The celebration of Eid-al-Fitr

Tom Langley talks about the importance of Eid-al-Fitr celebration

RAMADAN is a time for Muslims to concentrate on their spiritual growth: those who are able to are expected to abstain from eating and drinking during daylight hours for the month-long period. Eid-al-Fitr celebrates the end of the spiritual journey of fasting and refection.

Eid can be seen as the way of an individual easing from this state of fasting back into normal life, and for many will let them take the time to appreciate what they have and connect through Allah. The celebration period itself is typically three days long, however, it is longer in some places. Muslims are expected to make a monetary donation to charity, to support those in need.

For many Muslims, Eid will be a combination of spending time with family, praying with local groups as well as a personal reflection on their fasting experience. They will take the opportunity to wear their best clothes, spend time at Mosques and take part in communal prayers with their community. At the centre of this is the opportunity for participants to reflect on the personal growth they have made during the challenging month to show their devotion to Allah, and their grown connection with him and others.