Common Eid Traditions in The United States
Ramadan is set to start in March, and it's a period when Muslims fast during the day. The month is a practice of self-restraint and other virtues like kindness and generosity. At the end of Ramadan, there is a three-day feast called Eid al-Fitr. It's when families gather to celebrate the end of the holy month. So, let's explore common Eid Traditions in the United States.
Before we go into the Eid, let's check out the reason for this celebration.
Why is Eid al-Fitr Celebrated?
It takes a lot of self-restraint and discipline to fast throughout Ramadan. Believers do this for the sake of Allah (SWT). Ramadan is a period when believers strengthen their relationships with All(SWT) and pray for His mercy. Commemorating the end of the month is a joy to all Muslims.
Eid al-Fitr is a gift from Allah (SWT) to Muslims who have shown their dedication to the acts of worship during Ramadan. Eid is used to commemorate the ending of the month and is also a time for Charity (Zakat al-Fitr). Zakat al-Fitr is an essential aspect of Ramadan and Eid, and is also an obligatory task for all Muslims.
Eid al-Fitr Traditions in The United States
Greetings
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims start the Eid by sending greetings to one another. You'll see greetings like “Eid Mubarak” and replies “Taqaballahu Minna Wa Minkum” floating around. It's a time of joy as many people send greetings with smiles and good intentions.
Zakat
Zakat al-Fitr is also a significant Eid tradition in the United States. Muslims offer their Zakat a few days before Eid until the morning of the Eid and before the Eid prayer. Zakat is an obligatory charity that's said to wash off sins committed during Ramadan.
Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is a significant part of Ramadan. Muslims go to the prayer grounds in new clothes and enthusiasm to observe two rakats. There are several mosques in America, so people can go to any of the mosques that suit them.
Entertainment
After the Eid prayer, the Muslim women cook unique dishes to commemorate this occasion. They also play games while spending time with their Friends. The celebration ends after the third day.
Eid Gifts
Another Eid tradition in the United States is the exchange of gifts among families and friends. Parents also give their children different rewards, especially when they've done well with fasting. Also, people get Eid money from families, which they can put to good use. You'll find different Eid gifts you can give guests and relatives which will make their feet more firm upon Islam.
Eid Break
As a way of celebrating Eid, Muslims get a day or two break from school, work and other responsibilities. It's a way for everyone to enjoy themselves and give thanks for the successful completion of Ramadan. Kids can stay at home with their parents without the fear of missing an exam or tests.
Shawwal
After Ramadan comes Shawwal, and when Eid is over, the next thing is to endeavor to observe Sitta Shawwal- observing 6 additional fasts in teh Shawwal. It's also a common Eid Tradition in the United States.
Bottom Line
Eid al-Fitr is a widely celebrated occasion in Islam. It's one of the two major Eids, and it's very special to the Muslims. Eid traditions across the globe differ a bit. So, we've explored Ramadan in America and delved into the common Eid Traditions in the United States. Some traditions are similar to those in other countries, but you can check this out.
