Um Muhammed is a 35-year-old Iraqi woman. She currently lives in Al-Anbar-Faluja-Alshuhadaa and has benefited from IRW-Iraq food basket distribution for Ramadan. 

As a widow, she is the sole head of her family. Um Muhammed has four children of different ages, who all live with her. They are Muhammed (10 years old), Rasool (9 years old), Ali (8 years old) and Reem (6 years old).

She said, “I was widowed overnight and had to support my four children alone, which shocked me deeply. After the death of my husband, some benefactors gave me a cow, which I raised and whose milk I sell to the teachers of the village and to some neighbours. It is my only source of income to feed my children.”

Struggling to Provide for Her Family

Regarding the difficulties she faces in providing for her family in terms of food, water, health and other basic needs, Um Muhammed said, “Everything has become very expensive, which is stressful and uncomfortable for me.

“My children’s needs increase with the start of the school season, such as school fees, clothing, and an increase in seasonal diseases. One of my biggest challenges is keeping my children in school and not missing out on the opportunity to learn because I have lost it. The vacations greatly affect my income, forcing me to sell the milk for half its value to ensure my daily subsistence.”

Regarding hard times and the effect of food shortages on her family’s life, she said, “Sometimes my children sleep without dinner after a long night of crying, so my psychological state breaks down and I don’t sleep at night.” 

Daily Life in Iraq During Ramadan

Regarding the impact of the month of Ramadan on her life and what it means to her, she said, “I look forward to Ramadan because there is a spiritual atmosphere and people donate money and food, which allows me to save money to meet other basic needs.” 

She also discussed her daily routine during Ramadan. She said, “During Ramadan, we gather with our family members and neighbours to read the Quran and listen to religious lectures, which has given us a better understanding of the teachings of the religion and how to relate to others, especially during fasting.” 

As for their normal diet during Ramadan and throughout the year, she said, “We depend for our food on cereals and bread provided by the state rations, which are not enough for us. Sometimes I also depend on milk from my cow, so I heat the milk and give it to my children to make up for the lack of food. During Ramadan, our diet varies a bit. My children love the Makhlama dish, which consists of potatoes, onions, peppers, eggs and sometimes meat, if available. I also make pudding from my cow’s milk.”  

How Islamic Relief Helps

Regarding What is the impact of IR food distribution in her community during Ramadan, she stated that many people in my village suffer from poverty, so the Ramadan food basket is a great joy because it contains a variety of foods that we often cannot provide, as well as a sufficient amount for the month of Ramadan. 

As for how the Ramadan food package helped her and her family, she said that the Ramadan food basket allows her not to have to buy food, and also contains a wide variety of products, allowing her to cook more food, which the children look forward to and love to eat for Fotoor. 

When asked how she knows about IRW-Iraq and whether she has benefited from any other IRW-Iraq projects, she replied, “An IR Iraq employee visited us at home after a member of the village explained my living situation”. The employee asked me several questions and asked for information about my children, their ages and my livelihood. After a few days, one of the employees informed me of the distribution date. 

She was asked how we could improve our food packages for Ramadan. At that, she replied, “The food basket contains the necessary and basic products, especially during the month of Ramadan, and I think it meets all our needs.” 

Finally, she said, “You have brought joy to my home, which encourages me to take time to focus on worship during the month of Ramadan”. My children and I wish you much success. May Allah reward you in the best way possible. 

Yaqub Batrs Toma (76) is the head of the household and lives with his wife in Iraq. He currently resides in Ninawa, Teleskop and benefited from the IRW-Iraq Ramadan food basket distribution. 

How does he provide for himself and his family in terms of food? He said, “My wife and I live here alone, we are both old, we don’t have the ability to work and we don’t have children to support us, neighbours and charitable people help us.”

Regarding hard times and the effect of food shortages on his family’s life, he stated “We need food too much because we both have medical problems and take medication”, so we have to eat healthy food, but sometimes we have nothing to eat when we have no one to support us.”

