As the crescent moon gracefully adorns the night sky, marking the end of Ramadan, Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate the joyous occasion of Eid. Eid ul-Fitr, often referred to simply as Eid, is a significant festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide. This auspicious day not only signifies the end of a month of fasting, but it also encapsulates the spirit of unity, gratitude, and devotion to Allah.
When is Eid?
When is Eid, Eid ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, immediately following the completion of Ramadan, the month of fasting. The exact date of Eid is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which varies depending on geographical location. Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the moon, as it heralds the commencement of Eid festivities.
Preparations for Eid
Preparations for Eid commence well in advance, with individuals cleaning and decorating their homes, purchasing new clothes, and preparing special delicacies. It is customary for Muslims to engage in acts of charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr, before offering their Eid prayers. This charitable contribution ensures that the less fortunate members of the community can also partake in the celebrations and enjoy the festive spirit of Eid.
Eid Salah: The Special Prayer
Central to the celebrations of Eid ul-Fitr is the performance of the Eid Salah, or special congregational prayers, which are offered in the morning after sunrise. The Eid Salah consists of two rak'ahs (units of prayer) and is performed in an open space or a designated prayer ground, known as Eidgah or Musalla. Unlike the regular five daily prayers, Eid Salah does not include the adhan (call to prayer) or the iqamah (the call to commence prayer). Heres how to pray eid salah.
How to Perform Eid Salah
Performing Eid Salah is an essential aspect of the Eid celebrations, and it follows a specific method:
Intention (Niyyah): Begin by making the intention to perform the Eid Salah purely for the sake of Allah.
Takbirat al-Ihram: The prayer starts with the opening takbir, "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), which is followed by raising both hands up to the ears.
Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha: After the opening takbir, Surah Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Quran, is recited silently.
Additional Takbirs: Following the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha, the imam will lead the congregation in saying three additional takbirs, raising their hands with each takbir. It is customary for the congregation to follow the imam's actions.
Recitation of Surah Al-A'la and Al-Ghashiyah: After the additional takbirs, the imam recites Surah Al-A'la (Chapter 87) followed by Surah Al-Ghashiyah (Chapter 88) or other relevant verses from the Quran.
Ruku' and Sujood: The imam then performs the ruku' (bowing) and sujood (prostration), and the congregation follows suit, maintaining the sequence as in regular prayers.
Second Rak'ah: Following the first rak'ah, the congregation rises from sujood to perform the second rak'ah. The procedure for the second rak'ah is similar to the first rak'ah, including the additional takbirs.
Tashahhud and Salam: Upon completing the second rak'ah, the congregation sits for the tashahhud (testimony of faith) and offers salutations to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The prayer concludes with the salam, turning the head to the right and then to the left, conveying peace and blessings to those on either side.
After the Eid Salah, Muslims exchange greetings of "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Eid) and embrace one another as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity. Families gather to share festive meals, exchange gifts, and partake in communal celebrations, fostering bonds of kinship and camaraderie.
Conclusion
Eid ul-Fitr is a time of joy, reflection, and spiritual rejuvenation for Muslims worldwide. It serves as a testament to the resilience and devotion of the Muslim community, who, after a month of fasting and spiritual introspection, come together to celebrate the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah. Through acts of worship, charity, and fellowship, Eid reinforces the values of compassion, gratitude, and unity, embodying the essence of Islam. As the faithful gather to offer their prayers and rejoice in each other's company, Eid serves as a poignant reminder of the universal principles of faith, compassion, and brotherhood that transcend borders and cultures, uniting humanity in a shared celebration of faith and unity.
