'A Brief History of the Meaning of Eid al-Fitr'
Eid al-Fitr, which means festival of breaking the fast in Arabic, celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Muslims typically abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset during this time, but on Eid al-Fitr they can resume normal activities once the sun has gone down. The three days that follow mark one of the most joyous times in the Islamic calendar, as people head to mosques to pray together and feast with friends and family members.
When was it established?
The origins of Eid al-Fitr are actually lost in history. The prophet Muhammad established it and his Companions kept to it, but its exact origins are unknown. It is believed to have been established between 632–634 CE. In fact, Muhammad himself gave us a clue: he instructed his followers that every community should fast on a specific day in a month called Sha’ban. The ninth day of Sha’ban was chosen as they did not know when their next chance would be to celebrate Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), which occurs during Ramadan; however, by fasting on the ninth day they would be prepared for its arrival – if indeed it did arrive that year!
What is being celebrated on this day?
Eids are considered to be a celebration, but they’re also a time for reflection. Muslims get together and reflect on things like gratitude and prayer. We give thanks to God for everything that he has done for us. Prayer is one way that we do that; prayer reminds us to think about how we can give back to God for all that he has given us. We also take time during Eids to remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves; we make donations and help with charities, recognizing our own good fortune at being able to do so.
Which month does it occur in?
To answer that question, you first have to figure out when Ramadan falls. During Ramadan, many Muslim's fast every day from dawn until sunset. The observance is a demonstration of their devotion to Allah and also an act of self-purification. The end of Ramadan is known as Eid al-Fitr and it typically occurs about 35 days after a new moon marking its start was observed. Most years, that would mean Eid in 2017 will be on July 6 or 7 in most locations (when it’s celebrated at all.)
Where did it originate from?
The history behind Eid al-Fitr dates back to pre-Islamic times. The ancient Arabians used to take a Sawm or fast for about three days each year during Ramadan, but when Muhammad became Islam's prophet in AD 610 he taught that Muslims should fast all day, every day, during Ramadan. Later on, an angel came to Muhammad and told him that they were concerned with some new followers who had just recently converted to Islam. They felt that if they had their own special festival (or holidays) it would help them feel closer to God and strengthen their faith. Therefore, Muhammad told his followers that they would now celebrate two Eids instead of one; one at the end of Ramadan and another at harvest time.
What is the significance of this festival in Islam?
Eid ul Fitr is a time to rejoice and give thanks to Allah for having granted us health, strength, sight, hearing and all good things throughout our lives. We thank Him also for making it possible for us to observe His holy month with faithfulness and sincerity. To celebrate Eid ul Fitr Muslims take part in morning prayers followed by breakfast together with their family and friends. Then there are visits and greetings among families and friends who have not seen each other since Ramadan. Muslims wish each other Eid Mubarak which means 'Blessed Festival'. Traditionally, food is cooked at home during Ramadan but on Eid ul Fitr Muslims go out and visit family or friends in order to share in their joy, often eating out as a group.
How is it celebrated by Muslims around the world?
Eid Al-Fitr is a three-day celebration that culminates in Eid prayers, marking the end of Ramadan and a joyous time for families to gather and celebrate. The first day has special significance: It is when gifts are exchanged and families come together for feasts. This first day also sees mosques filled with worshipers seeking blessings from God. During Eid Al-Fitr, Muslims give one another sweets, dates or money—an act known as eidi—to express good wishes. In some Muslim countries, it is customary to wear new clothes on at least one occasion during Eid; dressing up for either prayer or going out into public also holds great importance.
How do Muslims celebrate this holiday with their loved ones?
There are a number of ways Muslims celebrate and observe Eid. Some Muslims celebrate by going to a mosque and attending a special prayer service. Afterward, people exchange gifts and visit family members, friends, or neighbors. They often share sweets with one another and give money to help less fortunate people in their communities. Although spending time with loved ones is considered a key part of Eid celebrations, many Muslims go to religious services instead. Others put up decorations in their homes or visit nearby cemeteries to honor loved ones who have passed away recently—this is particularly true if someone has died during Ramadan or just before it ended. Many Islamic centers also provide free food at public events during the holiday so that everyone can enjoy some time together over meals.
Where did Muslims migrate and where did they settle?
According to Islamic history, Muslims didn’t migrate from Mecca or Medina en masse until many years after Muhammad’s death. In 632 CE, a group in Saudi Arabia pledged their allegiance to Muhammad’s successor (and family member), Abu Bakr. When Abu Bakr died two years later, Islam divided into sects based on who they believed should lead them: some said his successor should be another member of Muhammad’s family; others wanted it to be someone else. At that point, many new converts fled to different countries and regions outside of what is today considered the Middle East, including modern-day Africa and Europe.