World News
Eid Mubarak: What does it mean and how to wish Muslims well to celebrate the end of Ramadan?
Muslims around the world are celebrating the end of Ramadan, the holiest month in their faith. We have compiled some guidance on how to send warm wishes to Muslims in your community.
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Muslim faith wherein many of those participating fast from sunrise to sunset each day. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a holiday known as, Eid al-Fitr. Depending on which country the celebration can last between one to three days.
What does Eid Mubarak mean?
Ramadan ends on 12 May, and the celebration to commemorate its end is known as Eid al-Fitr. If you are on social media in the next few days you may see one phase repeated, “Eid Mubarak” which roughly translates to “Blessed Eid,” sort of like Happy Holidays. The phrase is used to bring good tiding to those who celebrate.
How do Muslims celebrate?
Islam has five key pillars that provide guidance to those within the faith. One of the pillars, Sawm, speaks to the importance of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. Another is Zakat or charity, and during the holy month, many Muslims increase the amount of their income that they give to charity.
Additionally, Eid al-Fitr is usually marked with a party where followers come together to celebrate. Gits are often exchanged and many Muslims decorate their home and cook traditional foods to enjoy with friends and family.
Wishing those in your community a happy Eid
If you want to wish your Muslim friends, co-workers, or neighbors well during this special time of year, here are a few options, “here's wishing you and your family Eid Mubarak,” or “Eid Mubarak to you and everyone at home.”
Many Muslims have experienced violence and discrimination in the last few decades in the United States. Recognizing the celebrations of those in your community is an easy gesture to show respect and signs that the practices are welcomed. Would you be off-put if a non-Christan wished you a Merry Christmas? Probably not. Very similar rules apply here, good faith messages of warm wishes are applicable across cultures, even ones that share different religions and holidays.
Situtaion in Palestine
The violence in Palestine has received international attention as many attacks have occurred during the holy month of Ramadan. The Gaza Strip which is home to more than two million Palestinians was bombarded in retaliation for missiles that were previously launched into Israeli airspace. The Israeli attacks in Gaza have claimed the lives of 69 people, 17 of which were children.