Daily Life in Iraq During Ramadan

He found that the month of Ramadan had a significant impact on their lives. He also appreciated the warmth they received from the Muslims from their community and within Islamic Relief.

“We are Christians, but we see that it is a month of goodness and blessing with your help,” he stated.

When asked about the changes and community events during Ramadan, he said, “We spend all our time with my wife at home because we have no place to go.”

He also said, “We are Christians, but we celebrate with our Muslim neighbours, who offer us a dish from their kitchen. 

How Islamic Relief Helps

Regarding the impact of the IRW-Iraq food distribution in his community during Ramadan, he said, “Your support has made everyone happy, and us too, even though we are Christians.” 

Regarding how the Ramadan food package helped his family, he said, “Your food package made us happy because we saw that there is no discrimination between Muslims and Christians and that you support them all equally. 

When asked about how he came to know about IRW-Iraq and how he benefited from other projects he replied, “We knew you from neighbours who told us about your NGO and your great support. 

He was asked how we could improve our Ramadan food packages, to which he replied 

 “I think you are doing humanitarian work because the name of your NGO is Islamic, but you help everyone regardless of religion and nationality, but I hope you will continue this work and not limit yourself to the month of Ramadan.” 

Finally, he thanked the IRW Iraq organisation and wished them success. 

In Ramadan 2023, Islamic Relief distributed food packs to the most needy communities worldwide, including those most vulnerable in Indonesia.  

Around 2,580 food packs were distributed, benefiting around 10,320 individuals in need across Aceh, Cianjur and Jakarta. The content of the food pack provided covers a month’s worth of food.  

The program prioritised the most vulnerable people – those affected by disasters and the impact of poverty. Among these groups included female-headed households, pregnant and lactating mothers, orphans, elderly and individuals with disability. 

One of the recipients of the program includes Ibrahim (66), a Quran teacher, and his wife Khasdiana (63), who is a housewife.  

Unable to Earn a Livable Wage

Ibrahim was born and raised in Lam Asan Village, Indra Jaya District, Aceh Jaya in Indonesia. He has a physical disability that makes it hard for him to move around without mobility support, such as the crutches he uses now. To help him with these struggles, his wife regularly helps during his Quran classes as he’s teaching the children.

For food, Ibrahim solely relies on what he earns from the teaching Qur’an and charitable donations. Due to his disability, he is unable to find another job to improve his family’s financial situation.

He feels fortunate to live near flowing mountain water. Thus far, the resource continues to fulfil his family’s needs. He also is not charged any money for using it.

How Islamic Relief Helps 

Islamic Relief’s Ramadan food support aims to help fulfil family needs for food during Ramadan.

Ibrahim considered the Ramadan food package extremely helpful and helped him and his family survive the month. He is very grateful for the help in making it easier for him to fulfil his needs considering the increasing costs of food due to inflation.

Last Ramadan, in 2023, one of the ways Islamic Relief has tried to support vulnerable communities around the world is through food distribution projects. One of the countries these food packs were delivered to was Ethiopia.

Ethiopia experiences a wide range of major socio-economic effects. Internal ethnic conflicts, drought, continued political unrest and war, as well as the steadily rising cost of living, have all taken a massive toll on the population.  

To combat issues such as food insecurity that come about as a result, Islamic Relief food distribution projects aim to support those most in need. These include orphans, through their fasting guardians, elders, lactating and destitute mothers, IDPs (internally displaced persons), people in poverty and other vulnerable groups.  

One of the recipients includes Momina Warrio and her family of 6, who live in Weltane IDP camp in Meiso, Oromia in Ethiopia.

Struggling to feed their family

“Getting enough food is quite difficult for us because we don’t have a regular and dependable source of income.

“My husband and I do not have a steady source of income to buy enough food for ourselves and our kids. My husband is a labourer, and we are very reliant on his meagre wages to cover our daily expenses.

