It has been the month of a spiritual rejuvenation and now the time has come to mark the culmination of the holy month of Ramadhan. Eid al Fitr is a joyous occasion that brings Muslims together in prayer, reflection, and communal festivities. This auspicious day holds deep spiritual and cultural importance, embodying values of unity, gratitude, and renewal.
It signifies the completion of a month-long practiced fasting, prayer, and self-discipline by Muslims worldwide. It is the time for spiritual reflection, as believers express gratitude for the strength and guidance received during Ramadhan. It is an opportunity to renew one's commitment to faith and righteousness, carrying forward the lessons learned during the month of fasting. One of the most remarkable aspects of Eid is its ability to foster unity and strengthen community bonds. The collective act of worship transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, symbolising the unity of the Muslims, and their community worldwide. Regardless of differences in language, ethnicity, or social status, everyone comes together to celebrate their shared faith and values.
As far as my experience is concerned, since 2002, during Ramadhan and Eid, as a police civilian officer in the Royal Oman Police has been quite enlightening. The experiences and knowledge gained from my teaching career in the Republic of Maldives has greatly assisted me during this period. During class time in Ramadhan, I, along with my students and colleagues, refrain from eating in order to foster a sense of unity and camaraderie. Then in the evenings, the experience of sharing Iftar meals together, regardless of rank or status, reinforces the belief that before God, we are all equal. These life examples, which promote empathy, cooperation, and compassion which serve as a powerful reminder during the holy month.
The fasting period initially poses a challenge to the students, but as the days pass they become more energetic and actively involve in all the activities with enthusiasm and satisfaction. Participating in Iftar parties and sharing the joy and peace with colleagues and students is a special experience during the month. The universal message of empathy and compassion conveyed during this time is a lesson for all humanity. Therefore, everyone is encouraged to give to those who are in need by providing food, or financial assistance to the less fortunate.
As we know, Zakat al-Fitr is a form of charity given, which ensures that all members of the community should join in the festivities without facing hardships. Therefore, this spirit of generosity and solidarity exemplify the essence of Eid, emphasising on the importance of compassion and empathy towards others.
Moreover, it is a time for exuberant family gatherings and festive celebrations. After the Eid prayer, families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and express love and affection towards one another. I have been to many of my students’ Eid celebrations and during that time traditional dishes are prepared, and special sweets are enjoyed. I would say that beyond the celestial radiance and sacred symbolism, Eid celebrations embody the resplendent beauty of unity in diversity, weaving a magnificent mosaic of cultural vibrancy and spiritual fervor. The most exciting category, as I have noticed, is the children who receive new clothes and gifts which add to the festive atmosphere and create cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Most importantly, this celebration transcends religious boundaries, welcoming people of all backgrounds to join in the festivities. In multicultural societies, Eid serves as an opportunity for interfaith dialogues and cultural exchanges, promoting understanding and harmony among diverse communities. Indeed, by embracing the values of tolerance, respect, and acceptance, let us say that this festival also reflects the universal message of peace and unity. Undoubtedly, we can feel that it is more than just a religious holiday, but a symbol of hope and renewal. As Muslims around the world come together to celebrate this cheerful occasion, they reaffirm their commitment to faith, family, and community.
Therefore, Eid serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and generosity in building a more harmonious and inclusive society. By embracing the spirit of Eid, we can strive towards a world where love, peace, and understanding prevail, transcending differences and fostering a sense of unity among all humanity.
Dr. SAJI UTHUPPAN
Lecturer of English
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