BIDDING FAREWELL TO RAMADAN AS EID AL-FITR APPROCHES
The End of Ramadan 2025 and the Anticipation of Eid
Ramadan 2025, which began on Saturday, March 1, is now drawing to a close. By this weekend, Muslims around the world will bid farewell to the sacred month, eagerly awaiting the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The official moon sighting for Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, will commence tomorrow night. If the crescent is sighted on Saturday, March 29, Eid will be observed on Sunday, March 30; otherwise, it will fall on Monday, March 31.
In anticipation of the holiday, the Federal Government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays.
The Holy Qur’an (2:184) describes Ramadan as “ayyaaman ma’dudat”—a set number of days—highlighting its temporary nature. The departure of Ramadan reminds believers that fasting is not an end in itself but a means to attain taqwa (God-consciousness). It serves as spiritual training, instilling virtues such as patience, perseverance, honesty, generosity, and devotion, which Muslims are encouraged to uphold beyond the fasting period.
Carrying Ramadan’s Lessons Beyond the Month
Ramadan is more than just a month of fasting; it is a transformative period of spiritual and moral renewal. The self-discipline cultivated during this time should extend into everyday life. Steadfastness, patience, charity, and empathy for the less fortunate should become guiding principles throughout the year.
Moreover, Ramadan emphasizes the power of the spiritual realm, urging Muslims to strengthen their bond with the Almighty. True salvation—both in this world and the Hereafter—lies in unwavering faith, gratitude, and perseverance, even in the face of life’s trials.
Observing the Sunnah on Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is a day of joy, gratitude, and worship, and Muslims are encouraged to observe the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in preparation for the occasion. These include:
- Performing Tahajjud (midnight prayer) as a continuation of Ramadan’s devotion.
- Taking a ritual bath (ghusl) before Fajr prayer and wearing new or clean clothes.
- Using perfume (for men) as a recommended practice.
- Eating a light breakfast, typically dates, before heading to the Eid prayer ground.
- Reciting takbir (praises of Allah) while going to the prayer ground.
Eid prayers are performed in congregation at open fields or mosques, without an Adhan (call to prayer) or Iqamah.
The khutbah (sermon) is an essential part of the prayer, and leaving before it concludes is discouraged. Talking, walking around, or engaging in other distractions during the sermon is also inappropriate.
The Importance of Sadaqat al-Fitr
One of the key obligations before Eid prayer is the giving of Sadaqat al-Fitr, a form of charity meant to purify one’s fast and ensure that the less fortunate can partake in the joy of Eid.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) prescribed that every Muslim in a household—young or old—must contribute. Traditionally, this charity was given in staple foods such as wheat, barley, or rice (equivalent to about three or four seers).
However, in contemporary times, many Islamic scholars have endorsed monetizing Sadaqat al-Fitr to accommodate modern necessities, allowing Muslims to donate an equivalent monetary amount.
Whether given in cash or kind, the core essence of this act is to share the blessings of Eid with those in need, fostering a spirit of compassion and generosity.
Fasting the Six Days of Shawwal
Following Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to observe the six voluntary fasts of Shawwal (Sitta Shawwal). The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if they have fasted for the entire year.” (Muslim)
These fasts need not be consecutive and can be observed at any time during Shawwal. They serve as a continuation of spiritual discipline and an opportunity for additional blessings.
A Final Prayer
As Ramadan comes to an end, we turn to Allah (SWT) in gratitude and supplication:
“O Allah! Allow us to complete Ramadan in a manner that pleases You. Spare us from Your punishment and grant us Paradise as our final abode. Accept our fasting and prayers, forgive our sins, and strengthen our faith beyond Ramadan. Help us remain steadfast on the straight path, grateful for Your blessings, and patient through life’s trials. Ameen!”
