John Akram, Vice President, Board and Interfaith Council, Arizona Interfaith Movement Board

With Ramadan coming to an end, Muslims prepare for Eid al-Fitr.

The Festival of Eid Al Fitra means, “the feast of breaking of the Fast”. It is the culmination of Fasting in the month of Ramadan which started on March 10 and will possibly end on April 9, pending the sighting of the new Crescent Moon. The sighting of the New Moon which is a centuries old tradition is critical in determining whether the end of Ramadan will be. The sighting signifies either 28 or 30 days of the Fasting. Fasting is one of the Pillars of Al Islam.

The monthlong spiritual rejuvenation centers on fasting and devotion, allowing Muslims to spend additional time reading the Qur’an as well as perform special prayers and giving in charity. The celebration is actually a three-day-long festival.

Eid al-Fitr, a religious holiday, marks the end of Ramadan. To honor the special day, Muslims listen to a special prayer and sermon the morning of Eid Day. A community celebration including food and activities takes place in either a large park or event hall following the prayer and sermon. As part of the tradition, parents, relatives, or friends give young children various gifts such as new clothes or money.

The celebrations include special morning prayers called the Eid Prayer. After the prayers People greet each other with “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid” and with formal embraces. Sweet dishes are prepared at home and gifts are given to children and to those in need. In addition, Muslims are encouraged to forgive and seek forgiveness.

In Arizona, with over two dozen mosques and Islamic Centers around the state, and Muslims may
request to have the day off from school or work to travel or celebrate with family and friends. With that being said, Best wishes to all Muslims and their families on the occasion of Eid, and saying, “Eid Mubarak”!