As Ramadan ends; Eid Mubarak: Anyari Eche o!

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world observe a joyous three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking).

Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month which follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It is a time to give in charity to those in need, and celebrate with family and friends the completion of a month of blessings and joy.Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor. This donation is of actual food -- rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. -- to ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).

On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.

How is Eid al-Fitr Celebrated?

After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various family and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes for the holiday. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, the entire 3-day period is an official government/school holiday.

What to do on Eid day

On the day of Eid, there are some Sunnah acts that we should do, here is what the Prophet used to do on the day of Eid, May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him:
1. Rise early in the morning. Engage in takbir (saying “Allahu Akbar“) from fajr until the imam comes out for salah. Takbir is recommended for males, females, young and old.
2. Take a full bath. Clean the teeth.
3. Wear the best clothes you have. Appear in the best clean clothes dress that you can afford to, that are reasonable and modest. Wear perfume.
4. Eat something sweet like dates before leaving home.
5. Go to the Eid prayer location very early. (The Prophet used to offer Eid prayer in the central location, that is not to offer it in a mosque of a locality without any legitimate excuse.)
6. The Prophet used to go to the Eid Prayer location by one route and return through another route. He used to go for Eid on foot. He used to chant slowly on the way to the Eid prayer location the following words: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Laa ilaaha illallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Wa lillahil Hamd.“ (Translation: Allah is the greatest, He is the greatest. There is no god except Allah. He is the greatest. All praises and thanks are for Him.)
7. The Prophet used to give zakatul fitr before the Eid day. But if you have not done so please give now before the Eid. Giving just before Eid is ok but against the spirit and the purpose of it. Ideally, it should be given in advance so that the poor can enjoy their Eid. (This year in America andCanada it is $10 per person.)
8. Meet and greet. Wish every one the joy of Eid and show true signs of Islamic brotherhood by shaking hands and embracing and supplicating: “Taqabal Allahu Minna wa Minkum” (May Allah accept it from us and you).
9. Exchange gifts. It is also considered a good Islamic practice to visit one another and exchange gifts. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Exchange gifts in order to foster love.”
10. Show generosity. Remember the true spirit of Eid is reflected in our extreme generosity to the poor and the needy. So, be charitable as best as you can.
11. Seek pardon and acceptance. Make lots of istighfar (asking Allah for forgiveness) and pray that Allah accept our fast, prayers and devotion, and may He grant the Muslim community glory and success.