Understanding the Essence of Eid
Eid is a joyous celebration and a festival that holds a prestigious place in Islam, where Muslims following Prophet Muhammad, PBUH guidance honor Allah, SWT through moments that rejoice followers, bring happy hearts, and spread joy; the celebrations are separate with distinct meanings, yet both commemorate key events and reflect contrasting facets of the two festivals. Eid comes in types, with Eid ul-Fitr, often called small Eid, and Eid ul-Adha, known as big Eid, Qurbani Eid, Bakra Eid, or Eid al-Kabir, celebrated uniquely across the Muslim community.
Timing of Eid Celebrations
A common question arises about the type of Eid: Eid ul-Fitr occurs after Ramadan, making it the more widely known yet lesser of the two in global awareness.
Eid ul-Fitr – When and How
Eid ul-Fitr follows Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, based on the lunar system, marking the first Eid. The last 10 days of Ramadan carry blessings equivalent to thousand months, with fasting, charitable giving, and Eid celebrations commencing on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the year.
Observing Eid ul-Adha
Meanwhile, Eid ul-Adha is observed in the holiest period, during the 12th month of the lunar year, Dhul Hijjah, when prayers and Qurbani rituals occur; the lunar cycle causes dates to change about 10/11 days earlier each year.
Sharing Eid Greetings
During these holidays, Eid Mubarak is exchanged, with specificity as Eid ul-Fitr Mubarak or Eid ul-Adha Mubarak, depending on the different times of celebration.
Daily Practices on Eid ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr, lasting one day, celebrates Allah, SWT granting strength to complete the fast of Ramadan. The day begins by waking up, greeting family, performing Salah (prayers), ghusl (ablution), preparing clothes and attire, enjoying breakfast with friends, ensuring Zakat-ul-Fitr is paid before Eid Salah, joining congregation, exchanging greetings with fellow Muslims, visiting family and friends, giving thanks, and addressing any Fidya or Kaffarah with mercy to settle owed dues.
Significance of Eid ul-Fitr
It is particularly sacred, following the month of Ramadan, allowing Muslims to strengthen their bond with Allah, SWT, reciting the Qur’an, exercising will power, and enjoying the reward of being celebrated by the entire community.
Duration of Eid ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr is observed for one day, the first day of Shawwal, bringing joy and togetherness.
Exploring Eid ul-Adha
Eid ul-Adha follows the Hajj pilgrimage and is considered a great Eid with deep religious significance. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim, AS, who displayed obedience and willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail for Allah, SWT. Instead, Ismail was spared and replaced with a ram, marking a profound test. This is remembered through Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal, often a goat, after Eid Salah. Families and the community pray, exchange wishes, give gifts, feast, and celebrate with immense joy, naturally making the festive counter a part of social life, and the countdown to these festivals adds excitement.
Duration of Eid ul-Adha
The celebration lasts three days, promoting happiness, rejoice, and unity within the Muslim community, often recognized as a national holiday in Muslim-majority countries.
Connecting Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha
Despite different meanings, both Eids emphasize charity, with Zakat-ul-Fitr supporting the hungry, while Qurbani involves dividing the animal into parts, helping those in poverty. This spirit is crucial to Islam, reflecting Allah, SWT’s love, encouraging brothers and sisters worldwide to celebrate together, enhancing the festive atmosphere and strengthening the global festive counter.