Eid Al Fitr begins celebrating love, faith and tradition

TDT | Manama                                                

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com    

Reported by Julia Cassano

As Eid-al-Fitr - the Festival of Breaking the Fast - kicks off, signaling the end of Ramadan, the time has also come forth for Bahrainis and over 2 billion Muslims around the world to immerse themselves in the joy of love, faith, brotherhood, and harmony.

This occasion holds a special place in Bahrain as it combines centuries-old traditions with modern festivities here on this Island nation. Believed to have been established by the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the three days of festivities are a time for families and friends to gather to exchange greetings, share meals, and exchange gifts.

According to Islamic traditions, it was during the month of Ramadan that the first revelation was received by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and this month is considered to be the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar.

The first day of Eid is typically the most significant and is marked by special prayers, which are held in mosques or open-air locations, followed by a day of feasting and socializing with family and friends. It is a time for forgiveness, generosity, and charitable acts.

The second and third days of Eid are also observed with much fervour and are spent in visiting friends and family, sharing meals, and exchanging gifts. For Bahrainis, the significance of Eid lies not only in its religious importance but also in its ability to unite the community and foster a sense of brotherhood and goodwill amongst all.

Families in Bahrain told The Daily Tribune that they usually kick-start the festivities by gathering at Al Bait Al Oud (family house) after Eid prayer. Welcoming them will be a specially prepared table filled to the brink with Eid dishes, where some of the popular delicacies include ghoozi, machboos, and baklava.

When asked around, several people also told us that will wake up early to go to their family house or their grandparents’ house to spend quality time with relatives and friends.

“Eid is an exceptional occasion when families can come together to celebrate our cultures, and traditions, and enjoy the food prepared as well,” several said. Some others mentioned that Eid is also synonymous with gift-giving, with grandparents and parents often spoiling their children and grandchildren with presents during the celebrations.

During Eid festivities, families will visit at least up to five family homes and bring everyone together for a sumptuous lunch. Interestingly, a few individuals also shared that it is a customary practice for them to take a nap after lunch to energize themselves for the late-night festivities.

According to them, Eid is a time filled with festivities and celebrations. “So, it is very common for families to take a nap and relax in the afternoon, before the night festivities.”

The younger generation is inclined to enjoy a night out with their peers at cafes and restaurants, while the elders spend time in the family house. While there are numerous ways to commemorate Eid, being with their loved ones is the most cherished and significant for many.