What is Ramadan & Eid?

     During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world observe a joyous three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking).

     Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month which follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It is a time to give in charity to those in need, and celebrate with family and friends the completion of a month of blessings and joy.

Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor. This donation is of actual food -- rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. -- to ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).

     On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.

     After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various family and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes for the holiday. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, the entire 3-day period is an official government/school holiday.

     This year Russ and I visited several malls to experience many of the Eid celebrations.  The first night of Eid we traveled to the Al Wahda mall with another teacher, Khatija.  We were able to get henna designs on our hands which was lots of fun. The henna is a thick paste which dries in a few minutes.  I left it on over night and washed it the next morning.  Khatija said that Muslims do henna after their evenings prayers and then leave it on overnight until they wash for their morning prayers.  The longer it is left on the skin, the darker the design. This is the closest I will ever come to getting a tattoo.  We were also able to try fresh dates.  They were not quite ripe so I found them to be too bitter.  There was an emirate with a falcon for pictures.  Falconry is a popular hobby her in the UAE.  We were also able to watch some traditional dancing.  Khatija bought some of the traditional sweets which we sampled.  They are super sweet mostly sugar.  I have to say I prefer chocolate!

Mall decorated for Eid

Henna Information Sign

Close up for old eyes like mine.

Khatija picking out dates

Henna design on my hand.

She is so fast!  The bag is like a small icing bag with a tiny hole .

My henna design after a day of running errands.  I forgot to take a picture right away.

Emirati with Falcon.