Eid-ul-Fitr - The festival of the Breaking of the Fast

by Husna Inayathullah

Muslims in Sri Lanka will be celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr' (Ramadan Festival) during the first week of July. The festival begins at the first sight of the new moon in the sky. The month of 'Shawal' will mark the end of 'Ramadan.' Eid means recurring happiness or festivity. Ul Fitr means breaking of fast.

Thus Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawal, to mark the end of a month-long fast during the month of Ramadan. The end of Ramadan is marked by a big celebration called 'Eid-ul-Fitr', the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.

Around the world, Eid is celebrated with enthusiasm. Muslims from all walks of life can be seen attired in beautiful new clothes. Then visit the mosques to attend Eid prayers. Greetings of "Eid-Mubarak" or "Happy Eid" are exchanged.

A very important aspect of 'Eid' is charity, which all Muslims are expected to extend to the needy to buy new clothes and food so they too can celebrate. Eid-ul-Fitr is a day of joy and thanksgiving.

On this day, Muslims show their joy for health, strength and opportunities of life, which Allah has given them.

Muslims make it a point to complete reciting the Holy Quran which was revealed in the month of Ramadan to Prophet Muhammed by angel Jibreel at Cave Hira in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. They believe that it brings blessings to them.

The Ramadan festival is also a day of forgiveness and good feelings towards other human beings.

Muslims start the end of Ramadan celebrations by going to the mosque for special congregational prayers known as 'Salathul- Eid.'

It is a 'sunnah' to eat an odd number of dates before going to pray Salatul- Eid. Both men and women go to the mosque at different times as men and women will say their prayers separately.

There are special services outdoors and in Mosques. Processions are held through streets, and a special celebratory meal is eaten during daytime.

It is the first daytime meal Muslims would have in a month. During Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims dress in their finest clothes, give gifts to children and spend time with their friends and families.