5th Mar 2025
What is Eid? A Simple Guide to Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
Many non-Muslims often ask, "What is Eid?" Eid is a special Islamic occasion that takes place twice a year, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, while Eid al-Adha honors Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice. It is a time of prayer, feasting, and giving to those in need. Muslims celebrate by gathering with family, wearing new clothes, and visiting loved ones. This article will explore the meaning, significance, and traditions of Eid.
Understanding the Two Eids And Their Significance
Many people ask, "What is Eid?" Muslims celebrate two Eids every year, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Both are important days of joy, prayer, and gratitude. Each Eid has its own meaning and purpose in Islam.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr comes after Ramadan, the month of fasting. It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the Islamic month after Ramadan. Allah commands fasting in the Quran:
"O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, that you may become righteous." (Quran 2:183)
Fasting teaches patience, self-control, and empathy for the poor. When Ramadan ends, Eid al-Fitr is an occasion to thank Allah for the strength to fast.
Eid al-Fitr is a day of gratitude. Muslims pray, meet family, and eat special meals. It is a day of happiness after a month of worship.
How is Eid al-Fitr Celebrated?
Zakat al-Fitr
Before the Eid prayer, every Muslim must give Zakat al-Fitr, a small charity, to help the poor. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"The fast remains suspended between Heaven and Earth until the Sadaqat al-Fitr is paid."
This ensures that everyone, rich or poor, can enjoy Eid.
Eid al-Adha
Meaning and Timing: Honoring Prophet Ibrahim's Sacrifice
Eid al-Adha comes in Dhul-Hijjah, the month of Hajj (pilgrimage). It remembers Prophet Ibrahim’s test when Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son. Allah replaced the son with a ram, showing that obedience to Allah brings mercy.
Connection to Hajj
Eid al-Adha happens after the Hajj pilgrimage. Pilgrims in Makkah complete their journey, while Muslims everywhere celebrate. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"The greatest day in the sight of Allah, may He be blessed and exalted, is the Day of Sacrifice, then the day of resting (Yawm al-Qar)"
The Story Behind Eid al-Adha
Prophet Ibrahim had a dream that Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son. He obeyed without question, and his son also accepted. But Allah, in His mercy, replaced the boy with a ram.
"And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice." (Quran 37:107)
This story teaches trust in Allah and submission to His will.
Why Do Muslims Sacrifice Animals on Eid al-Adha?
Muslims sacrifice sheep, goats, cows, or camels to remember Ibrahim’s test. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
The son of Adam does no deed on the Day of Sacrifice that is dearer to Allah than shedding blood (of the sacrifice).
This is not just a ritual, it is an act of devotion.
Distribution of the Meat
The meat is divided into three parts:
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One-third for the family.
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One-third for relatives and friends.
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One-third for the poor and needy.
This sharing brings the community together and ensures that everyone has food.
The History of Eid
Eid has its roots in the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Eid al-Fitr was first celebrated after the fasting month of Ramadan, as a way to thank Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord." (Bukhari)
Eid al-Adha goes back to Prophet Ibrahim, who showed great faith when Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son. Allah replaced his son with a ram, as mentioned in the Quran:
"And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice." (Quran 37:107)
What is Eid Around the Globe?
To answer, "what is Eid" in a global context, we must recognize its diverse expressions. While the core religious practices of prayer and sacrifice remain consistent, the cultural adaptations vary greatly. In some regions, public celebrations feature parades and street festivals.
In others, Eid is primarily a family-centered event, marked by intimate gatherings and traditional meals. The foods served, the clothes worn, and the specific customs observed all reflect the unique cultural heritage of each Muslim community.
This global mosaic of Eid celebrations highlights the richness and diversity of the Muslim world, demonstrating how a shared faith can be expressed through a multitude of cultural lenses.
