude and joy

Eid ul Fitr, often simply called Eid, is one of the most significant festivals in Islam, marking the end of Ramadan—the holy month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. Celebrated by over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide, Eid ul Fitr is a time of gratitude, joy, community, and charity. Its profound spiritual, historical, and social significance makes it a cornerstone of Islamic tradition.

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The spiritual significance of Eid ul Fitr

Eid ul Fitr, which means “Festival of Breaking the Fast”, is a divine reward for Muslims who have observed the rigorous fasting and spiritual discipline of Ramadan. It is a day of forgiveness, mercy, and thanksgiving to Allah (SWT) for the strength to complete the month-long fast.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) established Eid ul Fitr after migrating to Medina, where he observed people celebrating two festive days. He declared:

“Allah has given you two better days instead: Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha.” (Abu Dawud)

This highlights Eid’s divine origin and its role in strengthening faith and unity among Muslims.

Historical and religious roots

Eid ul Fitr commemorates the completion of Ramadan, the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making Eid a culmination of a sacred obligation.

Historically, the first Eid was celebrated in 624 CE after the victory in the Battle of Badr, reinforcing themes of divine support and gratitude. Since then, Eid has been a time for Muslims to express thanks, seek forgiveness, and renew their commitment to faith.

How to celebrate Eid ul Fitr with gratitude and joy

1. Performing the Eid prayer (Salat al-Eid)

The day begins with a special congregational prayer held in mosques or open spaces. The prayer consists of two rak’ahs (units) with additional takbirs (declarations of “Allahu Akbar”). Attending this prayer is highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) and fosters a sense of unity.

2. Giving Zakat al-Fitr (charity before Eid prayer)

Before the Eid prayer, Muslims must give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity meant to purify those who fasted from any shortcomings and ensure the poor can also celebrate. The amount is typically equivalent to a staple food item (like wheat or dates) per family member.

3. Wearing new or clean clothes

Dressing in one’s best attire symbolises renewal and respect for the occasion. Many cultures have traditional garments, such as thobes, kurtas, or colourful dresses, adding cultural richness to the celebration.

4. Exchanging greetings and gifts

The traditional Eid greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Taqabbal Allahu Minna Wa Minkum” (May Allah accept [good deeds] from us and you). Exchanging gifts, especially with children, spreads joy and strengthens bonds.

5. Feasting and sharing meals

After a month of fasting, Eid is a time for festive meals. Families gather to enjoy dishes like biryani, kebabs, sheer khurma, maamoul, and other regional delicacies. Sharing food with neighbours and the less fortunate embodies the spirit of generosity.

6. Visiting family and friends

Eid emphasises reconnecting with loved ones. Visiting relatives, especially elders, and reconciling with those with whom one may have conflicts is highly encouraged.

7. Remembering the less fortunate

True Eid joy comes from ensuring others are happy. Volunteering, donating, and including the needy in celebrations reflect Islam’s teachings of compassion.

The deeper lessons of Eid ul Fitr

Beyond festivities, Eid teaches:

Gratitude (Shukr): Acknowledging Allah’s blessings and using them wisely.

Community (Ummah): Strengthening bonds and fostering unity.

Self-discipline: Carrying Ramadan’s lessons of patience and piety forward.

Generosity: Following the Sunnah of giving and caring for others.

A celebration of faith and unity

Eid ul Fitr is more than a festival—it is a divine gift, a renewal of faith, and a global expression of Muslim unity. By observing its rituals with sincerity, gratitude, and joy, Muslims honour the essence of Islam: submission to Allah, compassion for humanity, and celebration of life’s blessings.

As the crescent moon heralds Eid, may it bring peace, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment to all. Eid Mubarak!

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