13/05/2021
Notes on Eidl Fitr celebration!
1. The celebration of Eidl Fitr marks the end of the Islamic and holy month of Ramadhan. It also marks the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
2. Fasting during the month of Ramadhan is among the 5 pillars of Islam. For Christians, it is like among the 10 commandments that we must adhere to.
3. Eidl Fitr means "Feast of the Breaking of the Fast". Yesterday was our last fasting and we can eat during the day now. You can greet today your Muslim friends by saying, "Happy Eidl Fitr!" or the more generic phrase "Eid Mubarak", which means "have a blessed Eid!" But Eidl Fitr is also known in different labels across the Muslim world. In Southeast Asia (including the Phils), it is also known as "Hari Raya Aidilfitri", or "Hari Raya Puasa". "Hari Raya" means “Celebration Day.” Having said those, you can also alternatively greet us by saying, "Happy Hari Raya Puasa!"
4. The celebrations Muslims do today is also a form of "zakat" or giving back charitably. On this day, Muslims are especially reminded of their obligations to the poor. If financially capable, Muslims are to give the poor or charity groups the ritual "Fitrana" donations. Donations are not always monetary. It could also be in the form of basic necessities such as food and clothing.
5. Today is a sweet, festive day for Muslim families all over the world. Similar to the Christian Christmas feast, Eid day is a time of merriment, feasting, celebration, and the giving of Eidi (Eid gifts) - all in thanksgiving to Allah SWT.
Happy Hari Raya Puasa!
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