POLOKWANE – Eid al-Fitr is an Arabic word that translates to “feast or festival” and it is observed by Muslims to mark the end of Ramadan on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar.
It is a day of celebration after the holy month of fasting and it is confirmed only by the sighting of the new moon.
Fatima Lutchman, who has been a Muslim her entire life and is now celebrating 30 years of marriage to her Hindu husband, described Eid as a time to celebrate with family and friends.
“Eid is also a time to remember those who are less fortunate. On this day, I also mourn the death of relatives and friends and see the day as a opportunity to count our blessings as well as give charity to those in need.”
Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and usually lasts for 29 or 30 days.
Before Eid, Muslims embark on a month of dry fasting for the whole day with the moral lesson of teaching empathy and compassion.
Fatima added that each area has its own Ramadan fasting timetable during this month, which identifies when to eat for meals before and after fasting.
“This is a time where everyone, rich and the poor are equal because we don’t eat or drink anything.”
Once the new moon is sighted that day is then called Eid.
Fatima explained that for those in Polokwane, Eid will either be celebrated this Friday or Saturday. This will all depend on where and when the new moon is sighted first.
On Eid, women stay at home preparing a feast while the men go to the mosque for prayer early in the morning.
“It is important to make sure that you ensure your home is tidy, that you wear new clothes, bake and cook as you prepare for Eid to be enjoyed.”
Fatima Lutchman, a Polokwane resident, looks forward to celebrating Eid with her family.
Gifts are exchanged whether its sweets, chocolates, biscuits and the kids receive money in envelopes.
For non-Muslims, you can join the observations by sharing meals or by wishing a Muslim ‘Eid Mubarak’.
“It is greatly appreciated when non-Muslims wish us happy Eid. In my family, I have a Hindu husband, but we respect each other’s religions. We celebrate together as a family, showing love and kindness because that is what family is all about.”
