Before we start, let’s sort out the pronounciation. Thanks to google: Eid is pronounced as ‘eed’ as in the word “feed”. ul is pronounced as ‘ull’ as in the word “pull”. Fitr: the “fit” can be pronounced as a mix English word fit and feet (think back to pronouncing “baby letter” i when you were younger), however the “t” is pronounced as in the word “what” and followed by a “r” pronounced in a standard manner.
Okay, now that we’ve got that out the way, Eid-ul-Fitr is a day that marks the end of the Islamic month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during the hours of daylight.
“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (learn) self-restraint.” Qur’an 2: 183
As the month of Ramadan nears an end for Muslims in South Africa, we look forward to the day of Eid-al-Fitr. However, the holy month is followed by the observation of a three-day celebration by Muslims: Eid-ul-Fitr. Let’s see what it’s all about and how it’s celebrated in South Africa.
What is Eid?
Eid is not a “Muslim Christmas”. It is infact a three-day celebration marking the end of the month of fasting for Muslims. However, in most non-Muslim countries such as our own, it’s only celebrated for one day. (It’s hard enough getting one days leave, imagine trying to get 3 in a row when we’re not even sure when Eid is to begin with! *Inside joke)
*Okay, inside joke explained: Just like the start of the month of Ramadan, the end is also dependent on the moon. Muslims follow the lunar calendar and a new Islamic month begins when the new moon is sighted.
The day is a reward for the month of discipline and reflection on what has passed. Eid signals the end of fasting and the beginning of a new Islamic month, Shawwaal.
When is it?
As just explained, we’re not really sure. But we will always have an idea of it being either one of two days. In South Africa this year, Eid will fall on either June 15th or June 16th.
What do Muslims do on Eid day?
Muslims will spend the month of Ramadan giving charity to the poor, as a show of gratitude to God and to obtain blessings for the fasts that were kept. It is also given so that the less fortunate can celebrate the day of Eid. This is why it needs to be given before the actual day so that it can be distributed beforehand. This charitable amount is calculated based on the price of the local staple food (if the food itself isn’t distributed)
As my muslim girls know, the days before Eid also means trips to the dressmaker to make sure your Eid clothes match your vision, while your go-to eyebrow lady makes sure everyones eyebrows are selfie ready.
On the actual day, Muslims wake up early to shower, dress in their Eid best and make their way to masjids (mosques) to perform their special Eid salaah (prayer). Homes are decorated and tables are spread with sweet treats for any visitors coming to paying their greetings. On the day Muslims greet each other saying “Eid Mubarak”, “Eid Saeed” and other variations, which basically translate to “Blessed Eid” or “Happy Eid”. You might even hear Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum- May God accept (our good deeds) from us and you.
What should you wear?
For ladies Eid looks, it’s all about dressing modestly while still being fashionable and on trend. Layering is this season’s essential styling trick. If you’re not keen on hiding your sleeveless dress under a layer, layer your dress over a great shirt or some knitwear. For the men’s Eid looks, same as always, keep it semi-formal while leaning more towards the formal side of things and you’re good to go. Print and texture are the easiest ways to add interest to any look. Suede-like textures, in both clothing and accessories, add a touch of luxury to a winter
wardrobe especially in deep rich blue tones and black. The addition of a print constrains your look from looking just a little too formal.Take a look at our picks below.
FYI – don’t be surprised when people start speaking about Eid again later in the year. There are actually two Eids each year – one at the end of Ramadaan that we’ve just discussed, and the other (Eid-ul-Adha) at the end of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. Read more here to see the our Eid-Ul-Adha 2018 Fashion Guide
