EID UL-FITR
Ramadan ends with a celebration known as Eid ul-Fitr “also referred to as
“Eid”, when Muslims not only celebrate the end of fasting, but also thank
God for the strength and support received throughout the month in
practicing self-control.
Eid ul-Fitr was first celebrated
in 624 AD by the Prophet
Muhammad and his
companions after the victory
of the Battle of Badr. Festivities
normally begin at the first
sight of the new moon;
however, many people today
rely on official news
confirmation of the new lunar
cycle rather than looking to the
sky themselves.
‘Eid Mubarak’ as seen above written in Arabic calligraphy
means ‘Happy Eid’, and is a common greeting Muslims extend
to one another during Eid ul-Fitr.
On the day of Eid, people dress
in their finest clothes, clean and
tidy up their homes, as well as pay visits to friends and family. During this
period, charity is even more important and Muslims are encouraged to do
their part by giving to those less fortunate, feeding the poor and making
donations to their local mosques. Eid is also a time for forgiveness and
making amends as Muslims are encouraged to forgive past transgressions.
It is not uncommon in many majority Muslim countries and Muslim
communities around the world to see Eid festivities take place all day and
throughout the night. There are commonly many special programs at local
mosques and in the streets where hundreds, if not thousands, of people can
be found taking part in celebrations. In Canada, Muslims will be celebrating
Eid ul-Fitr at local mosques, in their own homes and the homes friends and
family. The celebratory meal will be eaten during the daytime and will be
the first meal during the day that will have been eaten in a month.
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