by Cecilia Claire Widjaja, Secondary 1

What is Eid Al-fitr, you might ask? 

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawn to dusk fasting during Ramadan. Many Muslims gather with friends and family to complete salaat (prayers) in the morning of the Eid day. 

What else do they do to celebrate this momentous occasion? 

On the morning of Eid al-Fitr, Muslims wake up early, wash themselves, then they put on their best clothes and say “Allahu Akbar.” They then go to the mosque or an open field to pray the special Eid prayer and listen to a sermon. Before praying, they give charity called Zakat al-Fitr to help people in need. After the prayer, they greet each other with “Eid Mubarak,” visit family and friends, and enjoy a big meal together. Most muslims pray in the mosque or in their home ,the adults also give the children gifts or money called Eidi, as a token of celebration. Muslims also celebrate by wearing their best clothes and they also visit friends or family. After Ramadan, fasting is forbidden on the Day of Eid because it is a time of celebration, gratitude, and joy with others, as shown by Islamic teachings, which encourage feasting and sharing blessings instead of self-denial. Families also enjoy special meals like sheer khurma (a sweet dish in South Asia) and ma’moul (date-filled cookies in the Middle East).

Who created Eid al fitr? 

According to Muslim tradition, Prophet Muhammad, the last prophet of Islam, created the celebration of Eid al-Fitr,. He taught Muslims how to fast during Ramadan and celebrate with joy. Prophet Muhammad said Eid should be a day for praying, being happy, and helping others. His teachings still guide Muslims today.

Eid al-Fitr is a special day for Muslims to celebrate the end of Ramadan. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together, pray, and enjoy food and gifts. The day reminds Muslims to be thankful, kind, humble and generous, just like Prophet Muhammad taught. Eid is a happy time to share blessings with others and remember what is truly important.