Eid in Arabic means a ‘festival’ or ‘feast’, and is the most spiritual and social activity within many Muslims’ lives. It’s not just rejoicing; it is a sign of brotherhood, being thankful, and obeying Allah. Every year, Muslims celebrate two Eids: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
The Quran highlights these days for great thankfulness to Allah for whatever endless blessings are bestowed on humankind, as well as calling for much charity. During the Eid festivals, Muslims gather in special prayers and feasts with acts of much charity to close up gaps in society and create a social bond. Festivals remind them of empathy, humbleness, and sharing to show concern about the less fortunate. Gathering the family and friends together to eat together, giving presents, or showing affection-this is but a way by which Eid means no less than love, unity, and humanity in their greatest sense. All this blend of spiritual and festive gives Eid its distinctive charm as a moment in the Islamic calendar awaited each year with a big thrill by millions. Let’s explore more
The Two Eids and Importance: Why Are There Two Eids?
Eid al-Fitr is the Eid that marks the end of the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting. The word “Fitr” means “breaking the fast”; indeed, Eid al-Fitr ends the period that Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. Eid al-Fitr 2025 could fall within March month of 2025, as it depends on the lunar calendar. It is a celebration of patience, self-restraint, and devotion that ends with rejoicing and thanksgiving for the strength given to endure the fasting.
Sunnah of Eid al-Fitr: The practices established by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for this day include, but are not limited to, performing the special Eid prayer in congregation, giving Zakat al-Fitr (charity) before prayer, donning the new or best clothes, and visiting relatives and friends to exchange greetings.
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is observed as the time when Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail in compliance with God’s command. But right at the very last moment, Allah provided a ram for sacrifice instead. Thus, Muslims from all corners of the world observe this Eid by performing slaughter of an animal (mostly a sheep, goat, or cow) and sharing that meat with family, relatives, and needy people. Eid al-Adha 2025 is most likely to fall in June 2025 as it coincides with the pilgrimage of Hajj at Mecca and depends on Lunar Calendar.
Sunnah of Eid al-Adha: Most significant of these Eid rites include the Eid prayer, the sacrifice of an animal, and the distribution. It reminds believers of the submission of Ibrahim to Allah and signifies the spendition of what was dearest for Allah’s sake.
Importance of Eid al-Adha and Connection with Hajj
Eid al-Adha is considered a really special occasion for several reasons:
Honoring Prophet Ibrahim’s Sacrifice: Eid al-Adha is all about remembering the great sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim. It reminds us of the importance of being willing to give up something valuable for the sake of Allah, in our own lives.
The Hajj Pilgrimage: Eid al-Adha also coincides with the end of Hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam. For those who are completing the pilgrimage, this Eid marks the end of a deeply spiritual experience, making it even more meaningful for them.
Sacrificing and Giving Back: The tradition of animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha symbolizes our suThebmission to Allah. It also encourages us to give to those in need, helping others and bringing our community closer together.
Connection with Hajj: Eid al-Adha marks the event whereby Prophet Ibrahim was willing to offer his son, Isma’il, to be sacrificed by his father on Allah’s will. Allah later replaced the latter with a ram, and both the prophet and his son have since then celebrated the occasion to show willingness in observing sacrifice.
The act of sacrifice is also one of the main rituals of the Hajj pilgrimage. During Hajj, Muslims performing the pilgrimage sacrifice an animal, mostly a goat, sheep, or cow, symbolizing following Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and submission to Allah. This act of sacrifice is performed subsequent to the standing at Arafat, which is one of the most significant rituals of Hajj, and this perfectly accords with the traditions as well as the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
Although Hajj is only obligatory for those who can afford it, Eid al-Adha is a day that is celebrated by Muslims around the world. On this day, Muslims around the world also offer a sacrifice (usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel), and the meat is distributed to family, friends, and those in need. The act of sacrifice during Eid is a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith, obedience, and willingness to sacrifice everything for Allah.
The purpose of Eid Mubarak
“Eid Mubarak” is the typical greeting that Muslims use during the festive occasion called Eid. It means ‘Blessed Eid’ or ‘Happy Eid’ and is intended to wish goodwill and blessings during the day. This is the way it sharing the joy and spreading kindness and happiness. Whenever someone greets with you with the word Eid Mubarak word the common reply can be the “Eid Mubarak”, “Eid Sa’id” meaning happy Eid or “Khair Mubarak”.
