http://www.english.hadhramaut.info Significance of Eid-ul-Fitr to Muslims [The Source: www.standardmedia.co.ke/hadhramaut.info - 10/09/2010] Eid-ul-Fitr signifies the end of fasting as Muslims bid farewell to the holy month of Ramadhan. Muslims are not only celebrating the end of fasting, but thanking Allah for the help and strength that he gave them throughout the previous month to help them practice self-control. The festival begins when the new moon is first sighted in the sky, and the celebratory atmosphere is intensified by everyone wearing best or new clothes, and decorating their homes. There are special services out of doors and in mosques, processions through the streets, and of course, a special celebratory meal eaten during daytime, the first daytime meal Muslims will have had in a month. Eid-ul-Fitr is a unique festival. It has no connection with any historical event nor is it related to the changes of seasons or cycles of agriculture. It is not a festival related in any way to worldly affairs. Its significance is purely spiritual. It is the day when Muslims thank God for having given them the will, the strength and the endurance to observe fast and obey his commandment during Ramadhan. This day, in the Muslim world, brings great rejoicing and happiness. The rejoicing is not, however, at the end of the month of Ramadan; it is the happiness which man feels after successfully completing an important task. It is celebrated for three days in a holiday called Eid-ul-Fitr (the feast of fast breaking). Gifts are exchanged between friends and family who gather to pray in congregation. God’s reward The feast of Fitr is God’s reward for those who fast during Ramadhan. In this month, man should try to add to his true knowledge of God, do acts of charity for the needy, and renew his beliefs towards his Lord. It is a celebration of thanks to Allah for giving Muslims the chance and the strength to carry out His commands in the blessed month. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) celebrated Eid and encouraged all Muslims to do so. He urged Muslims to wear good clothes, put on perfume, and go to the mosque to recite the Eid prayer. He also encouraged them to exchange Eid greetings, visit each other, and generally pass the day joyfully. Muslims should also remember the poor by visiting and sending them gifts so they, too, can enjoy the day’s festivities.