“I occasionally gather wood in the jungle and sell it for a few pennies in town to supplement our income. As my husband and I get older, it becomes more difficult to maintain a labour force, generate income, and feed our kids on a regular basis.”

“Our children will go hungry if I and my husband become ill and are unable to work at our labour jobs.”

Life as an Internally Displaced Family in Ethiopia

 “For us, experiencing the effects of food shortages is not new. We have lived with this ever since we left our home and became IDPs. We frequently suffer greatly from a lack of nourishment.  

“My husband and I will be forced to stay home during the rainy season because we are unable to travel to our regular workplaces. The entire family encountered hunger at that time due to a lack of food to eat, especially our kids. 

“Likewise, we experience challenges during fasting occasions like Ramadan due to an extreme absence of food for fitur (iftar) and suhur (suhoor).”

Ramadan While Internally Displaced in Ethiopia  

“In the past, before we became IDPs, we used to fast Ramadan with no challenges…as we were able to gather crops and cereals using our fertile farming lands.  

“We were physically and psychologically strong and economically better off to fast the whole month of Ramadan and benefit from its numerous spiritual benefits.  

“We used to eat a well-balanced diet during Ramadan or out of Ramadan. For instance, we could prepare and eat meat and meat-related meals, too many biscuits and cookies, barley and oat soup, kitfo, etc. But now the experience is totally different. 

“Food is extremely scarce in the Weltane IDP Centre. Due to the severe impoverishment in the neighbourhood, purchasing food is out of reach for all of us. 

“The majority of Muslims who practise fasting throughout Ramadan lack sufficient food and other basics. There have been occasions when we were fasting in Ramadan with no food and only drinking water.  

“This breaks our hearts as we are unable to fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan.” 

How Islamic Relief Helps 

In 2023, more than 6595 households and 32,975 individual rightsholders benefited from the food pack project. Both In-kind and cash voucher assistance modalities were utilised to deliver the Ramadan food support. 

“This Ramadan food package is a huge benefit to my family and my IDP neighbours because it alleviates the hardships, we are experiencing due to the food crisis,” Momina says.

“We are pleased that the pack includes the food items we frequently consume. Food costs increase during Ramadan, and we are unable to buy those expensive food items. We will be able to meet our food needs during and beyond Ramadan thanks to the food pack support.  

“We are grateful to Islamic Relief and its donors for their kind support of underprivileged families like ours. I thank IR and the givers for the kind assistance I received. I pray to Allah (SW) to accept the fasting and good deeds of all IR families, especially those who donated these Ramadan food packs.”

Ethiopia faces a wide range of major socio-economic issues. Internal ethnic conflicts, drought, continued political unrest and war, as well as the steadily rising cost of living have taken a toll on its population. And the situation is only worsening.

In the escalating humanitarian crisis, Islamic Relief is providing relief to the people of Ethiopia, including through our Ramadan project.

Implemented every year during the holy month, the Ramadan project aims to help the most vulnerable communities. These include orphans and their guardians, elders, new mothers, IDPs (internally displaced persons) and impoverished families.

Last year, in 2023, more than 6595 households and 32,975 rightsholders benefited from the project.

One of the recipients was Misra Ali Ahmed and her family, who live in an IDP camp in Meiso, Oromia in Ethiopia.

Unable to Afford Basic Necessities

As parents of 4, Misra and her husband struggle to provide for their and their children’s needs.

“I have no income; my husband works as a daily labourer, and we fulfil our daily necessities with his hard-earned money.

To be really honest, we cannot afford to feed our kids with the wages that my husband earns on a daily basis because his daily work will not always be there.”

To help with the bills, Misra would sometimes go to the forest during the summertime to collect wood to sell in the town nearby and make some money. However, it was still not enough to cover the food, clothing and other essentials the family needed daily.

“Feeding our five children at least once a day has been a burden for us as parents.”

Life as an Internally Displaced Family in Ethiopia

Misra and her family are IDPs. They had to flee their home because of the conflict between the Somali and Oromo tribes, leaving behind their livelihood.  

