After a month of fasting, Id al-Fitr is a time for celebration, gratitude, and togetherness. It is a day of eating, drinking, and rejoicing in a halal way, as the Prophet (saw) said:
“These are days of eating and drinking, and celebrations for the people of Islam.”
The Meaning of Id al-Fitr
• Fitr means breaking the fast, marking the end of Ramadan.
• It is one of two Islamic celebrations, the other being ʿId al-Adha, which commemorates sacrifice during Hajj.
• The Prophet (saw) replaced pre-Islamic celebrations with these two blessed ʿIds.
Preparations for ʿId’
1. Ghusl (Ritual Bath) – A Sunnah practice for cleanliness.
2. Wear Your Best Clothes – The Prophet (saw) and his Companions wore their finest garments.
3. Eat Something Before ʿId Prayer – The Prophet (saw) would eat dates before going to the mosque.
4. Recite Takbir – Glorify Allah on the way to prayer:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, la ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa li-Allahi al-amd.
(Allah is the Greatest… There is no God but Allah… and to Allah belongs all praise.)
ʿId Prayer: A Blessed Gathering
• The ʿId prayer takes place in the mosque or an open field.
• Women, men, and children are encouraged to attend.
• The Prophet (saw) took a different route to and from the prayer, possibly to spread greetings and blessings.
Spreading Joy & Unity
• Greet Others – The Companions would say: “May Allah accept good deeds from us and from you.”
• Give Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer to purify your fast and help the needy.
• Visit Family & Friends – Strengthen ties and share happiness.
Celebrate with Gratitude
ʿId is not just about fun; it’s about thanking Allah for Ramadan’s blessings and spreading love in the community. Enjoy this special day with a joyful heart, a grateful soul, and a giving spirit!
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