“why is eid so significant to muslims?” - By suad aghrizen

The morning of Eid-Al Fitr 

As I wake up in the morning to the smell of Oud burning around my house, the month of spiritual healing has sadly come to an end. No more waking up before dawn to eat and pray, patiently looking at the clock as you wait for sunset to eat.

This day of celebration will begin with Eid prayers at dawn which usually take place at the mosque but praying at home is equally as important. After the prayers have taken place, the celebrations begin - Muslims are expected to adorn their finest clothes, the nicest perfumes and jewellery and women usually will get Henna on their hands to mark this exciting celebration. 

Eid is a time of celebration after accomplishing a rewarding month of fasting, many people will gather with family and friends to eat and of course exchange wonderful gifts! The importance of Eid is not just to celebrate the completion of fasting but is a time to remember those in need who are unable to celebrate Eid. Muslims are required to give ‘ZAKAT AL-FITR’ so the less fortunate around the world equally get to celebrate a month they all truly deserve.

Ramadan is one of the most holy and important months for Muslims around the world due to its significance. A month to devote yourself to faith and ultimately get closer to God. The Holy Quran was also revealed during Ramadan on the night of Laylat al-Qadr which translates to ‘Night of the abundant portion of blessing’. This night Muslims will stay up late and pray during the night as it is believed that all your wishes will come true.

Of course, Eid is celebrated with a touch of culture, for example in Turkey families and friends will exchange Baklava and Turkish Delights whereas in Afghanistan a popular Eid activity is to paint hard boiled eggs and have a food fight with them!

It is always extremely sad that Ramadan is only for 1 month and many people feel extremely empty when it has come to an end - it not only is about the giving up of food and drink but it’s the strength that God has rewarded to those he loves and wants to fast. We will now await next year for this beautiful month. Inshallah.

Surat Al-Baqarah 2:184- “…But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.”