Do you remember the sleepless nights in childhood while waiting for Eid? It used to happen twice yearly since we celebrate 2 Eids: Eid Al-Adha and Eid-Al Fitr. These occasions bring happiness with incredible messages of Patience and Humanity. They are celebrated on different days, but they also share some Eid similarities. Here, we will talk about Eid similarities.

We will start this blog post by introducing both Eids and discussing their similarities and differences. Wait! There is one more point to be addressed, the same as you are thinking—questions you often ask us! So, let us start with the introduction of both Eids.

Eid Al-Fitr

This occasion occurs on the 1st Shawal, at the end of Ramadan. You also know this Eid as "Sweet Eid." This occasion is a reward from Allah Almighty against the fast when you abide by eating and drinking during Holy Ramadan. The Holy Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) celebrated Eid for the first time in history in 624 AD.

Eid Al-Adha

Let us briefly discuss the other: The Feast of Sacrifice, Eid Al Adha. The Muslim community commemorates this day on the 10th of Zill Hajj in remembrance of Hazrat Ibraheem and Hazrat Ismail due to their sacrifice and deep love for Allah Almighty. We sacrifice animals like goats, sheep, and camels and distribute meat among family, relatives, and those who are not lucky.

Eid Similarities

The concept of both of these Eids must be clear to you now! We always discussed the difference between occasions. Today, we plan to bring a change and decide to talk about Eid Similarities. Though the history of both festivals differs, their celebrations, donations, messages, and happiness are the same, which we will discuss here!

Eid Celebrations

These festivals do not share the date but celebrations. As Muslims, we start both days with Ghusul (cleaning ourselves) and then go to Eid Prayers. Right after the Namaz, we greet each other and give money to children as "Eidi." Wearing new dresses, we also meet our friends who live nearby.

Donations

Donation is obligatory on both ends. On Sweet Eid, we pay Zakat Al Fitr, and every household is responsible for making this donation on his family's behalf. On the other hand, the form of donations changes and converts into the meat of the animal we sacrifice. Remember, this donation is made to people experiencing poverty or those not lucky enough.

Foods

Move ahead to the other similarity, which is nothing other than food. Though traditional food according to these occasions is not the same, the rest are the same. The traditional dish on Sweet Eids is something sweet like Vermicilies, while meat on the other day. What is a similarity here? Similarity is the tradition of foods, not food.

Message

Remember, every day or event in Islam has a specific message covering the core message of the religion, "humanity." Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha convey the message of sacrifice and tell us about the importance of this deed. Ensuring Quran recitation with translation clearly tells us that humanity is our beautiful religion's core message.

Differences Between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha:

Origin:

• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrates the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting.
• Eid al-Adha: Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son to obey God.

Time of Celebration:

• Eid al-Fitr: Follows Ramadan, occurring on the 1st of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar.
• Eid al-Adha: Roughly ten weeks after Eid al-Fitr, coinciding with the end of the Hajj.

The focus of Celebration:

• Eid al-Fitr: Feasting, family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and prayer.
• Eid al-Adha: Animal sacrifice (Qurbani), sharing meat with the less fortunate, and attending Hajj pilgrimage for those who can.

Charity:

• Eid al-Fitr: Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory charity that provides food to needy people.
• Eid al-Adha: Qurbani meat is shared with family, friends, and impoverished people.

Length of Celebration:

• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated for one to three days.
• Eid al-Adha: A one-day celebration.

Determination of Date:

• Eid al-Fitr: Observed with the sighting of the new crescent moon.
• Eid al-Adha: Held around the 10th to the 13th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Contact Us if you still have any queries regarding the similarities or differences between these sacred Festivals.

Conclusion

Though distinct in origin, Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha share a beautiful thread of unity. From prayers and greetings to charitable giving and celebratory meals, these festivals showcase the Muslim spirit of community and compassion. However, as you celebrate Eid with loved ones, remember the universal message of sacrifice and humanity that binds us all. In addition, we should keep a few differences in mind when celebrating these days.

What is the gap between these Eids?

The first Eid is on the 1st of Shawwal, while the other is on the 10th of Zill Hajj. According to the Islamic calendar, this difference is two months and ten days.

Which Eid is known as Greater Eid?

Eid Al Adha is greater or Bari Eid, while we know Eid Al Fitr as small or Choti Eid.

What are some customary international cuisines for Eid?

Although eating is a standard part of Eid celebrations, regional variations exist in the dishes prepared. For Eid al-Fitr, savory meats are popular, but sweet meals like vermicelli are typical for Eid al-Adha. However, foods like dates, baklava, and biryani are extensively consumed on both Eids.

Is it required to attend the Eid prayers?

While not obligatory, Eid prayers are strongly recommended. Muslims gather in sizable groups to show appreciation and commemorate the holiday.