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Monday, October 23, 2006

Eid Mubarak!

Greet your Muslim neighbors, friends and co-workers with a warm "Eid Mubarak!" today.

From islam.about.com: During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world observe a joyous three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking).

Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month which follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It is a time to give in charity to those in need, and celebrate with family and friends the completion of a month of blessings and joy.

Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor. This donation is of actual food -- rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. -- to ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).

On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.

After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various family and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes for the holiday.

During Eid, Muslims give thanks to Allah for His bounty and mercy, celebrate the holy days, and wish each other well. While appropriate words in any language are welcome, there are some traditional or common Arabic greetings that one may use or come across:
  • "Kul 'am wa enta bi-khair!"
    ("May every year find you in good health!")

  • "Eid Mubarak!"
    ("Blessed Eid!")

  • "Eid Saeed!"
    ("Happy Eid!")

  • "Taqabbala Allahu minna wa minkum."
    ("May Allah accept from us, and from you.")

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1 Comments:

Blogger Kuntry Konfession said...

one of the merriest time! we call it "idul-fitri" in indo!-somewhat like thanksgiving and new year put together! yippee-yay!
ps....i'm real happy you're becoming regular at your posts.
thank you.

12:21 AM

 

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