Eid ul fitr is a special day for Muslims. It signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan - a month of fasting, worship and spiritual reflection. Below, we explore what Eid al-Fitr entails and share more details about its festivities.
What is Eid?
Eid is the Arabic word for ‘festival’ or ‘feast,’ but it is also commonly used to mean ‘celebration.’ In Islam, there are two major Eid celebrations by Muslims around the world. One is Eid al-Fitr, translated as “the feast of breaking the fast,” and the other is Eid al-Adha, translated as the “feast of sacrifice.”
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid ul fitr, also commonly referred to as the smaller Eid, marks the end of Ramadan each year, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. Meanwhile, Eid al-Adha occurs on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijjah, marking the end of Hajj (sacred pilgrimage).
How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?
Eid al-Fir is a time for celebration with family and loved ones. It is a three-day period of rest and good tidings, and there are many virtues to the day. Muslims are encouraged to do many things when celebrating Eid, such as:
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Pray Eid prayer
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Wear your best clothes and smell good
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Share gifts and glad tidings
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Make Du’a and engage in Ibaadah (worship) and sunnah acts of worship
Why is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of a significant event in Islam - the holy month of Ramadan. It is a spiritual celebration, recognizing Allah’s bestowal of iman (faith) and endurance. It is also a time to give charity (Zakat ul Fitr or Fitrana), a donation of food that must be given before Eid prayer.
When is Eid al Fitr 2024?
In 2024, Eid ul fitr is likely to take place on April 9th, depending on the sighting of the moon. This marks the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic Calendar.