Eid al-Fitr, also known as Eid ul-Fitr or simply Eid, is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims around the world. The exact date of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by the sighting of the ‘Hilaal’ -the first evening of the visible moon. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid al-Fitr translates to “Festival of Breaking the Fast.”
In New Zealand this year, Ramadan ended on the evening of 10 April 2024. This is when celebrations of Eid al-Fitr began. This festival often lasts three days, but many Muslims spread it over the month for convenience.
On the day of Eid, Muslims gather for special prayers, known as Salat al-Eid, usually held in large congregations at mosques, open fields, or community centres.
After the prayers, Muslims engage in various festivities, which often include:
- Sharing meals with family and friends.
- Exchanging gifts and greetings, including the Arabic phrase ” “Eid Mubarak” which is the prevalent greeting; however, there are acceptable versions in different languages and cultures. It is a way to say, “blessed feast” or “blessed festival,” it’s used often during the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
- Giving to charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr, to ensure that everyone can partake in the joyous occasion.
- Eid al-Fitr is a time of gratitude, forgiveness, and compassion, where Muslims come together to celebrate the completion of Ramadan and express thanks to Allah for the strength and blessings received during the month of fasting. It is also a time for reconciliation, as Muslims seek to mend relationships and foster unity within their communities.
Unitec Muslim Club is planning an Eid celebration at Unitec by the end of this month – Watch this space for more information!