Within the Islamic calendar, there are two separate Eid festivals. These festivals are known as Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha, respectively. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal, which is the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Adha follows the Hajj pilgrimage and Qurbani in Dhul Hijjah. It takes place on the 10th day of the 12th month.
When asked about pre-Islamic festivals, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stipulated the blessed festival of Eid: “Verily Allah has replaced them for you with something better than them: the day of (Eid) al-Adha and the day of (Eid) al-Fitr.” [Sahih Sunan Abi Dawood]
Since Eid al-Fitr is fast approaching, it is important to understand its significance and the reasoning behind its celebration. In addition to this, the Eid dates for 2024 are also discussed below.
The word Eid translates as “the festival of breaking the fast”, marking the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. This festival is a particularly significant time for Muslims in the UK and across the globe, enabling families to get together and share the joyous moments. After a month of abstinence and devotion to Allah (SWT), the festival allows Muslims to enjoy themselves with what they previously gave up in accordance with the requirements of their faith.
Ramadan is the month in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was first blessed with the Holy Qur’an revelation. During Ramadan, Muslims fast during daylight hours and engage in self-reflection. They also spend their time studying the Qur’an in order to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah (SWT). This month of devotion and reflection is completed with Eid ul-Fitr, which is a great opportunity for loved ones to come together and appreciate their blessings.
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So, whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days....”
- Quran 2:185
There is no fixed date for Eid-al-Fitr that recurs on a yearly basis. Instead, the time for Eid is dependent on the sighting of the moon. Eid-al-Fitr 2024 is estimated to fall on or near 10 April 2024. The sighting of the moon differs from country to country. Consult your local Mosque for confirmation of the date of Eid-al-Fitr 2024.
It takes a lot of effort and self-control to refrain from drinking and eating between the hours of daylight. The believers do this in obedience to Allah (SWT). It is a time for them to strengthen their spiritual relationship with Allah (SWT), supported by worship and prayers recommended in the noble month. To commemorate the fasting month’s success and hard work, Eid-al-Fitr is celebrated. The day of Eid is a beautiful gift of Allah (SWT) to the believers for showing dedication to acts of worship during the holy month.
Ahead of the festivities, prescribed rituals need to be followed to show thankfulness to Allah (SWT).
The day starts with the declaration of the greatness of Allah (SWT), which is known as Takbir. It is followed by the preparations for going out to the place of prayer. Taking a bath or ‘ghusl’ is recommended on Eid. It is important to cleanse and purify your entire body, put perfume on and dress in one’s best clothes. It is recommended to wear the finest clothes in line with the tradition of the companions and the Messenger (PBUH). The Eid prayer is observed out in the open if weather permits, with special supplications, said, and Eid greetings exchanged between the believers.
Before the commencement of the Eid prayer, it is obligatory for all Muslims to pay a donation called Zakat-al-Fitr. Also known as Fitrana, Zakat al-Fitr is given to the poor and needy, allowing them to participate in the joy of Eid.
Some families see the exchange of gifts amongst close family members and children. Special treats and delicacies are prepared to share with everyone. A hearty meal is enjoyed with loved ones, and visits to friends and relatives are paid. Eid is an expression of gratefulness on a believer’s part – an occasion of thanksgiving in the acknowledgement of the Might and Greatness of Allah (SWT). The believers are encouraged to celebrate it by staying within the limitations of faith. In the words of the Qur’an:
‘Worship God and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, the poor, the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet) ... Verily, God does not like such as are proud and boastful.’ - Quran 2:185
Muslim communities across the globe will anticipate these celebrations with enthusiasm through donations and other acts of kindness. From Zakat donations to Zakat al-Fitr, you can make a life-changing donation as prescribed in the Muslim faith.
Head over to our Zakat calculator to calculate your Zakat, or visit our Zakat al-Fitr page to contribute your Fitrana. Allah (SWT) mentions the importance of charity in the following verse:
‘Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and regular charity, will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.’ - Quran 2:277
Courtesy:Muslimaid.org
