Eid Mubarak!

Eid Mubarak!

Eid was announced to be on Friday the 10th September 2010.

Eid ul Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal (the tenth month of the Islamic calendar) upon the sighting of the moon the night before. The day is marked by feasts, gatherings and various festivities. We celebrate on this day the end of fasting and our accomplishments for God during that time. We also celebrate the entire month of fasting, the month in which The Holy Quran was first bestowed upon mankind. It is important that we also thank God for the patience that he gave us during Ramadan and pray for forgiveness.

Eid is also a time to bond with our family and friends, and make stronger bonds with our relations and neighbours. The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “They are days of eating, drinking, and remembrance of God.” (Reported by Bukhari in his Sahih, an authoritative collection of the sayings of the Prophet.)

Eid is also an excellent opportunity to dispel feuds, give to the poor and pay particular attention to acts of charity and kindness. With this in mind, our community should continue to donate and do what we can to help the victims of the Pakistan flood. Imagine what it must be like to lose the little that you had and perhaps even lose your family members. Although we found fasting hard, we were safe in the knowledge of the fact that there would come a time when we can break our fast. Think back to what it felt like when you were hungry when you were fasting and then reflect on the people who are starving, with little hope of finding food. Aid is vital.

Also, I would like to bring your attention to the Christchurch earthquake that took place on Saturday in New Zealand, which has damaged 100,000 homes. Please do what you can do to help the victims there.

New Zealand earthquake donation: http://www.redcross.org.nz/donate?ad=652

Pakistan Flood donation: http://www.redcross.org.uk/

Lastly, remember to enjoy yourselves and appreciate your health, happiness and family!

For more information on the background, sunnas and importance of Eid, please follow the link: http://qa.sunnipath.com/issue_view.asp?HD=1&ID=651&CATE=115

Maahwish Mirza

Guest writer, student at Luton Sixth Form College