Why do Muslims celebrate Eid?
The Muslims celebrate Eid for several spiritual and social reasons.
Gratitude and Devotion to Allah: Eid is the expression of thanksgiving for all the strength and patience shown by fasting and all the other good deeds, including praying and giving in charity. Eid is a celebration to thank Allah for His grace and mercy.
Celebrate Unity and Community: This Eid is that occasion when people assemble for the holy prayer. All Muslims would stand together on such occasions of congregational worship. This unifies the siblings within the fraternity. It presents opportunities to people so they can reaffirm their relationship bonds with the family and close ones, relish foodstuffs, and render support to weaker brethren.
Charity and Compassion: An essential part of the Eid celebrations is giving to people in need. Zakat al-Fitr, a charity given before the Eid prayer, makes it possible for everyone, even the poor, to enjoy the bliss of Eid. This helps instill a feeling of oneness and sympathy within the community.
It is not haram not to celebrate Eid, but it is strongly recommended and highly encouraged for Muslims to celebrate it as part of their religious observance. Eid, particularly Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are sacred occasions in Islam, and there are many reasons why participating in these celebrations is important for Muslims. However, the action of not celebrating Eid does not make someone’s action sinful in the eyes of Allah, as long as they fulfill the other essential acts of worship and have valid reasons for not celebrating like healthy issues or financial problems.
Eid in the Quran
Eid itself is not mentioned in the Quran but is inferred from the importance of Ramadan, fasting, and charity. The Quran puts great emphasis on acts of worship such as fasting in Ramadan, giving charity, and performing prayers, which are all part of the Eid celebrations.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185): “The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey [then let him fast] a number of other days.”
Surah Al-Tawbah (9:103): “Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase.”
This verse tells us about importance of government giving Fitrana.
Key Sunnahs and Traditions
Eid isn’t just a celebration—it’s a meaningful time for Muslims to connect spiritually by following the Sunnahs that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) practiced. These traditions aren’t just rituals; they help Muslims deepen their faith and make the occasion even more special.
Ghusl: One of the first things you can do is perform Ghusl before going to the Eid prayer. This act of cleansing is like a spiritual refresh, both physically and mentally, as you get ready to join in worship with others.
Wearing the Best Clothes: On Eid, it’s common (and encouraged) to wear your finest or new clothes. This Sunnah adds to the day’s joy and celebrates the festive spirit, all while giving thanks to Allah for His countless blessings.
Eid Prayer: A major Sunnah of Eid is to pray the Eid prayer in congregation, whether it’s in a mosque or an open space. The prayer is often followed by a sermon, and it’s a powerful moment for the Muslim community to come together and express gratitude.
Giving Sadaqatul-Fitr: Before Eid al-Fitr, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity to help those who are less fortunate. Not only does this purify the fasts of those who’ve observed Ramadan, but it also ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can fully enjoy the Eid celebrations.
Exchanging Greetings and Gifts: One of the best parts of Eid is visiting family and friends and exchanging heartfelt “Eid Mubarak” wishes. This tradition helps us strengthen our bonds with loved ones and reminds us of the importance of community and love. Gifts are exchanged on Eid days and children get Eidis.
Takbir: Finally, the Takbir echoes through Eid celebrations as a beautiful declaration of Allah’s greatness:
الله أكبر، الله أكبر، لا إله إلا الله، الله أكبر، الله أكبر ولله الحمد
(“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Illallahu, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Wa Lillahil Hamd”).
How to Perform the Eid Salah
Eid Salah, or Eid prayer is highly recommended in Islam but is not obligatory like the five daily prayers, which are called Salah. It, however, holds great importance and is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah), which means that if a group of Muslims in a community performs it, others are absolved of the responsibility. If no one in the community performs the prayer, then others are obliged to step in and pray. It is the heart of the Eid celebration. It’s a community prayer that brings people together, often held in mosques, open fields, or special prayer grounds. It’s made up of two rakats, and here’s how it’s done:
Start with Wudu (Ablution): Before heading to the prayer ground, Muslims perform wudu, a cleansing ritual, to get ready for the prayer, after Ghusl if necessary.
