Celebrate Eid, but don’t forget others

The month of Ramadan of the Islamic calendar is reaching to an end and the Muslims all over the world are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr that marks the start of the month of Shawwal. The month of Ramadan ends, after a confirmed sighting of the new moon. There are traditions incorporated into the celebrations, but for many it is a time for holiness and spirituality, focusing on mind, body and soul. It’s an opportunity to reflect on achievements and paying it forward by demonstrating gratitude and extending a helping hand to others who are in need. Eid ul-Fitr is about striving to become a better person, as we celebrate this day as a mark of thanks giving on having spent a month of fasting- a God consciousness. The sea of worshippers at the Eidgah, the sounds of Takbeer, Tahmeed and Tahleel (words of praises to God) reverberate across the globe. The bonding between complete strangers, when they greet one another on Eid day enlivens one’s soul and adds more to the spirituality of this day. Getting ready for the prayers, dressing up in new clothes, visiting the Eidgah and offering prayers in congregation with family and friends, giving Sadqe-fitr (A charitable donation) before Eid prayers to the poor and needy, are the principal teachings. However the present uncertainty has make this day less festive, as the strict curbs were put in place to curb the spread of the virus, by banning or limiting social gatherings in mosques and shrines.
The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasizes peace. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) warned his followers against indulging in violence or verbal abuse. A report in Sahih Bukhari quotes him as saying that whosoever does not give up evil speech and deeds, Allah (SWT) is not in need of his abstinence from food and drink. During Eid-ul-Fitr, the community also loves to showcase some fantastic, often colorful, clothing to the kids of relatives and neighbors who have nothing to spend on their children. The significance of this day is purely spiritual which brings rejoicing and happiness. However, the rejoicing is not at the departure of the day of Eid rather it is the happiness which man feels after successfully completing an important task of Fasting and Sadqe-fitr (A charitable donation).Valley is in turbulent times and life remained crippled, as we have families who have no care taker, except Allah SWT who are suffering from the pangs of thirst and hunger. Houses burnt, eyes injured, cop is battling his life, and the pandemic crises, so we have dozens of families famished and everywhere the atmosphere of pall and gloom. However, this gracious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr provides a platinum opportunity to overcome this miserable situation. The message of Eid-ul-Fitr is love peace and harmony. There are two main messages enshrined in the philosophy of Eid-ul-Fitr. Worship of Allah (SWT), and the realization of the pains and sorrows of other human beings. Eid an occasion of celebration and happiness, not a formal custom, but an auspicious day and a divine gift from Almighty Allah (SWT) for the people at large. Forget the differences, forge unity and jointly celebrate this Eid with religious fervour especially with those who have suffered most. The joy is too scared with others and when joy is shared with others it doubles. Kashmir Horizon extends its esteemed readers a hearty Eid Mubarak. May Allah (SWT) enable us to understand the true philosophy and sprit of Eid-ul-fitr – Aameen