“We experienced the most difficult time when we first became IDPs. Since the first day we left our home, my family, especially my children, has been severely suffering from food shortages.  

“We had to settle in a remote area where there are no opportunities for work, generating money, or supporting our family. We don’t have any land to use for cultivating crops.  

“My husband will go to work with an empty stomach during times like Ramadan and the rainy season, when our food shortage becomes more and more challenging to handle. On these occasions, we will experience starvation, which is so tough to cope with.” 

Ramadan While Internally Displaced in Ethiopia  

“We have enthusiastically welcomed the holy month of Ramadan since it is a special and wonderful experience for us, despite the fact that we are dealing with serious socioeconomic challenges.  

“In the past, we used to have special occasions and distinctive everyday routines during the month of Ramadan. We used to prepare special meals like biscuits, soup, and cookies and share them with our relatives and neighbours.  

“We have no special diet either during Ramadan, (it’s) usually injera with shiro stew. There are some bad times (when) we miss Injera and Shiro, so we spend the whole day and night with an empty stomach. 

Likewise, without enough food supplies to go around in the camp, getting together with the family’s other IDP neighbours is a rare occurrence.  

“Unfortunately, for the past three years, we have fasted throughout Ramadan without having enough food or other essentials like electricity. These days, without proper food or electricity, we are fasting and experiencing a different Ramadan. 

“We used to spend a lot of time praying, visiting family, preparing unique traditional foods, and sharing Fitur with our loved ones.  

“(But now) there is no mosque nearby where anyone can perform tarawih prayers, and there is no electricity access to recite the glorious Qur’an in this blessed and holy month.”   

How Islamic Relief Helps 

“Indeed, Allah is always there to look after us, even though we lack access to better healthcare or a decent standard of living.  

“I consider myself to be a member of the Islamic Relief family, (as) this is not the first time that Islamic Relief has helped me.  

“In the organisation’s last two years of the Qurbani project, I obtained Qurbani meat packs. Additionally, I am included in the durable solution livelihood project that the organisation is implementing in the Weltane IDP centre.  

With this project, I and my IDP neighbours are deployed in the camel fattening initiative. I, along with the other nine families from the Weltane IDP community, have gotten 180,000 ETB from Islamic Relief and bought two baby camels that we are currently fattening. I’m hopeful that we’ll generate income and improve our standard of living.

Your Impact of Giving Food Packs

“This Ramadan food pack support will be particularly beneficial for my family and also the Weltane IDP fasting families, who have been struggling with an extreme shortage of food.  

“The food package includes 60 kg of wheat flour, 5 kg of split lentils, 5 kg of rice, and 2 litres of oil. (It) would greatly assist us in meeting our food provision needs for the upcoming two and three months.  

“As we have an extreme shortage of foods, these package contents will add some nutritional value to our diet. We can prepare lentil stew, rice porridge, soup, cookies, biscuit pancakes, and other kinds of meals for my children, and they will enjoy eating them. 

“Throughout Ramadan, we can fast without being concerned about getting Fitur meals. Our kids will like eating the cookies, biscuits, porridge, and pancakes we make for them.  

“I am sure every IDP family is truly happy as a result of this distribution of Ramadan food packs because it brings them joy and happiness. It significantly helps us to cut our higher food expenses and saves the time and effort we spend searching for food for our children. 

“I thank Islamic Relief and the Ramadan food pack donors for the generous support I have obtained today. And I ask Allah (SWT) to bless all IR families and these specific Ramadan food pack donors and accept their fasting and their good deeds during this holy month.” 

The beautiful month of Ramadan has passed, leaving most of us feeling sad and a little empty.

Days spent fasting have ended, nights spent doing Taraweeh and in worship have vanished, and family get-togethers for Iftar breaking fast have disappeared.

We miss the special feeling in our hearts – that one that kept us going despite our hunger and thirst. Many of us are afraid of the inevitable. That our busy schedules will catch up to us, making us fall back into our old routines and habits.