Wear Your Best Clothes: Eid is all about celebrating, so many people dress in their finest clothes. It’s also common for families to coordinate their outfits to mark the special occasion.
Arrive Early: Since so many people attend the Eid prayer, it’s a good idea to get there early to secure a good spot and blessings of Allah.
Make the Niyyah (Intention): Before starting the prayer, Muslims make an intention in their hearts to offer the prayer to Allah.
The Eid Prayer: The Imam leads the prayer, and after that, he gives a sermon (khutbah) reminding everyone about the true meaning of Eid, charity, and the importance of family unity.
Give Zakat al-Fitr(Fitrana): Muslims also give Zakat al-Fitr, a charity to ensure that those who are less fortunate can also take part in the celebrations. Allah says in quran
“Those who spend their wealth [in Allah’s way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly – they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:274)
Each person of a Muslim house including dependents must pay Fitrana or Zakat al-Fitr which is almost Equal to price of 2 kilogrammes of staple food items such as rice, four and wheat.
How did Prophet Muhammad PBUH celebrated Eid?
In respect of Eid celebration, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) found it a tremendous joy to have as well as held it in a very simple fashion, which basically focused on worshipping, having unity, and charity. To start with his Eid al-Fitr, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would offer this special Eid prayer, usually an open space which would attract everybody in the locality to join together. Following prayer, Prophet (PBUH) used to distribute some percentage of his accumulated wealth as.
He called upon the Muslims to wear their best clothes on the day and to greet each other, thus spreading joy and good wishes. He spent time with his family, dined with friends, symbolizing unity and celebration. His tradition teaches that Eid was a day of thanks to Allah for his blessings but also a day of bonding with one’s community and charity to others.
What are 5 facts about Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant Islamic holidays. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset. Here are five key facts about this special day:
Eid al-Fitr is a celebration that marks the completion of Ramadan. Ramadan is a month of fasting, self-reflection, and devotion to Allah.
Special prayer: Salat al-Eid- The Muslims congregate for Salat al-Eid, usually in congregation in mosques or open fields, on the morning of Eid.
Charity: Zakat al-Fitr- Before performing the Eid prayer, Muslims must pay Zakat al-Fitr, a charity to help people who are not able to celebrate Eid. In this way, every individual, be it rich or poor, will have the ability to celebrate the festival.
Community celebration: Eid is a day when Muslims are allowed to get together, visit their family and friends, and celebrate the successful completion of their fast, so unity and joy spread throughout the community.
Feasts and new clothes: Festive meals and sweets are common, and there is a ritualistic wearing of new or fine clothes, showing happiness and appreciation for Allah’s favors.
What is Eid in Pakistan?
Eid in Pakistan is celebrated with all their might as it symbolizes the true expression of profound religious and cultural values. Special prayers are said in the mosques, followed by family gatherings, feasting, and charity work. On Eid al-Fitr, people offer thanks to God for having strength to endure the entire month of fasting during Ramadan. Eid al-Adha is also known as the day of sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim. On these days, Pakistanis wear new clothes, greet each other with “Eid Mubarak,” and visit relatives and friends to exchange gifts and share meals. The streets are decorated with lights and bazaars for special Eid bazaars offering sweets, traditional clothes, and festive items. Both Eids are national holidays. There are public events, rallies, and charity drives, which makes the occasion a moment of unity, good deeds, and happiness throughout the nation.
Which Eid is more important?
Although both are of equal importance in Islam, most people consider Eid al-Fitr a little bit more significant. Eid al-Fitr is the culmination of Ramadan, the blessed month of fasting; during this sacred month, Muslims observe introspection, spiritual improvement, and good deeds. The outcome of this devotional and sacrificious period is that the festival of Eid al-Fitr is one of the greatest pleasures in the world. It also serves as a re-uniting affair for the family, hence restrengthening the ties of community members and giving thanks for the favors Allah brought to them. Being such a significant day, Eid al-Adha connects with the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim and Hajj. It is characterized by obedience towards Allah’s will. Though this festival is very important spiritually, Eid al-Fitr is regarded as the significant celebration due to its relation to the completion of Ramadan and participation by all members in a community.
