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Day and History:
Eid al-Fitr, known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This day falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar. The history of Eid al-Fitr goes back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, who initiated this day of festivity for Muslims after fasting.
Traditions:
In Libya, as in other Muslim-majority countries, Eid al-Fitr is a time of joy and thanksgiving to Allah for providing strength during Ramadan. The traditions followed include:
Takbeerat: Voicing the Takbeer (declaring the greatness of Allah) from sunset on the last day of Ramadan until the start of Eid prayer.
Eid Prayer: Performing a special communal prayer (Salat al-Eid
) in large open areas or mosques early in the morning.
Zakat al-Fitr: Giving charity before the Eid prayer, known as Zakat al-Fitr
, which is meant to purify those who fast from any indecent act or speech and to help those in need.
Feasting: After a month-long fast, people celebrate by preparing and sharing various traditional foods and sweets such as "Ma'amoul" (date-filled cookies), "Baklava," and Libyan dishes like "Bazeen."
Activities on Eid Day:
On this day, Libyans engage in several activities that revolve around community and family:
Wearing New Clothes: It is customary for people to dress in new clothes or their best attire to mark the occasion.
Exchanging Greetings: People exchange greetings such as "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Eid) with family members, friends, and neighbors.
Giving Gifts: Children often receive gifts or money from elders, which adds to their excitement for the holiday.
Visiting Friends & Family: Many visit relatives' homes to spend time together; it's an opportunity for family reunions.
The celebrations usually last for three days, during which government offices and businesses are closed so that everyone can participate in festivities.