But, this doesn’t have to be the case. With a little dedication and some careful planning, you can keep the Ramadan momentum strong all year round.

Be Proactive in Shawwal, the Month After Ramadan

Shawwal is the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and begins its first day with Eid Al-Fitr. Many of us know it as the month after Ramadan and often don’t think much about it aside from Eid. However, there are also many opportunities for reward in it.

The six days of Shawwal are voluntary fasts one can observe in the month. Doing so holds immense rewards, as the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.”

Muslim

Fasting on the first day of Shawwal is prohibited, because this is when Eid Al-Fitr takes place. However, afterwards, one can fast for six days at any time during the month before its end. If it’s accepted by Allah (SWT), then the believer reaps the rewards of a year of fasting.

In turn, being the month straight after Ramadan, Shawwal is also a time to reflect on and continue the good habits we’ve built in the blessed month. To strengthen those habits, as well as our hearts and minds, for the months ahead.

Stay God-Conscious, Always

Firstly, it’s important to remind ourselves that the blessed month of Ramadan provides us with the perfect opportunity and the tools to reboot spiritually and to get closer to Allah (SWT). In fact, Ramadan is supposed to increase your faith and God-consciousness:

“Believers! Fasting has been prescribed for you–as it was prescribed for those before you–so that you may be conscious of God.”

Quran 2:183

But it shouldn’t end there. We should strive to be conscious of God at all times, not just during certain times of the year.

A simple way you can do this is through dhikr (Remembrance of God), through repeated du’a (supplications) or Qur’an recitations.

Prioritise Prayer Over Everything

During the month of Ramadan, many of us spend more time in devotion and prayer. One way to keep your Ramadan spirit alive and well throughout the year is by prioritising your prayers.

For example, if you usually pray late, start praying on time. If you don’t pray regularly, try sticking to the obligatory five. If you find yourself distracted during prayer, try being more present when you kneel in devotion to God. Consistency is key.

Build your relationship with the Qur’an

One of the key things Ramadan leaves us with is a closeness to the Qur’an. We listen to it, pray behind an imaam leading it, and try to increase our relationship with it. And with great reason!

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Recite the Qur’an, for on the Day of Resurrection it will come as an intercessor for those who recite it”

Sahih Muslim

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “One who is proficient in reciting the Qur’an is associated with the noble, pious (angel) scribes. As for he who stammers when reciting the Qur’an and find it difficult for him, he will be granted a double reward.”

Sahih Muslim

In the month of Shawwal, try to double down on your relationship with the Qur’an. Here are some key tips:

• Set aside a time daily to recite it, even if it as less as 10 minutes
• Accompany recitation with memorisation (of chosen parts) and understanding through Tafsir
• Try to internalise what you are reciting and reflect on the meaning.
• Join a Qur’an class to improve your tajweed, and thus recite the Qur’an as it should be recite it
• Set goals for what you want to achieve in your Qur’anic journey – perhaps completing it once every few months can be an attainable goal (with the ultimate aim of completing it once a month!)

Fast Regularly

While we are obligated to fast during the holy month of Ramadan, remember you can fast regularly throughout the year.

In addition to six fasts of Shawwal, there are many opportunities to fast outside of Ramadan. In fact, Aishah (RA) narrated:

“The Prophet (ﷺ) used to try to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.”

Tirmidhi, Nasai, and Ibn Majah

Fasting is another act of worship and its rewards are immense, so don’t underestimate the magnitude of what you could gain by following our beloved Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Sunnah.

Give Generously

Ramadan is also known as the month of charity; it is narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous during this blessed month.

But remember, your generosity and charity don’t have to stop at Ramadan. In fact, giving charity holds special significance in Islam with the Prophet (ﷺ) saying:

“The believer’s shade on the Day of Judgement will be his charity.”

Musnad Ahmad

As we live in increasingly challenging times and in a world where the level of human suffering is unprecedented, a small amount of charity could go a long way for someone in need.