Why do we need Eid?
Eid is an excellent time for Muslims to celebrate at the mercy, blessings, and forgiveness of Allah. It reminds one of the importance of the fasting month of Ramadan and the sacrifices that Prophet Ibrahim had to make. Eid encourages Muslims to participate in charity activities, especially by giving Zakat al-Fitr so that the deprived can also feel the joy of the celebration. It strengthens community ties by bringing families together, fostering unity, and reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood. Eid reminds us all about thanksgiving, sympathy, and brotherliness. To a Muslim, it is spiritual revivification signifying the successful culmination of a sequence of fasting and prayers as well as a refresher on adhering to values such as philanthropy and humanitarianism.
What is the purpose of Eids?
For Islam, there are Eids which celebrate or mark worshipful moments, the sacrifices and submissive gestures Muslims were made to manifest in crucial occasions during the evolution of the Muslim religion. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. It is the festival where people rejoice and celebrate the successful completion of Ramadan, recognizing their spiritual discipline and growth during this sacred period. Eid al-Adha is celebrated to mark Prophet Ibrahim’s preparedness to sacrifice his son for Allah’s cause, emphasizing the themes of submission, devotion, and faith. These Eids are days of gaiety, three days by which Muslims meet to give charity, seek forgiveness, and to bond up again as a community. The celebrations also become a time of reflection about the mercy of Allah, the thanks for His mercy, and the charity walks in that ensure that everybody in dire need gets some access to Eid’s happenings by the rest of the Muslims.
What is Ramadan explained simply?
It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and has been regarded by all people throughout the world as a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection amongst Muslims. During the month, they abstain themselves from food and drink, from dawn till sunset, with the aim of purifying their soul, building up self-discipline, and to sympathize with the poor and needy. The fast is viewed as a means of enhancing the bond between Allah and oneself, seeking forgiveness, and strengthening devotion through acts of worship such as prayer and reading the Quran. Charity is also a major aspect during Ramadan since Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat, alms, to needy people. The month ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a happy occasion marking the end of the fast, where Muslims come together to celebrate with family, friends, and community, thanking Allah for the strength and blessings of the past month.
Conclusion: A Reflection on Eids and significance
With the knock of Eids in 2025, it reminds us of the beautiful virtues of the Islam; those are the ideals of oneness, alms-giving, spirituality, and faith. At the time when Muslims everywhere welcome Eid-al-Fitr with festivity and devotional joy and Eid al-Adha similarly, this act of fun fosters reflection towards self-improvement and closeness to Allah SWT. Like the teachings of Islam, the Apex Learning Academy is also a space for growth and discipline in the students so that they might be able to reach their peak and succeed in several avenues of life.
At Apex Learning Academy, we believe in nurturing both excellence and character, and this resonates deeply with the spiritual lessons of Eids. The month of Ramadan requires Muslims to be patient, disciplined, and dedicated; education in Apex Learning Academy fosters similar values. More than the hard work and sacrifices, the reflection that is in line with education is like efforts made during Ramadan and gratitude shared on Eid Mubarak.
Eid Mubarak means a blessed Eid, which is the fruit of efforts made in Ramadan. Just like the students of Apex Learning Academy, who with constant effort achieve their goals be it in academics or spiritual growth, Eid reminds us of the same thing. This is an opportunity for the students to introspect on the journey they are undertaking, much like how Eid serves as a reminder for all Muslims to give thanks and share their good fortune with others, especially on Eid ul Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The academy teaches these values that are reflected in such lessons: dedication, charity, and the community’s importance.
It further recognises cultural and spiritual observances like Eid as a rich cultural, heritage to learn about, in diverse ways of doing things worldwide. On such Eid celebrations, it is essential for the student to remember community strength and significance in family celebrations and the encouragement they need to place more emphasis on team spirit and team working in learning.
As we approach Eid 2025, we learn compassion, discipline, and oneness with greater responsibility from the teachings of Islam, just as we learn at Apex Learning Academy. Eid is not a time only for celebration; it is a period to introspect about our journey so far, to thank God for accomplishments, and give back to others. As any other attribute, while learners study, they ought to manage how to practice what is learnt about Eid and the moral lessons in life, outside class.