Core Eid Practices and Traditions
Preparations for Eid
Before Eid, Muslims prepare their homes and hearts for the special day. They clean their houses, decorate them, and buy new clothes. It lets people express joy and excitement, as families make plans to gather and celebrate.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged cleanliness and wearing good clothes for Eid through his actions.
People also prepare gifts for children and loved ones. Markets and shops are full as families buy sweets and special foods for the occasion.
Eid Prayers (Salat al-Eid)
The Eid prayer is one of the most important parts of the day. It is performed in large gatherings at mosques or open fields. The prayer consists of two rak‘ahs (units) followed by a sermon (khutbah), where the imam reminds people of faith, gratitude, and unity.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged everyone, including women and children, to attend the Eid prayer. After the prayer, Muslims greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” and embrace one another in joy.
Festive Meals and Foods
Eid allows for enjoying special meals with family and friends. Different cultures have unique dishes, but sweets like dates, baklava, and sheer khurma (sweet milk pudding) are common.
On Eid al-Adha, the meat from the sacrifice is used to prepare dishes like kebabs, biryani, and roasted lamb. Families gather to share meals and celebrate together.
Gift-Giving and Charity
Giving gifts is a beloved Eid tradition, especially for children. Parents and elders give money, called “Eidi,” as a token of love. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Exchange gifts, for it will increase love among you."
Charity is also important. Before Eid al-Fitr, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr to help the poor. On Eid al-Adha, they distribute meat from the sacrificed animal to those in need.
The Lunar Calendar and Moon Sighting
The Islamic Lunar Calendar
The Islamic calendar is based on the moon, not the sun. It has 12 months, but each month is either 29 or 30 days long. This means Islamic events, including Eid, move back by about 10 days each year in the solar calendar.
Eid al-Fitr is on the first day of Shawwal, and Eid al-Adha is on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. Because the calendar is lunar, the dates of Eid change every year.
The Moon Sighting (Hilal)
Eid begins when the new moon (hilal) is seen. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that Ramadan ends when the crescent moon of Shawwal is sighted. He said:
"Fast when you see the moon, and break your fast when you see it."
Scholars and moon-sighting committees look for the crescent moon to confirm Eid. Some rely on local sightings, while others follow global reports. Once the moon is seen, the announcement is made, and the joyous preparations for Eid begin.
Global Observances and Cultural Variations
Eid Traditions Around the World
Eid is celebrated in many ways across the world. In Turkey, people say “Bayram Mubarak” and visit elders. In Indonesia, families gather for large feasts. In India and Pakistan, children receive “Eidi” (money) from elders. In the Middle East, special sweets like Maamoul are prepared.
Duration of Eid Celebrations
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha can be celebrated for up to three days. Some countries extend the holiday for public festivities.
Eid Greetings and Their Meanings
Muslims greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid Sa’id” (Happy Eid), wishing joy and blessings for all.
What is Eid? Inclusivity and Respect
Can Non-Muslims Celebrate Eid?
While Eid is a Muslim occasion, non-Muslims are welcome to join the celebrations. Many Muslim families invite friends and neighbors to share meals and experience the joy of Eid.
How Can Non-Muslims Respectfully Participate?
Non-Muslims can wish “Eid Mubarak,” join feasts, and learn about the meaning of Eid. Respecting its religious significance shows kindness and understanding.
When Is Eid ul-Fitr 2025?
Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan. Since the Islamic calendar is based on the moon, the exact date of Eid changes every year. The confirmed date depends on the sighting of the new moon, which can vary by a day across different countries.
Typically, Islamic scholars and moon-sighting committees announce the official date the night before Eid.
For 2025, Eid ul-Fitr is expected to fall on Sunday, March 30, or Monday, April 1, depending on moon sightings in different regions.
What is Eid? It is an occasion of faith, gratitude, and togetherness. Muslims celebrate Eid with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of fasting, while Eid al-Adha honors sacrifice and devotion to Allah. Both remind Muslims to be kind, generous, and thankful. Eid brings people together in peace and joy, strengthening bonds within families and communities.