A great way to give to charity all year round is by finding a cause that you’re passionate about and setting up a regular monthly donation, even if it’s just $2. That way, not only will you take the hassle out of donating, but you’ll be creating long-term change.

Shawwal. The 10th month of the Islamic calendar.

Many of us know it as the month after Ramadan. A month we begin by celebrating Eid Al-Fitr, a day filled with happiness and festivities.  

As it’s the first day of Shawwal we connect with family and friends on Eid al-Fitr. When we pray together, exchange greetings and gifts, and thank Allah (SWT) for allowing us to participate in and enjoy another blessed Ramadan. 

It’s also a month when many of us feel sad that Ramadan has passed. As we miss the opportunities for rewards and heightened spirituality we had during the month.  

However, there are also many ways to gain more Ramadan-like feelings and rewards in Shawwal.  

What is Shawwal? – A month to continue the goodness 

Shawwal is the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and begins its first day with Eid Al-Fitr.

It is also renowned for the six days of Shawwal. These are six voluntary fasts one can complete at any time throughout the month of Shawwal (except on Eid al-Fitr) and doing so holds immense rewards.

For the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.”

Muslim

Doing these six fasts is recommended as a means of redeeming any shortcomings in the quality of our fasts in the month of Ramadan. What’s more, they are equivalent to a year of fasting if accepted by Allah (SWT). 

Scholars have also considered one’s intention to fast the six days of Shawwal as a sign that their observation of Ramadan has been accepted.

In fact, Ibn Rajab (RA) said that doing these fasts would be a way of demonstrating our gratitude to Allah (SWT). For the blessings, mercy, and reward that Ramadan has to offer. 

“[Allah wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful”

Qur’an 2:185

As such, Shawwal marks a precious time to reflect on and continue the good habits we gained in the preceding month: the blessed month of Ramadan. An important month to centre the mind, body and soul for the remainder of the year and beyond. 

Key Dates in Shawwal: Eid Al-Fitr

The first day of Shawwal is also when Muslims celebrate Eid Al-Fitr, one of the celebrations recognised in Islam. The other is Eid al-Adha, observed on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic Calendar.

On Eid al-Fitr, Muslims come together to enjoy the reward of observing and completing the holy month of Ramadan. They attend the Eid prayer and pay Zakat al-Fitr. It is also a day of festivities. When community members dress their best and exchange greetings, gifts and food with family and friends.

The First Month of the Hajj Period

Shawwal is the first of three months (before the month of Dhul Hijjah) in which some of the acts of Hajj can begin to be performed, such as the Tawaf of Arrival. The period of Hajj also begins in Shawwal, which is otherwise called Ash-hur Al-Hajj or the months of Hajj. 

When does Shawwal begin and end?

The sighting of the new moon of Shawwal signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan, and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr and its festivities.

This year, the first day of Shawwal begins on the evening of Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Eid prayer and the festivities of Eid al-Fitr take place on the following day Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Shawwal 2024 ends on Wednesday, May 8 May.

The six voluntary fasts of Shawwal can take place at any time throughout the month. However, one cannot fast on the first day of the month, as it is forbidden to fast on Eid al-Fitr.

“The Prophet (ﷺ) forbade fasting on the day of al-Fitr and al-Nahr.”

Sahih Bukhari

Keep the blessings of Ramadan going

With our spirituality renewed, we all want to keep hold of that feeling at the end of Ramadan – that closeness to Allah (SWT). SubhanAllah, the deeds most loved by Allah are those done regularly – even if they are small. 

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant even if it were little.”

Sahih Bukhari

So don’t let go of that feeling – hold on to Allah (SWT)’s love. Giving regularly, even just $10 a month can help transform the lives of communities suffering the effects of conflict and natural disasters.

The day of Eid is a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness for Muslims around the world. It is an occasion that celebrates the successful completion of Ramadan, for Eid al-Fitr or Hajj, for Eid al-Adha.

