Eid el-Fitr (the Lesser Bairam), a feast of great significance, always starts on the first day of Shawwaal, the tenth month of the Muslim year after the confirmed sighting of the new moon. This feast commemorates the end the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, one of the greatest observances of Islam, revealed in the Holy Qur'an. On this day, Muslims express true joy for the health, strength and opportunity which God has given them to fulfill their obligation of fasting and performing good deeds during Ramadan. The Eid is a time for thanksgiving, forgiveness, moral victory, unity and peace, with great religious significance. It is celebrated by Muslims worldwide, expressing their thanks to Allah. An ambience filled with love and happiness and a tremendous sense of achievement are felt by all Muslims for having carried out God's command. The Prophet Mohamed said: “Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan out of faith, seeking its reward, shall have all their past sins forgiven.” In South Africa, the new moon is usually sighted in Cape Town and hundreds of Muslims gather every year at Green Point on the last day of Ramadan for the sighting. The Eid is not an official public holiday in South Africa, but it is generally accepted that Muslims will take the first day of the feast off work. The feast is characterised by great hospitality and typically celebrated by gathering early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayers. One is expected to perform the ghusl (a special bath to cleanse oneself) before attending the prayers, which are followed by visiting family and friends to wishing them an ‘Eid Mubarak'. People dress in beautiful new clothes, ranging from Arabic attire such as the hijab and abaya to more modern clothing, and attend family gatherings where gifts are exchanged and sweets, cakes and biscuits presented to visitors as treats. Children are rewarded with money called the eidiya, which is the highlight of the day for the kids. Lunch is generally served in large groups as families and friends gather together to celebrate. Traditional dishes such as mutton biryani, roast leg of lamb and roast chicken with potatoes are some of the delicacies served on this day. Eid el-Fitr in Cape Town is a rather spectacular affair, with some Muslims going as far as painting their houses in a variety of bright colours to express their pride . The most significant difference between the Eid in Johannesburg and the Eid in Cape Town is the fact that prayers in the mosques tend to be longer in Cape Town. Another important difference is the food: instead of biryani and roasts, seafood dishes such as prawns and crayfish are served in Cape Town. Even though the food may differ according to where you are from, biryani, roasts and chicken remain firm favourites in South Africa. On this occasion, Muslims also spare a thought for the less fortunate as true joy can only be felt when it is widely and genuinely shared with many. Therefore, they strive to help the needy and the poor to enjoy the festivities. Indeed, the Eid is more than just a festive and joyous occasion. Feasting aside, Muslims draw closer to Allah and acquire rewards by spending the Eid according to the teachings of the Prophet Mohamed.
