The Festival Of Eid

The Festival of Eid that pleases God. As people greet each other on Eid, it is important that only such words be uttered that express love and goodwill towards others. Eid should be a time of both spiritual reflection and shared humanity. In India, it is traditional to eat sewiyan (sweet vermicelli) on Eid al-Fitr. People exchange sweets and sweet dishes with each other. That is why, in this region, Eid al-Fitr is called Meethi Eid (Sweet Eid). In Egypt, it is known as ‘Eid al-Kiswa (Eid of Clothing). During the time of the Fatimid Caliphs in Egypt, it became a custom to distribute clothes to the poor on Eid al-Fitr. Consequently, Eid alFitr became known as ‘Eid al-Kiswa. Similarly, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated in a special way in every Muslim country. Gérard de Nerval, a French traveler, visited Turkey in the mid-19th century during Sultan Abdul Majid’s reign. He was in Istanbul on the day of Eid and described in detail how it was celebrated there. He wrote that in every home in Istanbul, special meals and sweet dishes were prepared. Anyone could enter any home and be welcomed to eat, as meals were ready at all times. Rich or poor, every Muslim treated guests with joy and respect, within their capacity. Festivals are found in every nation and culture. The purpose of any festival is collective happiness. Festivals are meant to increase mutual love and strengthen human relationships.