Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is observed by Muslims around the world in commemoration of one of the greatest trials of faith in the life of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham — upon whom be peace). In Muslim and Judeo-Christian traditions, it is related that, as a test of Hazrat Ibrahim’s faith, the Almighty calls upon him to sacrifice his beloved son. At the moment of the sacrificial act, a Merciful intervention spared his son’s life. The Holy Qur’an says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ – thus indeed we reward the righteous… indeed this was a manifest trial…”
— Surah 37, Ayats 104–106
The Qur’an refers to Prophet Ibrahim as a Muslim — one who leads a life of devotion and willing submission to Allah — and confirms that many great prophets were descended from him, including Prophet Musa (Moses — upon whom be peace), Prophet Isa (Jesus — upon whom be peace), as well as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family). The notion that divine guidance is vested in the family of Prophet Ibrahim is firmly established in the Qur’an:
“Allah did choose Adam and Nuh, the family of Ibrahim, and the family of Imran above all people; Offspring, one from the other, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.”
— Surah 3, Ayats 33–34
In Shia tradition and belief, divine guidance, which Allah vested in the descendants of Hazrat Ibrahim, continued in Prophet Muhammad, the last and final Messenger of Allah, after whom, at Divine Command, the authority for guidance devolved upon his cousin and son-in-law Hazrat Ali and vests thereafter in the Imams in the progeny of Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima, the Prophet's daughter.
Through the remembrance of the Prophet of Allah, who is venerated in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, Eid al-Adha also celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the Ahl al-Kitab — the People of the Book. In the words of Mawlana Hazar Imam:
“The shared destiny of the ethos of the Abrahamic tradition that unites Christians, Jews and Muslims is governed by the duty of loving care to help nurture each life that is born to its God-given potential.”
— Mawlana Hazar Imam in Houston, USA, 23 June 2002.
Eid Mubarak!
http://www.theismaili.org/cms/909/Eid-alAdha
EID MUBARAK
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Ismaili insight Midwestern United States • Monday, May 25, 2020
The Ismaili has released a new song in commemoration of Eid ul-Fitr! Listen to "Ya Allah – You are the One" in which the children of the global Jamat express their wishes, and their thanks to Allah for the grace and blessings in our lives.
Ismaili Insight <[email protected]>
The Ismaili has released a new song in commemoration of Eid ul-Fitr! Listen to "Ya Allah – You are the One" in which the children of the global Jamat express their wishes, and their thanks to Allah for the grace and blessings in our lives.
Ismaili Insight <[email protected]>
For Senegal’s Biggest Holiday, a Shortage of the All-Important Sheep
Properly celebrating Tabaski, as Eid al-Adha is known in Senegal, requires a sacrificial sheep. Coronavirus restrictions have made the animals more expensive, putting them out of reach of many.
MISSIRAH, Senegal — The couscous was all ready for the lunchtime crowd in Yassin Dicko’s restaurant near one of the biggest sheep markets in Senegal.
But except for family members, the place was empty. Ms. Dicko’s usual customers, shepherds from Mauritania, had not shown up. She looked outside to the vast holding area where just a few meager herds of sheep trotted around, their bleating oddly human.
While the corrals in Missirah, in central Senegal, are usually packed with sheep at this time of year, hardly any salesmen had shown up. Almost no buyers either.
“This is a real crisis,” she said.
It was 13 days before Tabaski, the Senegalese version of Eid al-Adha, the biggest religious celebration of the year in the country, which is about 95 percent Muslim.
No sheep for the Tabaski feast for a Muslim Senegalese family is like no presents at Christmas for a Christian one, and in the two weeks before the holiday, which takes place this year on July 31, there is usually a shopping rush for the animals.
But monthslong government-imposed measures to contain the coronavirus — borders closed, markets shuttered and travel severely restricted — have been financially devastating for many people in Senegal, putting a purchase of great cultural and social importance beyond the reach of many this year.
More...
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/29/worl ... 778d3e6de3
Properly celebrating Tabaski, as Eid al-Adha is known in Senegal, requires a sacrificial sheep. Coronavirus restrictions have made the animals more expensive, putting them out of reach of many.
MISSIRAH, Senegal — The couscous was all ready for the lunchtime crowd in Yassin Dicko’s restaurant near one of the biggest sheep markets in Senegal.
But except for family members, the place was empty. Ms. Dicko’s usual customers, shepherds from Mauritania, had not shown up. She looked outside to the vast holding area where just a few meager herds of sheep trotted around, their bleating oddly human.
While the corrals in Missirah, in central Senegal, are usually packed with sheep at this time of year, hardly any salesmen had shown up. Almost no buyers either.
“This is a real crisis,” she said.
It was 13 days before Tabaski, the Senegalese version of Eid al-Adha, the biggest religious celebration of the year in the country, which is about 95 percent Muslim.
No sheep for the Tabaski feast for a Muslim Senegalese family is like no presents at Christmas for a Christian one, and in the two weeks before the holiday, which takes place this year on July 31, there is usually a shopping rush for the animals.
But monthslong government-imposed measures to contain the coronavirus — borders closed, markets shuttered and travel severely restricted — have been financially devastating for many people in Senegal, putting a purchase of great cultural and social importance beyond the reach of many this year.
More...
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/29/worl ... 778d3e6de3
Eid Mubarak
Original composition by Zahira Dhalwani in celebration of Eid.
Lyrics, composition, music, vocals and recording: Zahira Dhalwani
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... e=emb_logo
Original composition by Zahira Dhalwani in celebration of Eid.
Lyrics, composition, music, vocals and recording: Zahira Dhalwani
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... e=emb_logo
Canada Post to issue Eid stamp April 22
Canada Post will issue its third stamp in celebration of Eid on April 22.
The new nondenominated permanent-rate stamp (currently 92¢) features a stylized evening scene as viewed through a decorative arched window. A large crescent moon and nine five-point stars appear in the sky above gentle rolling hills in the background.
Canada’s first Eid stamp was issued May 24, 2017 (Scott 2998), and the second was released April 24, 2020 (3239).
The designs of the first and second Eid stamps include Arabic script that reads “Eid Mubarek,” which means “Have a blessed Eid” in translation.
In announcing the new Eid stamp on its website, Canada Post said, “Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) are two of the most important religious holidays in Islam. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid al-Adha commemorates the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca — the holiest site in Islam.”
The Kaaba, which stands at the center of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is the most sacred site in Islam.
Eid al-Adha pays tribute to the determination of Abraham to sacrifice his son as God had instructed him. Abraham’s willingness to offer his son’s life demonstrated his obedience to God.
“Both festivals embody core Islamic values. They also focus on charitable works, including helping others and sharing with the less fortunate. More than one million Muslims in Canada celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha,” Canada Post said.
The crescent moon is a powerful symbol of the Islamic faith. Both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha begin when the new moon is seen, according to Canada Post.
This year Eid al-Fitr will commence on the evening of May 12 and conclude on the evening of May 13. Eid al-Adha will begin on the evening of July 19 and end on the evening of July 23.
Lionel Gadoury, Andrew Conlon and Brad Pyn of Context Creative, a design firm based in Toronto, Ontario, designed the new Eid stamp. The stamp measures 28 millimeters by 38mm. It was printed by Lowe-Martin in booklets of 10 (product no. 414165111) using seven-color lithography. A total of 1.2 million stamps (120,000 booklets of 10) were produced.
Canada Post also is offering an official first-day cover (product no. 414165131) with 7,000 FDCs serviced in Montreal, Quebec.
Canada Post stamps and related items are available online. Stamps and FDCs are available by mail order from Canada Post Customer Service, Box 90022, 2701 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON K1V 1J8 Canada; or by telephone from the United States or Canada at 800-565-4362, and from other countries at 902-863-6550.
They also are available from many new-issue stamp dealers, and from Canada Post’s agent in the United States: Interpost, Box 400, Hewlett, NY 11557.
https://www.linns.com/news/world-stamps ... p-april-22
Canada Post will issue its third stamp in celebration of Eid on April 22.
The new nondenominated permanent-rate stamp (currently 92¢) features a stylized evening scene as viewed through a decorative arched window. A large crescent moon and nine five-point stars appear in the sky above gentle rolling hills in the background.
Canada’s first Eid stamp was issued May 24, 2017 (Scott 2998), and the second was released April 24, 2020 (3239).
The designs of the first and second Eid stamps include Arabic script that reads “Eid Mubarek,” which means “Have a blessed Eid” in translation.
In announcing the new Eid stamp on its website, Canada Post said, “Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) are two of the most important religious holidays in Islam. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid al-Adha commemorates the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca — the holiest site in Islam.”
The Kaaba, which stands at the center of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is the most sacred site in Islam.
Eid al-Adha pays tribute to the determination of Abraham to sacrifice his son as God had instructed him. Abraham’s willingness to offer his son’s life demonstrated his obedience to God.
“Both festivals embody core Islamic values. They also focus on charitable works, including helping others and sharing with the less fortunate. More than one million Muslims in Canada celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha,” Canada Post said.
The crescent moon is a powerful symbol of the Islamic faith. Both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha begin when the new moon is seen, according to Canada Post.