To truly appreciate the beauty of the festival, we should understand and follow its Sunan. These are the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) performed on this special day. In this article, we explore the Sunan of Eid day and discuss its significance.

Performing Ghusl (Ritual Bath)

One of the first Sunnah is to perform ghusl, a full-body ritual bath, before leaving for the Eid prayer. This act of purification signifies physical and spiritual cleanliness as Muslims gather to offer their gratitude and prayers to Allah.

Wearing One’s Best Clothes

On Eid, it is a sunnah to wear our best clothes, or even purchase new clothes for the occasion. This practice symbolises respect and honour for the day. It is also a way to exhibit gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His countless blessings.

Eating Before Leaving for Eid Prayer (Eid al-Fitr)

For Eid al-Fitr, it is sunnah to eat an odd number of dates or something sweet before leaving for the Eid prayer. This act breaks the fast and marks the end of Ramadan, signifying that Muslims are no longer fasting and can now enjoy the festive celebration.

Reciting Takbeer

The recitation of takbeer is an essential sunnah for Eid day. Muslims should recite the takbeer (“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa Lillahil Hamd”) while leaving their homes for the Eid prayer and until the prayer begins. The takbeer is a proclamation of Allah’s greatness and a way to glorify Him for the successful completion of Ramadan or Hajj.

Attending the Eid Prayer

The Eid prayer is a significant part of the day’s celebration. It is an opportunity for the entire Muslim community to come together in unity and thankfulness. Muslims should attend the prayer, including women, children, and the elderly, to foster a sense of community and togetherness.

Walking to the Eid Prayer

It is recommended to walk to the Eid prayer, if possible, as this was the practice of the Prophet (PBUH). Walking to the prayer symbolises humility and submission to Allah (SWT).

Offering the Eid Greeting

After the Eid prayer, Muslims should greet one another with the traditional greeting, “Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept (our good deeds) from us and you). This greeting fosters a sense of unity and love among the community and reminds Muslims of their shared faith and devotion.

Eid is a joyous occasion that brings Muslims together in celebration and gratitude. By reviving and practising the Sunan of Eid day, as exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Muslims can strengthen their faith, enhance the spirit of unity, and experience the true essence of this blessed day.

Prayer (Salah) is a crucial part of Eid celebrations, both for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. This year, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on the evening of Tuesday, April 9, 2024. While Eid al-Adha is expected to occur on Sunday, June 16, 2024.

On both festivals, Muslims gather together to perform a special congregational prayer, as well as celebrate and give thanks to Allah (SWT). So how do Muslims perform the Eid prayer?

What time is Eid prayer?

Eid prayer (Salah) takes place in the early morning (after Fajr) on the first day of Eid. Muslims are encouraged to pray in Jama’ah (congregation) with their local Muslim community on occasions such as these.

Please check with your local mosque for the prayer schedule in your local area. If you pray with your local Muslim community, please check when and where they will be performing Eid prayer.

How to perform Eid prayer

Before you begin the prayer, when you first get up in the morning:

• Make ghusl (the ritual ablution).
• For Eid al-Fitr, it’s sunnah to eat something before prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) ate dates before going out to prayer. (Sahih Bukhari).
• Wear the best clothes you have! Muslims are encouraged to clean themselves, dress in their best clothes and smell good for a day of celebration!
• Say the general takbeerat on the way to Eid prayer.
• For Eid al-Fitr, make sure you pay your Fitrana (Zakat al Fitr) before the start of prayer if you haven’t already!

When you’re ready to pray

• Make the intention to perform Eid prayer.
• Give the opening takbeer (‘Allahu Akbar’) with the imam.
• Say the opening supplication quietly to yourself.
• Give 3 more takbeer with the imam, raising your hands out for each.
• Listen to the imam recite Surah al-Fatihah and an additional surah.
• Say ‘Allahu Akbar’ while moving into ruku (bowing) with the imam and continue the prayer cycle as normal.
• In the second rakah, listen to the imam recite Surah al-Fatihah and an additional surah.
• Give 3 additional takbeer with the imam. After the third and final takbeer, place your hands to your sides before doing the ruku again.
• Say ‘Allahu Akbar’ while moving into the bowing position with the imam and complete the prayer cycle as normal.

