Eid Al-Fitr
English book, p. 77
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Eid al-Fitr Before death, a person must live a careful and responsible life. After death, as a reward, he will be granted a life of complete freedom and happiness. The month of fasting is a sign of life before death, and the day of Eid al-Fitr is a sign of life after death. In the life before death, a person must live by the will of God. Whatever he does, he should stay within the boundaries set by God and avoid what is forbidden. For example, he should always speak the truth and avoid lying. He should earn honestly and not resort to stealing or cheating. In dealing with others, he should always be fair and never be unjust. His heart should be full of love and care, not hatred or jealousy. Fasting is a fundamental element of a responsible life. It reminds individuals to live carefully and with self-control in this world. During fasting, one ceases eating and drinking as per God’s command. This involves altering one’s routine, controlling desires, and following God’s will rather than one’s own. For one month, this constitutes a form of training. Fasting, therefore, imparts the lesson of a responsible life that should be led in this world. After this period of discipline in Ramadan, the day of Eid al-Fitr arrives on the first of Shawwal, when all the restrictions are lifted and a person is free to enjoy the day. If during Ramadan a person has learned the lesson of life before death, then on the day of Eid al-Fitr, he sees

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