This year Eid al-Fitr will commence on the evening of May 12 and conclude on the evening of May 13. Eid al-Adha will begin on the evening of July 19 and end on the evening of July 23.
Lionel Gadoury, Andrew Conlon and Brad Pyn of Context Creative, a design firm based in Toronto, Ontario, designed the new Eid stamp. The stamp measures 28 millimeters by 38mm. It was printed by Lowe-Martin in booklets of 10 (product no. 414165111) using seven-color lithography. A total of 1.2 million stamps (120,000 booklets of 10) were produced.
Canada Post also is offering an official first-day cover (product no. 414165131) with 7,000 FDCs serviced in Montreal, Quebec.
Canada Post stamps and related items are available online. Stamps and FDCs are available by mail order from Canada Post Customer Service, Box 90022, 2701 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON K1V 1J8 Canada; or by telephone from the United States or Canada at 800-565-4362, and from other countries at 902-863-6550.
They also are available from many new-issue stamp dealers, and from Canada Post’s agent in the United States: Interpost, Box 400, Hewlett, NY 11557.
https://www.linns.com/news/world-stamps ... p-april-22
The state of Texas on Eid al-Fitr
***BREAKING NEWS FOR MUSLIMS TEXANS***
The state of Texas just passed a bill in its 8th Legislature, and it reads as follows:
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
TXHB 1231| 2021-2022 | 87th Legislature.
A BILL TO BE ENTERED AS AN ACT
relating to the designation of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as optional holidays.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION1. Sections 662.003 (3), Government Code, is amended to read as follows;
(c) An “Optional holiday” included only the days on which Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adah, or Good Friday falls.
Section 2. This act takes effect on September 1, 2021.
Thanks to our friend Mr. Amir Rupani who made this possible. Mr. Rupani is one of the most influential Muslims in Texas.
Mahatma Gandhi had said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”. Yes, it is always good to be a part of society to bring change. Mr. Rupani sets that example; he is a Republican and has been a friend of George Bush, Rick Perry, and Greg Abbot and has had accomplished several proclamations and declarations.
Thanks to Gov. Abbot, Texas Legislature, and Mr. Rupani.
Dr. Mike Ghouse is a public speaker, thinker, and author, and interfaith wedding officiant. He is the founder of the Center for Pluralism and offers pluralistic solutions on issues of the day to the media and the policymakers. His book American Muslim Agenda is available on Amazon. The second edition is coming with a new title American Muslim by July 4th with added chapters.
***BREAKING NEWS FOR MUSLIMS TEXANS***
The state of Texas just passed a bill in its 8th Legislature, and it reads as follows:
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
TXHB 1231| 2021-2022 | 87th Legislature.
A BILL TO BE ENTERED AS AN ACT
relating to the designation of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as optional holidays.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION1. Sections 662.003 (3), Government Code, is amended to read as follows;
(c) An “Optional holiday” included only the days on which Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adah, or Good Friday falls.
Section 2. This act takes effect on September 1, 2021.
Thanks to our friend Mr. Amir Rupani who made this possible. Mr. Rupani is one of the most influential Muslims in Texas.
Mahatma Gandhi had said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”. Yes, it is always good to be a part of society to bring change. Mr. Rupani sets that example; he is a Republican and has been a friend of George Bush, Rick Perry, and Greg Abbot and has had accomplished several proclamations and declarations.
Thanks to Gov. Abbot, Texas Legislature, and Mr. Rupani.
Dr. Mike Ghouse is a public speaker, thinker, and author, and interfaith wedding officiant. He is the founder of the Center for Pluralism and offers pluralistic solutions on issues of the day to the media and the policymakers. His book American Muslim Agenda is available on Amazon. The second edition is coming with a new title American Muslim by July 4th with added chapters.
The Eid Mubarak Song | Mira, Royal Detective |
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVrTe2glFKg
It's the Eid al-Fitr holiday and Sadia teaches Mira, Mikku and Chikku what the holiday is all about!
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVrTe2glFKg
It's the Eid al-Fitr holiday and Sadia teaches Mira, Mikku and Chikku what the holiday is all about!
Chand Raat of Shawwal, Eid al-Fitr, 12th May 2021
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 12, 2021
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
The term Eid al-Fitr means “the feast of breaking the fast“. The phrase is composed of two words: Eid meaning a recurring festivity; and Fitr meaning to break, referring to the breaking of the cycle of fasting, seeking piety, spiritual fulfillment and forgiveness. It is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide since the time of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), marking the end of the month of Ramadan and it marks an occasion on which we thank Allah for His gift of the Holy Qur’an, for all His mercy and benevolence bestowed upon us. Fasting reinforces the virtues of patience and self-discipline, as well as offering an opportunity to express our gratitude to God by sharing our extra resources with those in need.
The notions of sharing and generosity are amongst the central ethical principles of Islam, and part of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Hazrat ‘Ali and our Imams (a.s). According to a tradition, once a poor Bedouin asked the Prophet, how he could help? The Prophet advised him to carry water on his camel for those who did not have daily access to it. In another hadith narrated by al-Bukhari, the Prophet invoked blessings for a woman who had cared for a stray dog. When she saw a thirsty dog, she took off her sock and tied it to her veil to draw some water from the well. For her generosity and kindness, the Prophet prayed for her.
Source: Salim- Sulaiman (YouTube)
Jazaak Allah | Javed Ali, Salim Sulaiman | Irfan Siddiqui | Merchant Records | Eid 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxqbPX_yBd8
Thus, acts of kindness, generosity and sharing, no matter how small, are important expressions of the social conscience in Islam. As Allah has mentioned in the Holy Qur’an in Sura al-Baqara, 177:
Righteousness is not in turning one’s face to the East or the West. Rather, in the eyes of Allah, righteous are those who believe in Allah and give of what they have out of the love of Allah to those in need.
In Islam, the expression of piety has two aspects: (a) prayer and other acts of devotion on the one hand, and (b) manifestations of social responsibility and generosity on the other. These two expressions are not independent; rather, they are two intertwined dimensions of faith.
God expects the believers to bear the responsibilities of creating an enabling environment and to make meaningful contributions to the improvement of the quality of life of people in their communities.
With Muslims living in different countries, having distinctive cultures and diverse traditions, celebration of Eid incorporates local customs and traditions. Generally, Eid al-Fitr commences with special recitation of congregational prayers, in which we thank God for His bounties and mercies.
In the morning of Eid al-Fitr, families, friends and community congregate for Eid prayers in which according to tradition, verses are recited from the Holy Qur’an. Two Surahs are recited in each Rak’at, the first of which is always Surah al-Fatiha and the second Surah we recite is Surah al-Ikhlas; this is followed by Du’a i Qunut which forms the major portion of the Eid Namaz as it is recited five times in the first Rak’at and four times in the second Rak’at.
Meaning of Du’a i Qunut: ‘O Our Lord! In thy Mercy give unto us in this world that which is good and, in the hereafter too, that which is good, and guard us from the chastisement of Hell. O merciful of all Merciful, O Lord, I am helpless so help me – I seek from You blessings of this day of Eid which You have made for Muslims. There is no deity except Allah, the Forbearing, the Bounteous. There is no deity except Allah the Exalted, Magnificent. Glory be to Allah, the Lord of the seven Heavens and the Lord of seven earths and what is within them and what is between them and Who is the Lord of the glorious Throne. And all praise is due to Allah, the Sustainer of all beings.
Eid prayer continues with: “O Lord, have mercy on Muhammad (pbuh) and his progeny.” “God hears one who praises Him.” “God is Great!” “We turn to Allah in repentance and beseech Him for forgiveness.” “With the help of Allah and His strength, I rise and sit.” At the completion of Eid Namaz, we recite Tashahhud which concludes by prayer of peace (salaam). This is followed by celebration and rejoicing throughout the day with expressions of affection towards friends, gathering of families and exchange of greetings and gifts.
In the Muslim tradition, Eid is both a personal and a social festivity. It is a time to maintain the practice of prayer and self-restraint to enhance taqwa, that is God-consciousness, in our lives. In Nahj al-Balagha, Imam ‘Ali (a.s) says:
Every day in which one does not commit a sin is [a day of] Eid.
Picture source: Ismaili Civic (Facebook) Click link to read: Calgary food bank gets 2,359 kg donation from Ismaili community to mark Ramadan | CBC News
Amidst all this celebration, this is also a time for us to be grateful to God, to forgive and forget any wrongs that have been committed against us, a time to remember the less fortunate, and to extend compassion and kindness, support, and generosity to others. This obliges us to be thoughtful, responsive to the needs of our families, our communities, our neighborhoods, our nation, and all mankind. Faith is not simply a set of beliefs held as philosophical ideals. Rather, it is a commitment that must be reflected in our lives and guide us to engage with the world around us. The Holy Qur’an repeatedly reminds us that we have a responsibility to those that are less privileged than us, and assures us of the many rewards for generosity and charity:
“For those who give in charity, men and women, and loan to Allah a beautiful loan, it shall be increased manifold, and they shall have a liberal reward.” 57:18
“The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah’s way is as the likeness of a grain which grows seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.” 2:261
It is important to note that in the verses referenced above, the act of generosity towards fellow human beings is elevated to the level of “spending in God’s way” and as a “Good Loan” – or qarz-e hasanah – to God.
