Feast up as we celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Photo by the Author

A month has passed since the start of Ramadan took place in the Philippines last March 23 with the announcement of the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta on the moonsighting. For the Ramadan, Muslims observed the sternest fasting from dusk to dawn. Today, we commemorate the Eid al-Fitr, or the Festival of Breaking the Fast, to cap off the holy month of Ramadan. 

This day serves as Allah’s recompense for His followers who joined the fast. As part of its tradition, the three-day religious celebration is comprised of prayer offerings, feasting, and social gathering. 

To understand the celebration more, I recently talked with a close Muslim acquaintance of mine and asked her about the depth of Ramadan to them. She responded that it is more than just fasting but a time for forgiveness, tranquility, and extended fervor.

Sawm, or fasting, is one of the five pillars of Islam, which makes it essential for all Muslims worldwide. Passing the age of puberty, one should commit to fasting, abstaining from food and drink, sexual relations, and piquing language and behavior. It is multifaceted and deeply entwined with its cultural, social, and spiritual roots. Taking part in abstinence during Ramadan shows their ability for self-restraint, which reflects their gratitude and awareness of Allah’s presence and provisions in their lives. 

Muslims from all around the world have distinctive ways of observing the much-awaited festival, with a subtle difference in the influence of location boundaries. Some go to celebrate on beaches and others give back by means of charity. One thing that is always present is a hearty feast and a dish with meat from an animal— sheep, goat, or cow. Deciding the date for Eid al-Fitr is a long agreement process depending on the sighting of the Shawwal Moon— an auspicious crescent moon. 

Eid al-Adha (predicted to start on the sunset of June 28, 2023) and Eid al-Fitr go hand in hand and are equally important as one is set to honor the sacrificial act of Prophet Abraham to Allah by offering his son, and the latter is to conclude the fast. Muslims come together and celebrate their strengthening faith and reinforce the values of generosity, compassion, and community. 

I wish to take this chance to thank my best friend—Mx. Norhayna Hadji Ali—for teaching me the proper way to greet others this holiday. Happy Eid Mubarak, as she said, means Blessed Eid. 

Let us unite and wish the Muslim community a bounty Eid Mubarak!