July 08, 2016
All around the world, Muslims will be ending their fasting after the holy month of Ramadan. In the UK, the 6th July 2016 marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. Eid means ‘celebration’ or ‘festival’ and is one of the most important days in the Muslim calendar.
So what is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and the fourth of the five pillars of Islam.
During this month, Muslims will fast, or abstain from eating and drinking, every day from sunrise to sunset during day light. Ramadan also includes the increased offering of prayers and recitation of the Quran.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most important days in the Muslim calendar. It marks the end of Ramadan and begins when the new moon is seen in the sky!
Eid al-Fitir translates from Arabic as the ‘festival of breaking the fast’, and this religious holiday usually lasts for a number of days.
Eid helps people understand the happiness a person feels after they successfully complete an important task – in this case, the successful task is fasting and praying to show dedication and strength.
Celebrations involve gathering with family and friends to eat and pray, whilst giving thanks for the strength, willpower and endurance Allah gives them during Ramadan. People will wear their best clothes and sometimes exchange gifts and cards too. Most importantly, there will be a special feast, which can last up to 3 days!
World Fast Facts 2016:
– The longest daily fast in the world was in Reykjavik, Iceland – lasting almost 22 hours.
– The shortest daily fast in the world was in Auckland, New Zealand – lasting 11 hours and 16 minutes.
– In the UK, the daily fast lasted 18 hours and 47 minutes.
Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating today!
Love from Emily and The One Day Team x