Preparation for Eidul Fitr and Sadaqatul Fitr
(Khursheed Alam Dawood Qasmi, India)
The Arrival of Eid:
The last ten days of Ramadan are passing and we are eagerly waiting to celebrate Eidul Fitr as a joyous conclusion to this blessed month. How wonderful it would be, if we firmly decide to celebrate this great occasion in accordance with the Sunnah and guidance of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Aleihi Wa Sallam). That is, we should observe Eid in the manner that our Prophet Muhammad (saws) did and prepare for it accordingly!
The Night of Eid:
As soon as Ramadan ends, the night of Eid begins. The virtue of this night has been mentioned in Hadith. Sayyiduna Abu Umamah (RadhiAllahu Anhu) narrates that those who stay awake on the night of Eid with the intention of seeking reward and engages in worship, their hearts will not die on the Day when hearts will perish. Mujahid (Rahimahullah) states that in terms of virtue, the night of Eidul Fitr is similar to the nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. This night is also called "Laylatul Ja’izah"—the Night of Reward. (Qiyam Ramadan by Muhammad bin Nasr Al-Marwazi, p. 262)
Day of Eidul Fitr:
The Messenger of Allah (saws) said: On the day of Eidul Fitr, angels stand at the paths and call out: "O Muslims! Proceed towards your Merciful Lord, who grants immense goodness and rewards abundantly. O servants of Allah! You were commanded to pray at night, and you fulfilled it. You were commanded to fast during the day and you observed it. You obeyed your Lord, so now come and receive your rewards." Then, when the people complete their Eid Salaah, a caller announces: "Your Lord has forgiven you. Return to your homes with guidance. Today is the 'Day of Reward' (Yawmul Ja’izah)." (Al-Targhib Wa Al-Tarhib by Al-Mundhiri, Hadith: 1659)
Sunnahs and Recommended Acts on the Day of Eid:
To make the most of this blessed occasion, it is recommended to observe the following acts and etiquettes on Eid day:
Perform Ghusl (ritual