During the Fatimid period of Islamic history, it was customary for the Imam-Caliphs to address assemblies after the Eid Namaz. In his Eid al-Fitr khutba, our 12th Ismaili Imam, Mawlana al-Qa’im (a.s), referred to the assembly of believers before him as ‘Servants of God’. The Imam reminded them that Eid was a festival which Allah honors, and he counselled the servants of God to be faithful in their intentions, to submit their supplications to God and to seek forgiveness for their errors and mistakes.
In the year 948 CE, the Fatimid Caliph, 13th Ismaili Imam Mawlana al-Mansur (a.s), delivered a khutba on the day of Eid in the city of al-Mahdiyya, in which he said:
“Indeed, most truly, did God, the Mighty and the Glorious, make this day of yours a feast of greater importance than other days. He seals with it a month more excellent than other months.”
Mawlana Imam al-Mansur (a.s), also chose the Eid al-Fitr khutba as an occasion to reaffirm his submission to Allah. The Imam expressed his overwhelming gratitude to Allah, saying:
“Praise! Praise! And thanks to You! Thanks! Over and over again. There is no equivalent for Your favors; no repayment for Your kindnesses, confessing thus to the inability to express thanks even though it were to be attempted in every language throughout the whole of time.”
As we rejoice on this auspicious day of Eid al-Fitr, let us offer our thanksgiving for the blessing of the Almighty Allah and on this occasion let us become a catalyst for us to reflect on values and actively find ways to put our values into action, including through the work of Imamat institutions. (akdn.org)
As we celebrate Eid al-Fitr, let us take this day as an opportunity, as trustees of God’s creation, to realize the social conscience of Islam; fortify our commitment to the ethics of giving hope where hope is needed, to be kind where kindness is needed; and to bring alive the spirit of generosity by sharing the abundance that God has bestowed upon each one of us.
Video Source: Salim-Sulaiman (YouTube)
Maalik Mere | Official Video | Salim Sulaiman | Team 07 | Raj Pandit | Vipul Mehta | Salman Ali
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXQKChk2S2w
Let us pray:
O’Lord, help us to live our lives in keeping with your guidance to be compassionate and generous towards our Muslim brothers and sisters, and to humanity as a whole.
O’Lord, fill our hearts with your love and gratitude for your favors. Ameen!
Recommended reading: https://ismailimail.blog/?s=shawwal+2020
Eid al-Fitr Mubarak!
https://ismailimail.blog/2021/05/12/cha ... -may-2021/
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 12, 2021
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
The term Eid al-Fitr means “the feast of breaking the fast“. The phrase is composed of two words: Eid meaning a recurring festivity; and Fitr meaning to break, referring to the breaking of the cycle of fasting, seeking piety, spiritual fulfillment and forgiveness. It is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide since the time of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), marking the end of the month of Ramadan and it marks an occasion on which we thank Allah for His gift of the Holy Qur’an, for all His mercy and benevolence bestowed upon us. Fasting reinforces the virtues of patience and self-discipline, as well as offering an opportunity to express our gratitude to God by sharing our extra resources with those in need.
The notions of sharing and generosity are amongst the central ethical principles of Islam, and part of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Hazrat ‘Ali and our Imams (a.s). According to a tradition, once a poor Bedouin asked the Prophet, how he could help? The Prophet advised him to carry water on his camel for those who did not have daily access to it. In another hadith narrated by al-Bukhari, the Prophet invoked blessings for a woman who had cared for a stray dog. When she saw a thirsty dog, she took off her sock and tied it to her veil to draw some water from the well. For her generosity and kindness, the Prophet prayed for her.
Source: Salim- Sulaiman (YouTube)
Jazaak Allah | Javed Ali, Salim Sulaiman | Irfan Siddiqui | Merchant Records | Eid 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxqbPX_yBd8
Thus, acts of kindness, generosity and sharing, no matter how small, are important expressions of the social conscience in Islam. As Allah has mentioned in the Holy Qur’an in Sura al-Baqara, 177:
Righteousness is not in turning one’s face to the East or the West. Rather, in the eyes of Allah, righteous are those who believe in Allah and give of what they have out of the love of Allah to those in need.
In Islam, the expression of piety has two aspects: (a) prayer and other acts of devotion on the one hand, and (b) manifestations of social responsibility and generosity on the other. These two expressions are not independent; rather, they are two intertwined dimensions of faith.
God expects the believers to bear the responsibilities of creating an enabling environment and to make meaningful contributions to the improvement of the quality of life of people in their communities.
With Muslims living in different countries, having distinctive cultures and diverse traditions, celebration of Eid incorporates local customs and traditions. Generally, Eid al-Fitr commences with special recitation of congregational prayers, in which we thank God for His bounties and mercies.
In the morning of Eid al-Fitr, families, friends and community congregate for Eid prayers in which according to tradition, verses are recited from the Holy Qur’an. Two Surahs are recited in each Rak’at, the first of which is always Surah al-Fatiha and the second Surah we recite is Surah al-Ikhlas; this is followed by Du’a i Qunut which forms the major portion of the Eid Namaz as it is recited five times in the first Rak’at and four times in the second Rak’at.
Meaning of Du’a i Qunut: ‘O Our Lord! In thy Mercy give unto us in this world that which is good and, in the hereafter too, that which is good, and guard us from the chastisement of Hell. O merciful of all Merciful, O Lord, I am helpless so help me – I seek from You blessings of this day of Eid which You have made for Muslims. There is no deity except Allah, the Forbearing, the Bounteous. There is no deity except Allah the Exalted, Magnificent. Glory be to Allah, the Lord of the seven Heavens and the Lord of seven earths and what is within them and what is between them and Who is the Lord of the glorious Throne. And all praise is due to Allah, the Sustainer of all beings.
Eid prayer continues with: “O Lord, have mercy on Muhammad (pbuh) and his progeny.” “God hears one who praises Him.” “God is Great!” “We turn to Allah in repentance and beseech Him for forgiveness.” “With the help of Allah and His strength, I rise and sit.” At the completion of Eid Namaz, we recite Tashahhud which concludes by prayer of peace (salaam). This is followed by celebration and rejoicing throughout the day with expressions of affection towards friends, gathering of families and exchange of greetings and gifts.
In the Muslim tradition, Eid is both a personal and a social festivity. It is a time to maintain the practice of prayer and self-restraint to enhance taqwa, that is God-consciousness, in our lives. In Nahj al-Balagha, Imam ‘Ali (a.s) says:
Every day in which one does not commit a sin is [a day of] Eid.
Picture source: Ismaili Civic (Facebook) Click link to read: Calgary food bank gets 2,359 kg donation from Ismaili community to mark Ramadan | CBC News
Amidst all this celebration, this is also a time for us to be grateful to God, to forgive and forget any wrongs that have been committed against us, a time to remember the less fortunate, and to extend compassion and kindness, support, and generosity to others. This obliges us to be thoughtful, responsive to the needs of our families, our communities, our neighborhoods, our nation, and all mankind. Faith is not simply a set of beliefs held as philosophical ideals. Rather, it is a commitment that must be reflected in our lives and guide us to engage with the world around us. The Holy Qur’an repeatedly reminds us that we have a responsibility to those that are less privileged than us, and assures us of the many rewards for generosity and charity:
“For those who give in charity, men and women, and loan to Allah a beautiful loan, it shall be increased manifold, and they shall have a liberal reward.” 57:18
“The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah’s way is as the likeness of a grain which grows seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.” 2:261
It is important to note that in the verses referenced above, the act of generosity towards fellow human beings is elevated to the level of “spending in God’s way” and as a “Good Loan” – or qarz-e hasanah – to God.
During the Fatimid period of Islamic history, it was customary for the Imam-Caliphs to address assemblies after the Eid Namaz. In his Eid al-Fitr khutba, our 12th Ismaili Imam, Mawlana al-Qa’im (a.s), referred to the assembly of believers before him as ‘Servants of God’. The Imam reminded them that Eid was a festival which Allah honors, and he counselled the servants of God to be faithful in their intentions, to submit their supplications to God and to seek forgiveness for their errors and mistakes.
In the year 948 CE, the Fatimid Caliph, 13th Ismaili Imam Mawlana al-Mansur (a.s), delivered a khutba on the day of Eid in the city of al-Mahdiyya, in which he said:
“Indeed, most truly, did God, the Mighty and the Glorious, make this day of yours a feast of greater importance than other days. He seals with it a month more excellent than other months.”
Mawlana Imam al-Mansur (a.s), also chose the Eid al-Fitr khutba as an occasion to reaffirm his submission to Allah. The Imam expressed his overwhelming gratitude to Allah, saying:
“Praise! Praise! And thanks to You! Thanks! Over and over again. There is no equivalent for Your favors; no repayment for Your kindnesses, confessing thus to the inability to express thanks even though it were to be attempted in every language throughout the whole of time.”
