Muslims all over the world are celebrating Eid Al Fitr which marks the successful completion of fasting from dawn to dusk during the holy month of Ramadan.
The celebration starts with chanting ‘Allahu Akbar or Takbeer’ upon the very sight of the new moon of Shawwal in the sky.
Like all other deeds, Muslims start the celebration in accordance with the order of Allah, who said: “And so that you may complete the number, and magnify Allah for guiding you, and that you may give thanks.” (2:185)
In Islam, there are only two celebrations: Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha (or Eid of Sacrifice).
Islamic celebrations are performed according to the strict directives given by the Lord of the Worlds. All such directives and decrees were taught and shown by the Prophet of Islam (S).
The Prophet of Allah (S) said: “Every nation has its festivals and these are your festivals (Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha)” and accordingly , the Prophet (S) legislated the first Eid Al Fitr in Madina in the year 624CE , the second year of his migration.
The celebration of Eid Al Fitr produces a sort of unexplainable and immeasurable pleasure in the minds of faithful Muslims. This is visible among the believers on Eid day which is regarded as a gratifying gift poured by Allah upon the believers for having successfully observed Ramadan.
Abandoning food and drinks from dawn to sundown is only a minor part of fasting. The more important and tough part is controlling the five sense of organs from all forbidden things.
The most important deed on Eid Al Fitr is the payment of Zakat Al Fitr which is to be started after sunset on the last day of Ramadan and ends with the Eid prayer. Zakat Al Fitr, which means Charity of Breaking the Fast, is compulsory for every self-supporting adult Muslim who has food in excess of his needs.
By paying Zakat Al Fitr, the Quran says Muslims can have purification of their fasting from any indecent speeches or deeds committed by them during Ramadan. (87:14-15).
Islam also promotes and encourages all Muslims to increase righteous deeds like voluntary prayers, giving charity to the destitute, helping others, visiting the sick, relatives and friends. By doing so, the hostility against others will be eliminated.
While Muslims are celebrating Eid, they should not forget to take a pledge before the Almighty Allah to refresh the spirit of mental and physical training that they have had during Ramdan for the rest of their lives. If their pledge or oath on the day of Eid is sincere, it would be easy for them to get rid of impurities from their souls by washing away all sorts of enmity and jealousy of others.
Wishing a happy and prosperous Eid to everyone in Bahrain, especially His Majesty King Hamad and members of the royal family.
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