Whether it is Easter in Christianity, Hanukkah in Judaism or Eid in Islam, people of all religions celebrate and thank God for his bounties and blessings in various ways. Muslims around the world will be celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr, a festival at the end of the month of Ramadan, on Tuesday.
Twice a year, Muslims around the world celebrate festivals known as Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha.
Eid-ul-Fitr (the “festival of restoration,” pronounced “Eed-uhl-fit-her”) is celebrated at the end of the month of Ramadan to thank God for the blessed month of Ramadan and for the spiritual uplift and moral training that are gained during fasting days. Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan.
On the morning of this day, Muslims come together for congregational Eid prayer. It is an official holiday in Muslim countries. Since it is a festival, it is desirable to wear one’s best clothes.
Before Eid prayer, it is incumbent upon all who can possibly afford it to give some charity for the poor and needy of society. Sick people are visited.
This is part of Islamic teachings to remember the less fortunate of our society.
On this day, Muslim families visit each other and congratulate each other on the successful completion of the month of Ramadan. Special Eid greetings are exchanged, and like Christmas cards, “Happy Eid” cards are printed.
Kids especially wait for this day. They start planning and shopping for new dresses many days before Eid. Special meals are prepared in every home to serve visiting neighbors, friends and relatives.
Gifts are exchanged on this day, and kids especially receive gifts from their elders.
This is also a day for forgiving people and forgetting any complaints against each other. Family and social relations are renewed.
Source: The Anniston Star
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