As we rejoice on this auspicious day of Eid al-Fitr, let us offer our thanksgiving for the blessing of the Almighty Allah and on this occasion let us become a catalyst for us to reflect on values and actively find ways to put our values into action, including through the work of Imamat institutions. (akdn.org)
As we celebrate Eid al-Fitr, let us take this day as an opportunity, as trustees of God’s creation, to realize the social conscience of Islam; fortify our commitment to the ethics of giving hope where hope is needed, to be kind where kindness is needed; and to bring alive the spirit of generosity by sharing the abundance that God has bestowed upon each one of us.
Video Source: Salim-Sulaiman (YouTube)
Maalik Mere | Official Video | Salim Sulaiman | Team 07 | Raj Pandit | Vipul Mehta | Salman Ali
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXQKChk2S2w
Let us pray:
O’Lord, help us to live our lives in keeping with your guidance to be compassionate and generous towards our Muslim brothers and sisters, and to humanity as a whole.
O’Lord, fill our hearts with your love and gratitude for your favors. Ameen!
Recommended reading: https://ismailimail.blog/?s=shawwal+2020
Eid al-Fitr Mubarak!
https://ismailimail.blog/2021/05/12/cha ... -may-2021/
Fatimid Imam al-Mu’izz led Id al-Fitr prayers in Cairo
Posted by Nimira Dewji
Named after the Prophet’s daughter, the Fatimids, Mawlana Hazar Imam’s ancestors, established their empire in 909 in North Africa when Imam al-Mahdi was proclaimed Caliph. The Fatimid Caliphate remained in North Africa during the reign of Imams al-Mahdi (r. 909-934), al-Qa‘im (r. 934-946), and al-Mansur (r. 946-953). Imam al-Mu’izz (r. 953-975) founded the city of Cairo which subsequently became the capital of the empire.
The prolific Sunni, Egyptian scholar of the Mamluk period (1250-1517), Al-Maqrizi (d. 1442), wrote the most comprehensive account of the Fatimid era (909-1171), recording a number of official documents, letters, and sermons of the Fatimids in their entirety, making his works the only surviving source for this material. He wrote about Egyptian political history, topography, and economics, maintaining a distinctive interest in the Fatimids, perhaps due to the way they had reversed Egypt’s chronic political and economic decline.
Al-Maqrizi referenced a wide range of materials then available to him, many of which have not survived, including the works of historian Ibn Zulaq (d. 996), a Shafi’i scholar with Shi’i learnings, who wrote biographies of Imams al-Mu’izz and al-Aziz, and the Fatimid General, Jawhar. His Itti‘az al-hunafa’ bi-akhbar al a’imma al-Fatimiyyin al-khulafa’ (Lessons for the Seekers of Truth in the History of the Fatimid Imams and Caliphs) focuses principally on the Fatimid age, and so it is a particularly valuable historical source on this dynasty.
A section of al-Maqrizi’s Ittiaz has been translated by Dr Shainool Jiwa, titled Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire.
In his Ittiaz, al-Maqrizi, quoting Ibn Zulaq, accounts Imam al-Mu’izz reciting the prayer on the day of Id al-Fitr 362 AH/973 CE:
“On the day of ‘Id al-Fitr, al-Mu’izz rode out for the ‘id prayer to the musalla1 of Cairo that Jawhar had built…. Al-Mu’izz had arrived in regal attire, with his banners and litters. He led the complete, long id prayer… Ibn Zulaq said:
In every rak’a and prostration, I recited the tasbih after him [al-Mu’izz] more than thirty times. [In his Da’a’im… al-Qadi al-Nu’man quotes the Shi’i Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq that the tasbih be recited thirty-three times].2 Al-Qadi al-Nu’man b. Muhammad relayed the takbir after him. In the second rak’a, he recited Surat al-Fatiha and then Surat al-Duha [Suras 1 and 93]. After the recitation, he pronounced the takbir. This was the prayer of his forefather Ali b. Abi Talib. He remained in the position of the second bow and prostration for a long time. After every bow and prostration, I recited the tasbih more than thirty times after him….
When he had completed the prayer, he ascended the minbar (pulpit) and offered salutations to the people to the right and the left. Then he unfurled the two banners that had been placed on the minbar. He delivered the sermon with the banners hoisted in front of him. A heavy brocade cushion had been placed on the highest step of the minbar. He sat on it [during the time] between the two parts of the sermon. He commenced his sermon with ‘In the name of God, the most Gracious, the most Merciful’…
He began by pronouncing, ‘God is Great, God is Great’ and delivered the sermon with such eloquence that it brought tears to people’s eyes. The sermon was delivered with humility and submission” (Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire p107-108).
Mawlana Hazar Imam Aga Khan idd eid namaz
Mawlana Hazar Imam leading prayers, Nairobi, Kenya, 1944. Photo: 25 Years in Pictures
Source: Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire translated by Shainool Jiwa, I.B. Tauris in associated with The Institute of Ismaili Studies
1The musalla was built in Cairo by Jawhar in 358/969 and later renovated by [Imam] al-Aziz. It had a great dome beneath which stood a pulpit and was used specifically for the id prayers (Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire p 107, n. 303)
2 Ibid. p 107, n. 305
https://nimirasblog.wordpress.com/2021/ ... -in-cairo/
Posted by Nimira Dewji
Named after the Prophet’s daughter, the Fatimids, Mawlana Hazar Imam’s ancestors, established their empire in 909 in North Africa when Imam al-Mahdi was proclaimed Caliph. The Fatimid Caliphate remained in North Africa during the reign of Imams al-Mahdi (r. 909-934), al-Qa‘im (r. 934-946), and al-Mansur (r. 946-953). Imam al-Mu’izz (r. 953-975) founded the city of Cairo which subsequently became the capital of the empire.
The prolific Sunni, Egyptian scholar of the Mamluk period (1250-1517), Al-Maqrizi (d. 1442), wrote the most comprehensive account of the Fatimid era (909-1171), recording a number of official documents, letters, and sermons of the Fatimids in their entirety, making his works the only surviving source for this material. He wrote about Egyptian political history, topography, and economics, maintaining a distinctive interest in the Fatimids, perhaps due to the way they had reversed Egypt’s chronic political and economic decline.
Al-Maqrizi referenced a wide range of materials then available to him, many of which have not survived, including the works of historian Ibn Zulaq (d. 996), a Shafi’i scholar with Shi’i learnings, who wrote biographies of Imams al-Mu’izz and al-Aziz, and the Fatimid General, Jawhar. His Itti‘az al-hunafa’ bi-akhbar al a’imma al-Fatimiyyin al-khulafa’ (Lessons for the Seekers of Truth in the History of the Fatimid Imams and Caliphs) focuses principally on the Fatimid age, and so it is a particularly valuable historical source on this dynasty.
A section of al-Maqrizi’s Ittiaz has been translated by Dr Shainool Jiwa, titled Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire.
In his Ittiaz, al-Maqrizi, quoting Ibn Zulaq, accounts Imam al-Mu’izz reciting the prayer on the day of Id al-Fitr 362 AH/973 CE:
“On the day of ‘Id al-Fitr, al-Mu’izz rode out for the ‘id prayer to the musalla1 of Cairo that Jawhar had built…. Al-Mu’izz had arrived in regal attire, with his banners and litters. He led the complete, long id prayer… Ibn Zulaq said:
In every rak’a and prostration, I recited the tasbih after him [al-Mu’izz] more than thirty times. [In his Da’a’im… al-Qadi al-Nu’man quotes the Shi’i Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq that the tasbih be recited thirty-three times].2 Al-Qadi al-Nu’man b. Muhammad relayed the takbir after him. In the second rak’a, he recited Surat al-Fatiha and then Surat al-Duha [Suras 1 and 93]. After the recitation, he pronounced the takbir. This was the prayer of his forefather Ali b. Abi Talib. He remained in the position of the second bow and prostration for a long time. After every bow and prostration, I recited the tasbih more than thirty times after him….
When he had completed the prayer, he ascended the minbar (pulpit) and offered salutations to the people to the right and the left. Then he unfurled the two banners that had been placed on the minbar. He delivered the sermon with the banners hoisted in front of him. A heavy brocade cushion had been placed on the highest step of the minbar. He sat on it [during the time] between the two parts of the sermon. He commenced his sermon with ‘In the name of God, the most Gracious, the most Merciful’…
He began by pronouncing, ‘God is Great, God is Great’ and delivered the sermon with such eloquence that it brought tears to people’s eyes. The sermon was delivered with humility and submission” (Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire p107-108).
Mawlana Hazar Imam Aga Khan idd eid namaz
Mawlana Hazar Imam leading prayers, Nairobi, Kenya, 1944. Photo: 25 Years in Pictures
Source: Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire translated by Shainool Jiwa, I.B. Tauris in associated with The Institute of Ismaili Studies
1The musalla was built in Cairo by Jawhar in 358/969 and later renovated by [Imam] al-Aziz. It had a great dome beneath which stood a pulpit and was used specifically for the id prayers (Towards a Shi’i Mediterranean Empire p 107, n. 303)
2 Ibid. p 107, n. 305
https://nimirasblog.wordpress.com/2021/ ... -in-cairo/
Namaz
22 minutes
Video:
Namaz-e 'Id-al Fitr - Offered by Alnoor Saleh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzRGtdD75go
Namaz-e 'Id-al Fitr.
ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great, God is Great, God is Great
LA ILAHA ILLALLAHU WALLAHU AKBAR
There is no deity except God, God, the Great.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
WALLILLAHIL HAMD ALAMA HADANA
All praise is due to God, Who has guided us (to the right path)
NAMAZ-I IDUL FITR/IDUL ADHA JI NIYAT BANDHO ALLAH MAERIA
DU RAKA'T NAMAAZ-I-‘ID AL-FITR MI GUZAARAM QURBATAN ILALLAH
I offer this two rak’ah prayer of ‘Id al-Fitr to attain the presence of God.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
BISMILLAHIR-RAHMANIR-RAHEEM, AL-HAMDU LILLAHI RABBIL AALAMEEN, MAALIKI
YAUMID-DEEN, IYYAAKA NA’BUDU WA IYYAAKA NASATA’EEN, IHDINAS SIRATAL MUSTAQEEM SIRATAL-LAZEENA AN’AMTA’ ALAYHIM GHAIRIL MAGHZOOBI ALAYHIM WALAZ-ZAAL-LEEN.
In the name of God, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful, All praise is due to God,
the Lord of the Worlds, The most Beneficent, the most Merciful, The Lord of the Day of Judgment, You alone we worship and from You alone we seek help. Guide us to the right path The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favours
Not of those cursed ones and nor of those who have gone astray.
BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM, QUL HUWALLAHU AHAD, ALLAHUS-SAMAD, LAM YALID WA LAM YOOLAD, WA LAM YAKULLAHOO KUFUWAN AHAD
In the name of God, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful, Say: it is God, (who is) One. God is Absolute, Independent, He did not beget nor was He begotten, And there is none like unto Him.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
RABBANA ATINA FID DUNYA HASANTAW- WA FIL AKHIRATI HASANTAW QINA AZABANNARI BI RAHMATIKA YA AR-HAMR-RAHIMEEN.
Our Lord, grant us good in this world, and good in the hereafter, and guard us from the torment of the Fire with Your kindness most Merciful of all Merciful
YA RABBI INNI MAGLUBUN FANTASIR AS’ALUKA KHAIRAM BI HAQQI HAAZIR YAUMILLAZI JA’ALALTAHU LIL MUSLMINA ‘IDA.
My Lord, I am helpless, so help me. I seek from You blessings of this day of ‘Id, which You have granted for all Muslims.
LA ILAHA ILLALLAHUL HALIMUL KARIM. LA ILAHA ILLALLAHUL ALIYYUL AAZIM
There is no deity except God, the the Forbearing, the Bounteous. There is no deity except God, the Exalted, the Magnificent.
SUBHANALLAHI-RABBIS-SAMAWATIS- SAB’I WA RABBIL ARZINAS SAB’I WA MA FIHINNA WA MA BAINA HUNNA WA RABBIL ARSHIL AZIM. WALHAMDUL LILLAHI RABBIL ALAMIN
Praise be to God, the Lord of the seven heavens and the Lord of the seven Earths and what is within them and between them, and the Lord of the Glorious Throne. All praise is due to God the Sustainer of all beings.
ALLAHU AKBAR God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL AAZIM WA BIHAMDIH RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the Great and His is the Praise. O God!, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his Progeny.
SAMI’ALLAHU LIMAN HAMIDAH
God listens to those who praise Him.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL A’ALA WA BIHAMDIHI RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the great and His is the Praise. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his Progeny.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
ASTAGHFIRUL-LAHA RABBI WA’ATUBU ILAYHI
I seek the forgiveness of God, and turn to Him in repentance.
ALLAHU AKHBAR
God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL A’ALA WA BIHAMDIH RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the creator and sustainer, and His is the Praise. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his progeny.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
ASHHADU-AL LA ILAHA ILLA-LAAHU WAHDAHU LA SHARIKA LAHU WA ASHHADU ANNA MUHAMMADAR RASULULLAH, ALLAHUMMA SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
I bear witness that there is no diety except God, He is one and has no associate. And I declare that Muhammad the messenger of God. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his progeny.
IMAMIZ-ZAMAANIL HAAZIR WAL MAUJOOD
Imam of the age is always present and manifest.
AS-SALAAMU ALAYKA AYYUHAN-NABIYYU WA RAHMATUL-LAHI WA BARAKATUH
O Apostle, may peace, blessings and mercy of God be upon you.
AS-SALAAMU ALAINA WA ALA IBADILLAHIS- SALIHIN
May peace be upon us and upon all pious servants of God
AS-SALAAMU ALAIKUM WA RAHEMATULLAHI WA BARAKATUH
May peace, mercy and blessings of God be upon you
ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great, God is Great, God is Great.
SHUKRAN, SHUKRAN, SHUKRAN
Thank You (O God)
ASH-HADU AL LA ILAHA ILALLAH ASH-HADU ANNA MUHAMMADUR RASULULLAH ASH-HADU ANNA ALIYYUN AMIRUL MU’MININA ALIYYULLAH
I bear witness that there is no deity except God, And I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of God, And I bear witness that ‘Aly the Commander of the Faithful, is from God
22 minutes
Video:
Namaz-e 'Id-al Fitr - Offered by Alnoor Saleh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzRGtdD75go
Namaz-e 'Id-al Fitr.
ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great, God is Great, God is Great
LA ILAHA ILLALLAHU WALLAHU AKBAR
There is no deity except God, God, the Great.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
WALLILLAHIL HAMD ALAMA HADANA
All praise is due to God, Who has guided us (to the right path)
NAMAZ-I IDUL FITR/IDUL ADHA JI NIYAT BANDHO ALLAH MAERIA
DU RAKA'T NAMAAZ-I-‘ID AL-FITR MI GUZAARAM QURBATAN ILALLAH
I offer this two rak’ah prayer of ‘Id al-Fitr to attain the presence of God.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
BISMILLAHIR-RAHMANIR-RAHEEM, AL-HAMDU LILLAHI RABBIL AALAMEEN, MAALIKI
YAUMID-DEEN, IYYAAKA NA’BUDU WA IYYAAKA NASATA’EEN, IHDINAS SIRATAL MUSTAQEEM SIRATAL-LAZEENA AN’AMTA’ ALAYHIM GHAIRIL MAGHZOOBI ALAYHIM WALAZ-ZAAL-LEEN.
In the name of God, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful, All praise is due to God,
the Lord of the Worlds, The most Beneficent, the most Merciful, The Lord of the Day of Judgment, You alone we worship and from You alone we seek help. Guide us to the right path The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favours
Not of those cursed ones and nor of those who have gone astray.
BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM, QUL HUWALLAHU AHAD, ALLAHUS-SAMAD, LAM YALID WA LAM YOOLAD, WA LAM YAKULLAHOO KUFUWAN AHAD
In the name of God, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful, Say: it is God, (who is) One. God is Absolute, Independent, He did not beget nor was He begotten, And there is none like unto Him.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
RABBANA ATINA FID DUNYA HASANTAW- WA FIL AKHIRATI HASANTAW QINA AZABANNARI BI RAHMATIKA YA AR-HAMR-RAHIMEEN.
Our Lord, grant us good in this world, and good in the hereafter, and guard us from the torment of the Fire with Your kindness most Merciful of all Merciful
YA RABBI INNI MAGLUBUN FANTASIR AS’ALUKA KHAIRAM BI HAQQI HAAZIR YAUMILLAZI JA’ALALTAHU LIL MUSLMINA ‘IDA.
My Lord, I am helpless, so help me. I seek from You blessings of this day of ‘Id, which You have granted for all Muslims.
LA ILAHA ILLALLAHUL HALIMUL KARIM. LA ILAHA ILLALLAHUL ALIYYUL AAZIM
There is no deity except God, the the Forbearing, the Bounteous. There is no deity except God, the Exalted, the Magnificent.
SUBHANALLAHI-RABBIS-SAMAWATIS- SAB’I WA RABBIL ARZINAS SAB’I WA MA FIHINNA WA MA BAINA HUNNA WA RABBIL ARSHIL AZIM. WALHAMDUL LILLAHI RABBIL ALAMIN
Praise be to God, the Lord of the seven heavens and the Lord of the seven Earths and what is within them and between them, and the Lord of the Glorious Throne. All praise is due to God the Sustainer of all beings.
ALLAHU AKBAR God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL AAZIM WA BIHAMDIH RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the Great and His is the Praise. O God!, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his Progeny.
SAMI’ALLAHU LIMAN HAMIDAH
God listens to those who praise Him.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL A’ALA WA BIHAMDIHI RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the great and His is the Praise. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his Progeny.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
ASTAGHFIRUL-LAHA RABBI WA’ATUBU ILAYHI
I seek the forgiveness of God, and turn to Him in repentance.
ALLAHU AKHBAR
God is Great
SUBHANNALLAHI, SUBHANALLAHI, SUBHANALLAH SUBHANA RABBI-AL A’ALA WA BIHAMDIH RABBI SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
God is Glorious, God is Glorious, God is Glorious, Glorious is my Lord, the creator and sustainer, and His is the Praise. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his progeny.
ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great
ASHHADU-AL LA ILAHA ILLA-LAAHU WAHDAHU LA SHARIKA LAHU WA ASHHADU ANNA MUHAMMADAR RASULULLAH, ALLAHUMMA SALLI ALA MUHAMMADIW WA AALI MUHAMMAD
I bear witness that there is no diety except God, He is one and has no associate. And I declare that Muhammad the messenger of God. O God, shower Your blessings upon Muhammad and his progeny.
IMAMIZ-ZAMAANIL HAAZIR WAL MAUJOOD
Imam of the age is always present and manifest.
AS-SALAAMU ALAYKA AYYUHAN-NABIYYU WA RAHMATUL-LAHI WA BARAKATUH
O Apostle, may peace, blessings and mercy of God be upon you.
AS-SALAAMU ALAINA WA ALA IBADILLAHIS- SALIHIN
May peace be upon us and upon all pious servants of God
AS-SALAAMU ALAIKUM WA RAHEMATULLAHI WA BARAKATUH
May peace, mercy and blessings of God be upon you
ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR
God is Great, God is Great, God is Great.
SHUKRAN, SHUKRAN, SHUKRAN
Thank You (O God)
ASH-HADU AL LA ILAHA ILALLAH ASH-HADU ANNA MUHAMMADUR RASULULLAH ASH-HADU ANNA ALIYYUN AMIRUL MU’MININA ALIYYULLAH
I bear witness that there is no deity except God, And I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of God, And I bear witness that ‘Aly the Commander of the Faithful, is from God
Jashn E Eid - The Pamoja Ensemble
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IBt-YUwmic
Artistes from around the Kenya Jurisdiction came together virtually to create this inspiring piece for Eil Ul Fitr! Enjoy!
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IBt-YUwmic
Artistes from around the Kenya Jurisdiction came together virtually to create this inspiring piece for Eil Ul Fitr! Enjoy!
Eid Mubarak Message from the Jamati Institutions for the USA
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTmaqz917k0
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTmaqz917k0
Celebrating Eid-al-Fitr with the Leo Twins
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCAFFYc_uD4
An evening with Leo Twins Live: Haroon Leo and Sharoon Leo, Instrumental musicians hailing from Pakistan, share traditional and classical music with a modern twist.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCAFFYc_uD4
An evening with Leo Twins Live: Haroon Leo and Sharoon Leo, Instrumental musicians hailing from Pakistan, share traditional and classical music with a modern twist.
Eid al-Adha
This week, alongside our sisters and brothers in Islam, we commemorate Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. The occasion recalls the monotheistic ethos at the heart of the Abrahamic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
It was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah spared the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him). In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.”
On Eid al-Adha, we remember Hazrat Ibrahim’s sacrifice and unyielding devotion, and we also reflect upon the complete trust he had in his Creator. Indeed, complete trust in Allah is modeled through many examples of the Prophets.
The young Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him and his family) who faced life as an orphan, and later, as the Prophet of Islam, was forced to migrate to safety due to constant threats to his life. Still, he was steadfast in his faith in Allah. Such complete reliance on Allah is called tawakkul, a concept we refer to in our prayers when we recite: tawwakaltu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) I rely upon you.
In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust in Him. In Surah al-Maida, Ayat 23, Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” However, this reliance does not imply that we should not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties. We must do our best, while trusting that the outcome will be what Allah deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is reciprocal. In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
In Muslim belief, Prophet Muhammad was the last and final in the line of Allah's Messengers. According to Shia belief, tradition and interpretation of history, the authority for guidance devolved upon his cousin and son-in-law Hazrat Ali and vests thereafter in the Imams in the progeny of Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima, the Prophet's daughter (peace be upon them and their family).
Eid al-Adha also celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the Ahl al-Kitab – the People of the Book. At a speech made in Houston, USA in June 2002, Mawlana Hazar Imam said:
“The shared destiny of the ethos of the Abrahamic tradition that unites Christians, Jews and Muslims is governed by the duty of loving care to help nurture each life that is born to its God-given potential.”
Today, each time we greet one another with “Eid Mubarak,” let us remember the important message of trust in Allah. Let us continue to strengthen that bond through devotion to our Imam-of-the-Time.
The Ismaili wishes you a joyous and heartfelt Eid Mubarak!
https://the.ismaili/global/our-communit ... id-al-adha
This week, alongside our sisters and brothers in Islam, we commemorate Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. The occasion recalls the monotheistic ethos at the heart of the Abrahamic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
It was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah spared the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him). In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.”
On Eid al-Adha, we remember Hazrat Ibrahim’s sacrifice and unyielding devotion, and we also reflect upon the complete trust he had in his Creator. Indeed, complete trust in Allah is modeled through many examples of the Prophets.
The young Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him and his family) who faced life as an orphan, and later, as the Prophet of Islam, was forced to migrate to safety due to constant threats to his life. Still, he was steadfast in his faith in Allah. Such complete reliance on Allah is called tawakkul, a concept we refer to in our prayers when we recite: tawwakaltu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) I rely upon you.
In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust in Him. In Surah al-Maida, Ayat 23, Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” However, this reliance does not imply that we should not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties. We must do our best, while trusting that the outcome will be what Allah deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is reciprocal. In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
In Muslim belief, Prophet Muhammad was the last and final in the line of Allah's Messengers. According to Shia belief, tradition and interpretation of history, the authority for guidance devolved upon his cousin and son-in-law Hazrat Ali and vests thereafter in the Imams in the progeny of Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima, the Prophet's daughter (peace be upon them and their family).
Eid al-Adha also celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the Ahl al-Kitab – the People of the Book. At a speech made in Houston, USA in June 2002, Mawlana Hazar Imam said:
“The shared destiny of the ethos of the Abrahamic tradition that unites Christians, Jews and Muslims is governed by the duty of loving care to help nurture each life that is born to its God-given potential.”
Today, each time we greet one another with “Eid Mubarak,” let us remember the important message of trust in Allah. Let us continue to strengthen that bond through devotion to our Imam-of-the-Time.
The Ismaili wishes you a joyous and heartfelt Eid Mubarak!
https://the.ismaili/global/our-communit ... id-al-adha
Eid al-Adha 10th Dhul Hijjah 1442 – 20th July, 2021
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON JULY 19, 2021
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Eid al-Adha or the “Festival of Sacrifice” is celebrated by Muslims across the world marking the completion of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, commemorated on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, which is the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Arabic term “Eid” is derived from aud meaning ‘to return’. In Islam, it means a recurring festivity of happiness, feast or celebration. Adha, the plural of adhat, means ‘sacrifice’. Across diverse global Muslim communities, it is known by various names including Id al-Akbar, Id al-Kabir, Eid Qurban, Kurban Bayrami, Bakra Eid and Eid al-Adha. It is considered amongst the oldest festivals in Islam, Eid al-Adha honors and remembers one of the greatest trials of faith in the life of Hazrat Ibrahim – or Prophet Abraham (p.b.u.h) – whose example epitomizes the notions of sacrifice, complete submission and obedience to the Creator’s will. In fact, complete trust in the Creator, Allah, is something taught to us through numerous examples of the Prophets.
In his sermon on the occasion of Eid al-Adha in 947 CE, the 13th Ismaili Imam al-Mansur (a.s) (914-952), is reported to have said:
“Most truly this day of yours is a sacred day during a sacred month, made more significant than other days, a day of the greater pilgrimage, in which God, the hallowed and exalted, tested Abraham His friend. He was redeemed in it from slaughtering his son, may God bless them both, and God imposed on the whole people of Islam the obligation of pilgrimage to His sacred house, which He made a refuge for the people and a place of safety.” Source: Orations of the Fatimid Caliphs: Festival Sermons of the Ismaili Imams by Paul Walker (2009), p. 108
On this occasion, all the Muslims who can afford, sacrifice an animal per household and share its meat with relatives and the needy, as well as partake in other acts of charity. This day of Eid also marks the culmination of Hajj rituals. According to the Abrahamic traditions, it is related that, as a test of Hazrat Ibrahim’s faith, the Almighty called upon him in a dream asking him to offer in sacrifice what was dearest to him. Hazrat Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (Ishmael)- (p.b.u.h), and Hazrat Ismail’s consent to be sacrificed exemplify and reflect unconditional commitment to the Will of God, which was substituted by a ram, and it has been perpetuated by Islam. Hazrat Ismail is regarded as a Prophet (Nabi) and an ancestor to Hazrat Muhammad (p.b.u.h). He, along with his father Hazrat Ibrahim, built the house of God called Kaaba.
It is related that once when the Companions of the Prophet asked him about this sacrifice, he replied: “This is commemorative of the Sunnah of your father Abraham” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol. 3 p. 221). The sacrifice was asked of both father and son. The two were united in their faith. For the Holy Quran also says “It is neither their [that is, the sacrificed animals’] meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but [it is] your piety that reaches Him” 22:37. Hence, as the two prepared themselves for the sacrificial act, the Quranic description goes on to say, “…We called out to him, O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision – thus indeed we reward the righteous…indeed this was a manifest trial…” 37:104-106.
Sacrifice suggests an attitude of putting someone else’s needs above our own, of helping those who require assistance and, if need be, giving up, what is important to us for the benefit of others. In our Ismaili traditions, voluntary service is a great example of this mindset, where the murids of the Imam devote their time, knowledge, skills and resources for the benefit of others. It is a tradition that our community has preserved over centuries.
