Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and contribute 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-ul-Fitr is a unique festival. It has no relation with any historical event nor is it related to the changes of seasons or cycles of agriculture. It is not a festival related in any way to worldly affairs.
Its significance is purely spiritual. It is the day when the Muslims thank God for having given them the will, the strength and the endurance to observe fast and obey His commandment during the holy month of Ramadan.
This day, in Muslim world, brings rejoicing and happiness. The rejoicing is not, however, at the departure of the month of Ramadan; it is the happiness which man feels after successfully completing an important task.
It is celebrated for three days in a holiday called Eid-ul-Fitr (the Feast of Fast Breaking). Gifts are exchanged. Friends and family gather to pray in congregation.
The feast of Fitr is God's reward for those who fast during the holy month of Ramadan. In this month, man should try to add to his true knowledge of God, do acts of charity for the needy, renew his beliefs towards his Lord and this will be a real Bairam Feast (Turkish word meaning festival) for him. The prayers of the day of Bairam a reason of unity and solidarity of Muslims all over the world. On this day do honor God for His endless and all-enhancing mercy.
In view of the great significance attached to this day of Eid, numerous traditions consisting of prayers and worship of God on this day have been quoted from the Holy Prophet and his Ahl-al-Bait.
Taking a solemn bath (Ghusl) on the night preceding Eid is highly recommended (Sunnat). This is a night of great sanctity and profound virtues, and should be preferably spent in worship and prayer to God.
Imam Zainul Abedin used to spend this whole night in devotion, and has said: "This night is as important as that of Shab-e-Qadr" (that is to say, the odd night towards the latter part of Ramadan when the Holy Qur'an was first revealed to our Holy Prophet).
It is quoted from the Holy Prophet that "one who offers six Rakat prayers on this night reciting in each Rakat Sura 'Al-Hamd' once and Sura 'Qul Huwallah' five times God will pardon his sins".
The conception of Eid in Islam is not confined only to celebration extravagance, luxurious feasts, friendly handshakes and embraces. The Muslims should rather devote this day to the worship of God and should beseech Him to approve their virtuous deeds and forgive their sins. This is because the doors of God's pardon are kept open this day and His Blessings are bountiful.
Eid-ul-Fitr Prayers
It is measured by tradition to be an obligatory. This prayer is Sunnat during the period of occultation of the Imam-e-Zamana.
Ghusl (Purification Bath) on Eid day is sunnat, which should preferably be taken under a shelter and not under the open sky.
Before offering Eid prayers it is recommended to have a breakfast of dates. The specified time of Eid prayer is between sunrise and the sun's initial decline (Zawal). If this prayer happens to be missed it cannot be offered late as 'Qaza'. Women are exempted from this prayer. The Prayer of Eid-ul-Fitr can be performed individually if one has missed the Jama'at.
It is 'Mustahab' (recommended) to offer Eid prayers with two Kutbas.
Takbir before Namaz-e-Eid: "Allaaho Akbar, Allaaho Akbar, Laa Ilaaha Illallaah Wallaaho Akbar, Allaaho Akbar, Wa lillaahil Hamd. Alhamdulillah Alaa Maa Hadaanaa Walahu Shukr Alaa Maa Aulana".
This prayer consists of two Rakats. Niyyat (Intention) should be in these words: "I resolve to offer two Rakats Namaz-e-Eid, Sunnat Qurbatan Ellallah". This should be followed by "Takbir" (Allah-Ho-Akber). In the first Rakat after Sura 'Al-Hamd', recite Sura 'Ala' or The Most High. Then five times Dua-e-Qunoot, followed by Ruku and then Sajda. Then up again for the second Rakat. In the second Rakat after Sura 'Al-Hamd' recite Sura 'Shams' or The Sun and four times 'Dua-e-Qunoot'. After this the namaz should be completed like the Morning Prayer.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated 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.
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.
