EID-UL-FITR Rejoice In Sharing

T HE word Eid in Arabic means 'returning at regular intervals' and refers to the two annual Islamic religious celebrations. The fact that they occur in a regular cycle is important, for it gives a repeated opportunity for renewal, to forgive enemies, and contact people one has not seen for a long time. Although there are several special times in the Islamic calendar, there are really only two religious festivals. These are Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ulAdha. Eid-ul-Fitr concludes Sawm, the ritual fasting period of Ramazan, the fourth great pillar of Islam. Eid-ul-Fitr which marks the end of Ramazan is a day of thanksgiving and jubilation, as it signifies the successful completion of the sacred month of Ramazan, the time of earnest labour spent in fasting, prayers and study of the Quran. It is the loftiest achievement of moral exercises, which is celebrated with the greatest of zeal on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr. It is with this spirit of thanksgiving that Eid-ul-Fitr is observed all over the Muslim world, by offering prayers to God, and rejoicing on the accomplishment of an act of dedication and submission to the Almighty. The Muslims pay obeisance to the Lord in congregation— displaying the real spirit of brotherhood, equality and fraternity through congregational prayers and feasts. Real happiness lies in sharing the bounties that God has given us with others. An atmosphere of festivity and celebration can be found in all Muslim localities all over the world. There is no dearth of delights and merriment that accompanies any human celebrations. The poor and rich alike are attired in their best clothes, houses are cleaned and decorated, and greeting cards and gifts are exchanged. Delicious meals are cooked, and friends and relatives are invited. It is also an occasion when friends from different communities share this joyous occasion. They have meals together and take part in one another's happiness. Man is a social animal and he needs to interact with fellow human beings. Festivities and celebrations exist in all societies of the world. Likewise, for the Muslim community, this is a great occasion to interact EID-UL-FITR