Id al-Fitr - the end of Ramadan (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note

‘Id al-Fitr as a festival to mark the end of Ramadan

• ‘Id al-Fitr is the festival that celebrates the end of Ramadan fasting

• The festival:

  • Takes place on the first day of Shawwal, the month after Ramadan

  • Starts when the first new moon is seen at the end of the lunar month of Ramadan

  • Is a time for joy, thanksgiving and reflection after a month of fasting and spiritual effort

• Muslims celebrate successfully completing Sawm, one of the Five Pillars of Islam

• It is also a time to thank Allah for the strength to fast and for the blessings received during Ramadan

• Muslims celebrate by gathering for communal prayer, spending time with family and giving to charity

• The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is believed to have celebrated the first ‘Id al-Fitr in Madinah

The features of ‘Id al-Fitr

• Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation, is given before the festival prayer by each household

  • This will help poorer people participate in the celebrations

• Special communal prayer is held in large open spaces or mosques, usually in the morning

• The ‘Id sermon (khutbah) reminds Muslims of their duties to Allah and to each other

• Muslims wear their best clothes, often new or freshly cleaned, as a sign of respect and celebration

• Homes are decorated

• Special foods and sweets are prepared and shared among family and friends

• People exchange cards and gifts

• People visit family, neighbours and the graves of loved ones

• The phrase “Eid Mubarak” (“Blessed Eid”) is exchanged as a greeting

• Muslims will take time to give thanks to Allah for everything in their lives and for the blessings they have received during their period of fasting

Religious reasons for observing ‘Id al-Fitr

Origins of ‘Id al-Fitr

• ‘Id al-Fitr was initiated by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) after the first Ramadan fasts were completed in Madinah

  • Muslims follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in holding the same celebration today 

• ‘Id al-Fitr celebrates Muslims’ obedience to Allah’s command to fast in the Qur’an

Purpose of ‘Id al-Fitr

• ‘Id al-Fitr is a time for joy, thanksgiving and reflection after a month of fasting and spiritual effort

• Muslims celebrate successfully completing Sawm, one of the Five Pillars of Islam

• It is also a time to thank Allah for the strength to fast and for the blessings received during Ramadan

• Muslims reflect on the spiritual growth and self-discipline gained during Ramadan

Symbolism of ‘Id al-Fitr

• The festival of ‘Id al-Fitr is a powerful symbol of submission to Allah and unity within the Ummah

• It is a symbol of renewal, forgiveness and spiritual purification

• Zakat al-Fitr symbolises the importance of caring for the poor before celebrating

Social reasons for observing ‘Id al-Fitr

• ‘Id al-Fitr brings families and communities together in celebration

• The festival:

  • Strengthens bonds within the family through shared meals, visiting relatives and spending time together

  • Helps young people connect with their faith and their heritage by participating in the celebrations 

  • Encourages community spirit through shared prayers and community events

• The exchange of good wishes, cards and gifts encourages a spirit of generosity and unity

• The giving of Zakat al-Fitr and sharing of meals ensures that everyone can celebrate, regardless of wealth

• It is a time to forgive others, heal relationships and start afresh, which helps to bring greater peace within families and communities

• ‘Id al-Fitr helps to strengthen the ummah by reminding Muslims of their shared beliefs and responsibilities with all believers worldwide

Different ways ‘Id al-Fitr is observed

• In most Muslim-majority countries, ‘Id al-Fitr is a public holiday, often lasting several days

  • In the UK and other countries, Muslims may request time off work or school to celebrate

• Celebrations begin with the sighting of the new moon, marking the end of Ramadan

  • This can vary by location, meaning that the start of the event may be different for some depending on geographical location

• Some cultures have special foods, clothes and traditions associated with the day

  • These may vary slightly depending on local tradition and culture

• In some regions, large community events and fairs are held

  • These may include large outdoor events, processions or parties hosted by local mosques

• Many Muslims visit cemeteries to remember the dead and offer prayers for family members who have passed away