Such complete reliance in the Creator is called “tawakkul”. We use this term in our daily Du’a: tawakkultu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) ‘I rely upon you’. In the Holy Qur’an Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust and reliance in Him. Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” 5:23. This reliance on Allah does not imply that we do not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties; it means that we do our best, but trust in the Creator that the outcome will be whatever our Creator deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is part of a reciprocal relationship between us and God. In Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), Allah says:
“He who draws near to Me a hand’s span, I will draw near to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running…“
During the Prophet’s time Muslims believed that he was appointed to communicate the will of Allah and, therefore, they followed his guidance as part of their tawakkul in Allah’s mercy. We too ought to demonstrate our tawakkul in Allah’s Mercy, even if at times it may seem difficult for us to do so.
The Noble Qur’an portrays Islam as a continuation of Hazrat Ibrahim’s teachings. His life reflected the foundational teachings common to all Abrahamic traditions: iman, tawakkul and qurbani, that is, deep faith, unconditional trust in God and a profound sense of sacrifice. In the Holy Qur’an Prophet Ibrahim is described as a hanif which means ‘one who turned away [from idolatry]’, and a Muslim, that is, one who leads a life of devotion and complete submission to the Will of God. The Qur’an describes him as “one who was neither Jew nor Christian, but one with true faith” 3:67.
The figure of Hazrat Ibrahim and the paradigm of his piety, obedience, trust and unwavering faith are central to all the three monotheistic traditions of Judeo-Christian-Islam, often referred to as the Abrahamic tradition. Furthermore, as is mentioned in the Holy Quran, many great prophets descended from Hazrat Ibrahim, including Prophet Musa (Moses) (p.b.u.h), Hazrat Isa (Jesus) (p.b.u.h), as well as the last and final Prophet, Muhammad al-Mustafa (p.b.u.h).
The notion of divine guidance being vested in the family of Prophet Ibrahim is firmly established in the Qur’an “Allah did choose Adam and Nuh, the family of Ibrahim, and the family of Imran above all people; offspring, one from the other, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing“ 3:33.
For Muslims, divine guidance, which Allah vested in Hazrat Ibrahim’s descendants, continued in Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) who was the ‘khatam an-nabiyeen’, that is, ‘the seal of the prophets’. Thereafter, according to Shi’a tradition and belief, the authority of guiding the community has rested in the Imams from the Prophet’s progeny through hereditary succession and continues till this day, through the Rope of Imamat. Eid al-Adha, therefore, is an occasion to express our sincere gratitude for the immense grace and bounty of the institution of Imamat.
In considering the continued relevance and significance of commemorating Eid al-Adha, the principles of service and sacrifice for concerns loftier than the self, are most pressing and necessary. Eid al-Adha is an opportune time to reflect on how we can “sacrifice” our resources, time and knowledge in the service of the community in which we live and the larger humanity, and towards improving the quality of life of those less fortunate.
On this auspicious occasion, let us not forget the important message of trust and reliance in Allah, and let us continue to strengthen that bond of our trust through devotion and obedience to Allah (s.w.t). Let us remember the spirit of sacrifice epitomized in the example of Hazrat Ibrahim and Hazrat Ismaili. Let us rejoice in the tradition of service that has been preserved by our community throughout history under the guidance of our Imams. And let us celebrate this Eid al-Adha with the rest of the Muslim Ummah as a reminder of the common ethics of all Abrahamic traditions. Let us pray that we are granted strength to continue to serve our families and humanity, in the spirit of selfless sacrifice, whether it be of wealth or desires, is the practical proof of mankind’s devotion to the Creator that Mawlana Hazar Imam exemplifies, Ameen.
Eid Mubarak!
Previous post: //ismailimail.blog/2020/07/19/sadruddin-noorani-chandraat-1st-of-dhu-al-hajj-1441-july-21-2020/
//ismailimail.blog/2021/07/19/eid-al-adha-10th-dhul-hijjah-1442-20th-july-2021/
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON JULY 19, 2021
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Eid al-Adha or the “Festival of Sacrifice” is celebrated by Muslims across the world marking the completion of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, commemorated on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, which is the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Arabic term “Eid” is derived from aud meaning ‘to return’. In Islam, it means a recurring festivity of happiness, feast or celebration. Adha, the plural of adhat, means ‘sacrifice’. Across diverse global Muslim communities, it is known by various names including Id al-Akbar, Id al-Kabir, Eid Qurban, Kurban Bayrami, Bakra Eid and Eid al-Adha. It is considered amongst the oldest festivals in Islam, Eid al-Adha honors and remembers one of the greatest trials of faith in the life of Hazrat Ibrahim – or Prophet Abraham (p.b.u.h) – whose example epitomizes the notions of sacrifice, complete submission and obedience to the Creator’s will. In fact, complete trust in the Creator, Allah, is something taught to us through numerous examples of the Prophets.
In his sermon on the occasion of Eid al-Adha in 947 CE, the 13th Ismaili Imam al-Mansur (a.s) (914-952), is reported to have said:
“Most truly this day of yours is a sacred day during a sacred month, made more significant than other days, a day of the greater pilgrimage, in which God, the hallowed and exalted, tested Abraham His friend. He was redeemed in it from slaughtering his son, may God bless them both, and God imposed on the whole people of Islam the obligation of pilgrimage to His sacred house, which He made a refuge for the people and a place of safety.” Source: Orations of the Fatimid Caliphs: Festival Sermons of the Ismaili Imams by Paul Walker (2009), p. 108
On this occasion, all the Muslims who can afford, sacrifice an animal per household and share its meat with relatives and the needy, as well as partake in other acts of charity. This day of Eid also marks the culmination of Hajj rituals. According to the Abrahamic traditions, it is related that, as a test of Hazrat Ibrahim’s faith, the Almighty called upon him in a dream asking him to offer in sacrifice what was dearest to him. Hazrat Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (Ishmael)- (p.b.u.h), and Hazrat Ismail’s consent to be sacrificed exemplify and reflect unconditional commitment to the Will of God, which was substituted by a ram, and it has been perpetuated by Islam. Hazrat Ismail is regarded as a Prophet (Nabi) and an ancestor to Hazrat Muhammad (p.b.u.h). He, along with his father Hazrat Ibrahim, built the house of God called Kaaba.
It is related that once when the Companions of the Prophet asked him about this sacrifice, he replied: “This is commemorative of the Sunnah of your father Abraham” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol. 3 p. 221). The sacrifice was asked of both father and son. The two were united in their faith. For the Holy Quran also says “It is neither their [that is, the sacrificed animals’] meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but [it is] your piety that reaches Him” 22:37. Hence, as the two prepared themselves for the sacrificial act, the Quranic description goes on to say, “…We called out to him, O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision – thus indeed we reward the righteous…indeed this was a manifest trial…” 37:104-106.
Sacrifice suggests an attitude of putting someone else’s needs above our own, of helping those who require assistance and, if need be, giving up, what is important to us for the benefit of others. In our Ismaili traditions, voluntary service is a great example of this mindset, where the murids of the Imam devote their time, knowledge, skills and resources for the benefit of others. It is a tradition that our community has preserved over centuries.
Such complete reliance in the Creator is called “tawakkul”. We use this term in our daily Du’a: tawakkultu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) ‘I rely upon you’. In the Holy Qur’an Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust and reliance in Him. Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” 5:23. This reliance on Allah does not imply that we do not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties; it means that we do our best, but trust in the Creator that the outcome will be whatever our Creator deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is part of a reciprocal relationship between us and God. In Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), Allah says:
“He who draws near to Me a hand’s span, I will draw near to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running…“
During the Prophet’s time Muslims believed that he was appointed to communicate the will of Allah and, therefore, they followed his guidance as part of their tawakkul in Allah’s mercy. We too ought to demonstrate our tawakkul in Allah’s Mercy, even if at times it may seem difficult for us to do so.
The Noble Qur’an portrays Islam as a continuation of Hazrat Ibrahim’s teachings. His life reflected the foundational teachings common to all Abrahamic traditions: iman, tawakkul and qurbani, that is, deep faith, unconditional trust in God and a profound sense of sacrifice. In the Holy Qur’an Prophet Ibrahim is described as a hanif which means ‘one who turned away [from idolatry]’, and a Muslim, that is, one who leads a life of devotion and complete submission to the Will of God. The Qur’an describes him as “one who was neither Jew nor Christian, but one with true faith” 3:67.
The figure of Hazrat Ibrahim and the paradigm of his piety, obedience, trust and unwavering faith are central to all the three monotheistic traditions of Judeo-Christian-Islam, often referred to as the Abrahamic tradition. Furthermore, as is mentioned in the Holy Quran, many great prophets descended from Hazrat Ibrahim, including Prophet Musa (Moses) (p.b.u.h), Hazrat Isa (Jesus) (p.b.u.h), as well as the last and final Prophet, Muhammad al-Mustafa (p.b.u.h).
The notion of divine guidance being vested in the family of Prophet Ibrahim is firmly established in the Qur’an “Allah did choose Adam and Nuh, the family of Ibrahim, and the family of Imran above all people; offspring, one from the other, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing“ 3:33.
