Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion marking the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, worship, and spiritual growth. It is a time for gratitude, celebration, and acts of worship that extend the blessings of Ramadan. Below is a concise guide to the key aspects of Eid, including Sadaqatul Fitr, the Sunnahs of Eid, and the six fasts of Shawwal.
1. Sadaqatul Fitr: Purification and Charity
Sadaqatul Fitr, also known as Zakat al-Fitr or Fitrana, is an obligatory charity given before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It serves two main purposes:
- Purification of Fasting: It compensates for any shortcomings in our fasting during Ramadan.
- Helping the Poor: It ensures that the needy can also enjoy Eid by providing them with food and essentials.
Key Rulings:
- Who Must Pay? Every Muslim who possesses the Nisab (minimum wealth threshold) must pay for themselves and their dependents, including children.
- When to Pay? It should be paid before the Eid prayer. If delayed, it is considered general charity (Sadaqah).
- Amount: The amount is based on staple foods like wheat, barley, or dates. For example, 1.75 kg of wheat or its monetary equivalent (approx. £5/$6.50 in 2024).
- Recipients: It should be given to the poor, needy, debtors, or travelers.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The fast remains suspended between Heaven and Earth until the Sadaqatul Fitr is paid.”
(Sunan Abu Dawood, 1609)
2. Sunnahs of Eid Day
To celebrate Eid in the best way, follow these Sunnahs:
- Perform Ghusl (Bath): Cleanliness is emphasized on Eid.
- Wear Clean, Modest Clothes: Dress well and apply perfume (for men).
- Eat Dates Before Eid Salah (Eid ul-Fitr): Eat an odd number of dates before going to the prayer.
- Recite Takbeerat: On the way to the mosque, recite:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Laa Ilaaha Illa-Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa Lillahi al-Hamd.” - Take Different Routes: Go to the mosque by one route and return by another.
- Greet Others: Say “Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept from us and from you).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Indeed, every nation has its festival, and this is our festival.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 952)
3. How to Perform Eid Salah
Eid Salah consists of 2 Rak’ahs with extra Takbeers. Here’s a simple guide:
1. First Rak’ah:
- Make the intention for Eid Salah.
- Say Takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and recite Thana quietly.
- Perform three additional Takbeers (raise hands, lower after the first two, and fold after the third).
2. Second Rak’ah:
- Recite Surah Al-Fatiha and another Surah.
- Perform three Takbeers before Ruku (raise hands, do not fold after the third).
- Complete the Salah with Tashahhud and Tasleem.
Note: The Eid Khutbah (sermon) is delivered after the Salah. It is recommended to listen attentively.
4. The Six Fasts of Shawwal
After Eid, Muslims are encouraged to fast six days in Shawwal. These fasts carry immense rewards:
- Reward of a Full Year: Fasting Ramadan and six days of Shawwal is equivalent to fasting an entire year.
- Compensation for Shortcomings: They make up for any deficiencies in Ramadan fasting.
- Maintaining Discipline: They help retain the spiritual habits developed during Ramadan.
Key Rulings:
- Timing: The fasts can be observed consecutively or separately within Shawwal.
- Intention: Separate intentions should be made for missed Ramadan fasts (Qadha) and Shawwal fasts.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he has fasted the entire year.”
(Sahih Muslim, 1164)
5. Final Action Plan for Eid and Beyond
- Pay Sadaqatul Fitr: Calculate and pay it before Eid Salah.
- Follow Eid Sunnahs: Perform Ghusl, wear clean clothes, eat dates, and recite Takbeerat.
- Perform Eid Salah: Attend the congregation and listen to the Khutbah.
- Fast Six Days in Shawwal: Plan and complete the fasts to earn year-round rewards.
- Spread Joy and Generosity: Celebrate with family, give charity, and maintain good manners.
Conclusion
Eid al-Fitr is a time of gratitude, worship, and celebration. By fulfilling Sadaqatul Fitr, observing the Sunnahs of Eid, and fasting six days in Shawwal, we extend the blessings of Ramadan and strengthen our connection with Allah.
May Allah accept our worship, grant us happiness, and bless us with success in this life and the Hereafter. Ameen.
