Every Muslim loves the day of Eid. For a moment let us explore why
Eid is such a joyous and special occasion.
1. Sadaqatul Fitr
Muslims are commanded to spend on the less fortunate prior to the
Eid Salaah as a token of gratitude to Allah for all that He
provides. Sadaqatul Fitr is a special gift to the poor allowing them
to enjoy Eid as well. It seeks to build a community by breaking the
barriers between rich and poor. By relieving the suffering of the
less fortunate one feels an inner contentment.
2. Eid Salaah
Allah has prescribed a special prayer on the day of Eid which is
characterized by a number of unique features. There is no Azaan and
Iqaamah. There are a number of extra takbeers which are recited. A
khutbah follows the Salaah. This uniqueness and the fact that the
day begins with a prayer teaches Muslims an important lesson : Even
the days of celebration in Islam are linked to worship. Unlike other
nations and cultures Islam does not celebrate with music, dancing,
liquor and frivolous entertainment. The spirit of Islamic
celebration is filled with worship love, serenity and spirituality.
Eid Salaah is a reminder to Muslims that although the compulsory
fasting has ended but the relationship with Allah can never end.
This is a link and bond based on love and obedience to the beloved.
3. A few thoughts on the Day of Eid
When we and our children wear new clothes and shoes on Eid morning,
let us think of the thousands of Muslim children who are wearing
filthy and torn rags.
When we enjoy the tasty treats and delicacies of Eid, let us spare a
thought for the millions of Muslims who will have bread crumbs.
Appreciate freedom on the day of Eid. Spare a thought for the
thousands of Muslims languishing under unspeakable conditions in
prisons all over the world.
When we walk to the Eidgaah remember that there are other Muslims
who are walking to the battlefield to defend the deen of Islam.
Spare a few quiet moments on this Day of Eid to make Dua for our
innocent brothers and sisters who are being tortured all over the
world for no crime other than the fact that they are bearers of the
kalimah Laa Ilaaha illallaah Muhammadur Rasoolullah.
Filled with such thoughts and duas can we really justify going to
un-Islamic places. Apart from the shameless dressing, fashion
parading, intermingling of the sexes, music and pride which comes
with this there is a serious misrepresentation of the auspicious day
of Eid to the non-Muslims. May Allah grant us the ability of using
the day in conformance with the teachings of Islam. True joy and
contentment is only in remaining within the bounds of Islam.
Celebrating in ways which are alien to Islam only brings disgrace.
4. Sunnats of Eid
Make this a checklist for Eid Morning :
- Awake very early in the morning
- Use a miswaak
- Have a bath
- Dress in one's best available clothes ensuring that it conforms
with Shariah
- Use itr
- Eat a sweet dish (preferably dates before the Eid Salaah)
- Go early to the Eid Salaah
- Discharge Sadaqatul Fitr before going to the Eid Salaah
- Offer the Eid Salaah at the Eidgaah / Musallah
- Return from the Eid Salaah taking a route that is different from
the one that was taken when going
- Go to the Eid Salaah on foot. However, there is no harm in using
any means of conveyance if the Eid Musallah is a distance away
- Recite the following takbeer in a low voice while proceeding for
the Eid prayer : Allaahu Akbar Allaahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illallahu Wallaahu Akbar
Allaahu Akbar Walilaahil Hamd.