*Please note: This is the Hanafi method of performing Eid prayer. If the imam recites more takbeer, please follow the imam.

Regardless of when or where you are celebrating Eid, may the blessed festival be one of happiness, peace and immense blessings for you and your loved ones.

May Allah accept good deeds from us and from you! Eid Mubarak!

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a significant celebration in Islam. This year, it is expected to fall on the evening of April 9, 2024, pending the sighting of the moon.

The celebration occurs at the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, when the new moon for the following month, Shawwal, is sighted. But why and how do Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr?

What is Eid al-Fitr?

In Islam, Muslims celebrate two Eids, one at the end of Ramadan and another on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. Eid al-Fitr is a festival that marks the end of Ramadan.

Muslims celebrate it on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, upon the sighting of the new moon. This differs from Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of the Sacrifice”, which occurs in Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic Calendar.

It’s also a celebration that serves as a reward to Muslims for fasting from dawn to dusk and abstaining from physical needs and bad deeds for Allah (SWT)’s sake. Ramadan is a long spiritual journey Muslims take to purify their souls and strengthen their faith in Allah (SWT).

Therefore, we celebrate this Eid as a way of expressing gratitude to Allah for allowing us to fast during Ramadan, seek forgiveness in it and earn numerous blessings from it. This is what makes the festival a time of joy, celebration and community.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is a time of joy and celebration. A time when Muslims gather with family and friends, exchange gifts, share food and engage in other festivities.

Some of the common traditions associated with the blessed day include:

Eid prayer – Muslims gather in large congregations in mosques or open spaces to perform the Eid prayer, which is a special prayer consisting of two units (rak’ahs).

Giving gifts – Muslims exchange gifts with family and friends, especially children, as a way of expressing love and gratitude.

Sharing food – Muslims prepare and share feasts with family and friends, often featuring traditional dishes and sweets.

Dressing one’s best – Muslims dress up in their best clothes, often traditional clothing, to mark the special occasion.

Visiting loved ones – Muslims visit relatives, friends, and neighbours to exchange greetings and share food and sweets.

The Importance of Zakat al-Fitr

Zakat al-Fitr (also known as Fitrana) is a compulsory form of charity specific to Eid al-Fitr. Muslims must give it before the Eid prayer on the day of Eid.

This way, we can ensure the poor and needy of our Ummah around the world can also enjoy the festivities of Eid al-Fitr with loved ones. If one fails to give it before Eid prayer, then the payment is Sadaqah and the reward for it is lesser.

Zakat al-Fitr is mandatory for every adult Muslim with wealth beyond their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. Typically, the head of the household gives the payment on behalf of all dependents, including children and elderly parents.

The amount of Zakat al-Fitr is typically equivalent to one saa (approximately 2.5 kg) of food per person. It can be given in the form of food, such as wheat, barley, dates or raisins. You can also give money equivalent to the value of these food items.

Where to Pay Zakat al-Fitr

At Islamic Relief, your Zakat al-Fitr is connected to thousands of communities around the world, granting families and children the means to enjoy their Eid al-Fitr free from hardship.

By giving your Zakat al-Fitr through Islamic Relief, you can help make a lasting difference in the lives of those in need, on Eid and in the future to come.

All in all, Eid al-Fitr is an important festival in the Islamic calendar that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It celebrates the completion of our month-long spiritual journey during the month of fasting. It is a time of joy and community. When Muslims express gratitude to Allah (SWT) and come together with family and friends.

Regardless of when or where you are celebrating Eid al-Fitr, may the blessed festival be one of happiness, peace and immense blessings for you and your loved ones.

May Allah accept good deeds from us and from you! Eid Mubarak!