TUESDAY, APRIL 30, 2024
Team Herald
Eid al-Fitr commonly referred to as “Eid” is an important Islamic festival that celebrates the end of Ramadan the holy month of fasting. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day, abstaining from food and drink as a means of purifying their minds and bodies. Beyond physical hunger, fasting in Ramadan teaches patience, self-control, and empathy towards those less fortunate. It is also believed that during this sacred month, good actions are multiplied, and sins are forgiven.
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated to mark the completion of Ramadan. Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It’s also a month in which good deeds are multiplied and sins are forgiven. Moreover, Ramadan holds a special significance as it marks the revelation of the holy book of Islam, Quran Sharif, from Allah.
Eid al-Fitr is a time to give charity which is called as Zakat. Zakat is a mandatory charity given by those who match the eligible criteria of wealth to those in need. Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Apart from this, the month of Ramadan is a month of training for Muslims because during this time, people observing Roza observe Namaz, give Sadaqah give Fitrah and help the poor.
Fitrah in Ramadan is obligatory for all Muslims and must be paid during a particular duration of time to be considered valid. Fitrah must be paid between the sunset of the last day of fasting and the starting of Eid prayers, which are performed soon after sunrise the next day. However, it can also be paid a couple of days before Eid-ul-Fitr.
Hafiz Usman Shiekh, the Imam at Mapusa Islamic centre, explains that Eid-Ul-Fitr is a celebration of gratitude for new life. It is believed that during the holy month of Ramzan, when an individual observes the fast, it is not just a physical abstinence from food and drink, but a holistic fast where one refrains from negative thoughts and actions. This month is also an opportunity to understand and empathize with the less fortunate by experiencing hunger and thirst. Thus, Eid-ul-Fitr marks the beginning of a fresh start for those who have successfully completed the month of fasting and gained control over their desires. Additionally, Fitra, the donation given during this time, is an important aspect of seeking forgiveness and purifying oneself from sins. It also serves as a means to help the underprivileged and enable them to celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid in a dignified manner.
Meanwhile, Asif Hussain, State President, Jamaat e Islami Hind also extend his greetings “Eid serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of living in harmony and spreading joy to all. Let's welcome this day with open hearts, and may its spirit inspire us to spread love and kindness throughout the year.
