ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr (عـيـد الـفـطر)
Definition
ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr (عـيـد الـفـطر), literally translated as “The Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most significant religious holidays in the Islamic calendar.
Etymology
- Arabic: عـيـد الـفـطر (ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr)
- Turkish: Ramazan Bayramı
The word “ʿĪdu” (عيد) means “festival” and “fiṭr” (فطر) means “breaking the fast.” Hence, ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr signifies the feast that celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan’s fasting.
Other Names
- ʿĪdu Ramaẓān: Festival of Ramadan
- ʿĪdu ʾṣ-Ṣadaqah: Feast of Alms
- ʿĪdu ʾṣ-Ṣag͟hīr: Minor Festival
Significance
ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr commences on the first day of Shawwāl, the month following Ramadan, and is marked by special prayers, almsgiving, and communal celebrations.
Almsgiving
Almsgiving (Ṣadaqatu ʾL-Fiṭr) is a significant aspect of ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr. It involves giving a specified amount of basic food commodities to the poor, ensuring they can join in the festivities. This practice purifies one’s fast from any indecent acts or speech.
Rituals
- Ṣalātu ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr: Special congregational prayers performed in large outdoor areas or mosques.
- K͟hut̤bah: A sermon delivered by the Imam after the Ḍuʿᾱ (prayers).
- Munājāt: Supplicatory prayers for the remission of sins, and various other blessings.
Celebrations
Post-prayers, Muslims celebrate by wearing their best clothes, visiting friends and family, giving gifts, and enjoying festive meals. In some cultures, sweets and special dishes are prepared for the occasion.
Cultural Observations
In India
Women gather in homes, indulge in festive songs, wear their best jewelry, and exchange gifts.
In Egypt
People wear new, or their best clothes, visit mosques for special prayers, and visit the tombs of relatives. Special foods like salted fish and sweet cakes are prepared.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Islam in the Modern World” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” edited by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam” by Reza Aslan
- “The Oxford Encyclopedia of Islam and Women” by Oxford University Press
Takeaways
- ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr: Marks the end of Ramadan
- Almsgiving: Fundamental practice ensuring the inclusion of the less fortunate
- Prayers and Sermons: Central to the day’s rituals
- Celebration: Entire community engagement
Conclusion
ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr serves as a concluding celebration of Ramadan, emphasizing spiritual renewal, community unity, and charity. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and generosity, uniting Muslims globally in shared worship and festivity.
