Muslims of Ukraine celebrate Eid al-Fitr

28.07.2014, 12:55

Today Muslims in Ukraine celebrate one of the most joyous days in the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Fitr, a celebration that marks the end of Ramadan (a holy month of fasting observed by Muslims).

Traditionally, the observance begins with the sighting of the new moon. According to a hadith attributed to Anas ibn Malik, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, the two festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha were instituted by the Prophet after his journey from Mecca to Medinah.

“When the Prophet arrived in Medinah, he found people celebrated two specific days in which they used to entertain themselves with recreation and merriment. He asked them about the nature of these festivities to which they replied that these days were occasions of fun and recreation. At this, the Prophet remarked that the Almighty has fixed two days [of festivity] instead of these for you which are better than these: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

The first Eid al-Fitr was celebrated in 624 CE by the Prophet Muhammad and his companions after the victory of the battle of Jang-e-Badar.

Eid al-Fitr is a day of great merriment and thanksgiving. Muslims celebrate by gathering with friends and family, preparing sweet delicacies, wearing new clothes, giving each other gifts and putting up lights and other decorations in their homes.

“On behalf of the Muslims of Ukraine, let me congratulate you all with the feast of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of fasting. The Ramadan this year seemed to us particularly difficult. Our country and we, her loyal sons are going through the times of hardship. But remember that the Allah Almighty tests those whom He wishes the best. Everyone gets tested in accordance with his faith and the greatest difficulties endured the prophets and messengers of God”, imam Said Ismagilov greeted Muslims of Ukraine on his Facebook page.