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Day and History: Eid al-Fitr, known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world to mark the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Its exact date varies each year and depends on the sighting of the moon. In Egypt, as in other Muslim-majority countries, it is a public holiday that can last from one to three days.
The history of Eid al-Fitr dates back to 624 CE when Prophet Muhammad received revelations from Allah (God) that led to its establishment. It is a day meant for special prayers, feasting, and rejoicing after completing a month-long period of fasting and spiritual reflection.
Traditions:
Prayer: The day typically begins with a special communal prayer called Salat al-Eid which is performed in large open areas like fields or at mosques.
Zakat al-Fitr: Before the prayer, Muslims are required to give a specific form of charity known as Zakat al-Fitr. This act ensures that even the less fortunate can enjoy the day's festivities.
New Clothes: It's customary for people to wear new clothes or their best outfits on this day to signify purity and renewal.
Gifting and Money: Children often receive 'Eidi' from their elders—a gift which is usually money.
Visiting Family and Friends: Egyptians visit family and friends throughout the day, often starting with the most senior relatives. It's customary to bring along sweets or gifts when visiting.
What People Do:
Feasting: After fasting during Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr serves as an occasion for elaborate feasts. Traditional dishes such as Fattah (rice with meat or chicken and bread with garlic sauce) are often prepared.
Sweets: Special desserts like Kahk (sugar-dusted cookies), Baklava, Basbousa, and Maamoul are enjoyed across Egypt during Eid.
Public Celebrations: Public spaces come alive with festivities including fairs, music performances, and activities for children.
In summary, Eid al-Fitr in Egypt reflects both religious devotion through prayers and charity while also embracing community spirit through family gatherings, gifting traditions, feasting on special dishes, enjoying sweets, wearing new clothes, giving out 'Eidi', and partaking in various forms of entertainment.
