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Hi!
Eid Mubarak to those who celebrate🌙
This is the topic of this weeks blog also. It’s Heather this week and as someone who was brought up christian in a christian majority country I decided to find out a bit more about Ramadan, Islam, and Eid.
I have friends who are Muslim and who fast and schools teach a lot wider curriculum now as well as brands talking about these things more so there’s a lot more understanding but there’s still things about Eid that I have no idea about! I decided to google some questions I had and read a little to educate myself on this festival which is celebrated by millions worldwide.
What is Eid Mubarak?
Eid Mubarak is an Arabic term which translates to ‘blessed feast/ festival’ it’s the equivalent of saying ‘merry Christmas’ to someone during Christmas time so I suggest learning this phrase as it can be a friendly interaction between those who celebrate and those who don’t.
Why is the moon used in Islam?
Islam emerged in Arabia where travel was done on the majority at night time due to the temperatures of the deserts. This meant navigation depended on the position of the moon and starts, rather than the sun, so the moon represents the guidance of God on the path through life. The Muslim calendar is also based around the lunar calendar making it slightly shorter than the solar calendar which most people use.
What does fasting do?
Fasting is seen as a way to learn patience and break bad habits. It is also mainly inspired by religious and health benefits depending on where a persons beliefs lie. For a lot of people it makes them feel closer to God and others will focus on benefits such as helping the digestive system and blood sugar levels.
What happens at Eid?
The day usually starts with praters and a big celebratory meal which is usually the main event. In general it seems there is a big focus on friendly and family with time being spent celebrating in big groups.
A quote which I read from Maswood Ahmed, a member of the Muslim Council of Britain, when describing people hugging on the street as part of Eid celebrations says ’If you go out on the street now, strangers, anybody they come across they’ll hug them… The whole idea is that whoever you meet, you try and create a feeling of good will. Any feeling of animosity is put aside, at least for one day!’ I like that!
It’s nice to learn new things and have an insight into how other people live and celebrate. Whether you’re celebrating or not this Eid I hope everyone’s doing well. Let me know any interesting ways you celebrate Eid.
Heather.
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Email: hstewart@visionachievement.uk
Instagram: @HeatherStewart_va
Twitter: @HeatherSt_va