For Muslims, divine guidance, which Allah vested in Hazrat Ibrahim’s descendants, continued in Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) who was the ‘khatam an-nabiyeen’, that is, ‘the seal of the prophets’. Thereafter, according to Shi’a tradition and belief, the authority of guiding the community has rested in the Imams from the Prophet’s progeny through hereditary succession and continues till this day, through the Rope of Imamat. Eid al-Adha, therefore, is an occasion to express our sincere gratitude for the immense grace and bounty of the institution of Imamat.
In considering the continued relevance and significance of commemorating Eid al-Adha, the principles of service and sacrifice for concerns loftier than the self, are most pressing and necessary. Eid al-Adha is an opportune time to reflect on how we can “sacrifice” our resources, time and knowledge in the service of the community in which we live and the larger humanity, and towards improving the quality of life of those less fortunate.
On this auspicious occasion, let us not forget the important message of trust and reliance in Allah, and let us continue to strengthen that bond of our trust through devotion and obedience to Allah (s.w.t). Let us remember the spirit of sacrifice epitomized in the example of Hazrat Ibrahim and Hazrat Ismaili. Let us rejoice in the tradition of service that has been preserved by our community throughout history under the guidance of our Imams. And let us celebrate this Eid al-Adha with the rest of the Muslim Ummah as a reminder of the common ethics of all Abrahamic traditions. Let us pray that we are granted strength to continue to serve our families and humanity, in the spirit of selfless sacrifice, whether it be of wealth or desires, is the practical proof of mankind’s devotion to the Creator that Mawlana Hazar Imam exemplifies, Ameen.
Eid Mubarak!
Previous post: //ismailimail.blog/2020/07/19/sadruddin-noorani-chandraat-1st-of-dhu-al-hajj-1441-july-21-2020/
//ismailimail.blog/2021/07/19/eid-al-adha-10th-dhul-hijjah-1442-20th-july-2021/
Esoteric Meaning (Ta'wil) of 'Id al-Adha
Id al-Adha is the day which marks when Prophet Abraham sacrificed his son Ismail by the command of God. The literal story as related in the Qur’an (Surah 37) describes how Abraham saw in a vision that God ordered him to sacrifice his only son and as Abraham was about to slaughter his son Ismail, God miraculously replaced Ismail with a “momentous sacrifice” – which Muslim tradition identifies with a ram.
For Ismaili Muslims, this story of Abraham’s sacrifice of Ismail and Ismail’s replacement with a “momentous sacrifice” holds an esoteric meaning (ta’wil) which is the reality (haqiqah) of the entire story. According to the holy Qur’an (2:124), Hazrat Abraham was the Imam of the time appointed by God and this Imamah continues by divine appointment in Abraham’s progeny. “Sacrifice” means to “make sacred”. The Imam who bears the weight of the Imamat has sacrificed his entire life, soul and being in the perpetual service of God and humankind and this is the ultimate spiritual sacrifice.
Thus, the divine command for Abraham to SACRIFICE Ismail does not mean to sacrifice him physically but TO APPOINT ISMAIL as the successor to the IMAMAT after him. So when the holy Qur'an says:
“And We substituted him with a momentous (azim) sacrifice.” [37:107]
This means that Abraham THEN APPOINTED his second son Isaac to the Imamat to share the burden of Imamat with Ismail. Thus Abraham’s two sons, Ismail and Isaac, succeeded to the Imamat: Mawlana Ismail was the Permanent Imam (imam mustaqarr) and Hazrat Isaac was the Entrusted Imam (imam mustawda) established as a deputy and veil (hijab) for the Permanent Imams. As Henry Corbin explains, the “ram” with which God substitutes Ismail’s sacrifice is none other than Isaac himself:
"Here again the whole body of Ismaili Gnosis may be taken as a guide. By this Gnosis, Ishmael is regarded as the Spiritual Heir, the Imam who holds the secret of the Gnosis, while Isaac is a Veil: the veil or screen of the Letter which is placed before the Imam. The relationship between them corresponds to the fundamental distinction between the appointed and permanent Imam (mustaqarr), and an Imam who is merely a depository or curator (mustawda), established as a kind of protection during periods of danger and apparently performing the functions of the true Imam, while the latter remains hidden. Ishmael was the Upholder of the mystical meaning, of the esoteric science of ta'wil, while Isaac was before him as a Veil, maintaining the science of tanzil, of the revealed Letter and of positive religion. The same relationship is perpetuated in the course of their respective lineages…Whereas Moses established a new Law (shari'at), a new positive religion, the descendants of Ishmael continued and transmitted the esoteric message of Gnosis.”
- Henry Corbin, (Temple and Contemplation, 167)
Prophet Muhammad and Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib descend from the hereditary Imams of the progeny of Ismail son of Abraham. Today the living Imam is Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV. Today the spiritual sacrifice of Prophet Abraham and his son Mawlana Ismail continue to be embodied in the person of Mawlana Hazar Imam.
When he assumed the office of Imamat on July 11, 1957, Mawlana Hazar Imam boldly declared that he was dedicating his entire life and existence to serving his followers and the world of Islam:
"I have dedicated my life to the uplift and progress of the Ismailis all over the world and I pray for all your happiness and success."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV, (Willi Frischauer, The Aga Khans, 217)
"My grandfather dedicated his life to the Imamat and Islam, both of which came first, and above all other considerations.... My life, as his, will be dedicated to the service of my followers."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV
In a candid interview given in 1969, Mawlana Shah Karim al-Husayni describes the struggles that he undergoes in fulfilling the mission of the Imamat:
"I hardly have time to think about myself. I have my moments of fatigue, anxiety, but without the feeling of abandonment. I am engaged. I have to weigh, to consider, to try make a wise decision. But, with my advisers, I escape the isolation. “Responsibility is a burden we love.” I received from my grandfather responsibilities that are heavy but not burdensome. This is not a burden. It is a pleasure to devote oneself (de se consacrer = “to sacrifice oneself”) to such a community, to work for people. The responsibilities are a burden that we love to wear."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV, (Elle Magazine Interview with Paul Giannoli, “The Mystery of the Aga Khan”, August 20, 1969)
ask.ismailignosis.com/article/100-id-al-adha-tawil
Id al-Adha is the day which marks when Prophet Abraham sacrificed his son Ismail by the command of God. The literal story as related in the Qur’an (Surah 37) describes how Abraham saw in a vision that God ordered him to sacrifice his only son and as Abraham was about to slaughter his son Ismail, God miraculously replaced Ismail with a “momentous sacrifice” – which Muslim tradition identifies with a ram.
For Ismaili Muslims, this story of Abraham’s sacrifice of Ismail and Ismail’s replacement with a “momentous sacrifice” holds an esoteric meaning (ta’wil) which is the reality (haqiqah) of the entire story. According to the holy Qur’an (2:124), Hazrat Abraham was the Imam of the time appointed by God and this Imamah continues by divine appointment in Abraham’s progeny. “Sacrifice” means to “make sacred”. The Imam who bears the weight of the Imamat has sacrificed his entire life, soul and being in the perpetual service of God and humankind and this is the ultimate spiritual sacrifice.
Thus, the divine command for Abraham to SACRIFICE Ismail does not mean to sacrifice him physically but TO APPOINT ISMAIL as the successor to the IMAMAT after him. So when the holy Qur'an says:
“And We substituted him with a momentous (azim) sacrifice.” [37:107]
This means that Abraham THEN APPOINTED his second son Isaac to the Imamat to share the burden of Imamat with Ismail. Thus Abraham’s two sons, Ismail and Isaac, succeeded to the Imamat: Mawlana Ismail was the Permanent Imam (imam mustaqarr) and Hazrat Isaac was the Entrusted Imam (imam mustawda) established as a deputy and veil (hijab) for the Permanent Imams. As Henry Corbin explains, the “ram” with which God substitutes Ismail’s sacrifice is none other than Isaac himself:
"Here again the whole body of Ismaili Gnosis may be taken as a guide. By this Gnosis, Ishmael is regarded as the Spiritual Heir, the Imam who holds the secret of the Gnosis, while Isaac is a Veil: the veil or screen of the Letter which is placed before the Imam. The relationship between them corresponds to the fundamental distinction between the appointed and permanent Imam (mustaqarr), and an Imam who is merely a depository or curator (mustawda), established as a kind of protection during periods of danger and apparently performing the functions of the true Imam, while the latter remains hidden. Ishmael was the Upholder of the mystical meaning, of the esoteric science of ta'wil, while Isaac was before him as a Veil, maintaining the science of tanzil, of the revealed Letter and of positive religion. The same relationship is perpetuated in the course of their respective lineages…Whereas Moses established a new Law (shari'at), a new positive religion, the descendants of Ishmael continued and transmitted the esoteric message of Gnosis.”
- Henry Corbin, (Temple and Contemplation, 167)
Prophet Muhammad and Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib descend from the hereditary Imams of the progeny of Ismail son of Abraham. Today the living Imam is Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV. Today the spiritual sacrifice of Prophet Abraham and his son Mawlana Ismail continue to be embodied in the person of Mawlana Hazar Imam.
When he assumed the office of Imamat on July 11, 1957, Mawlana Hazar Imam boldly declared that he was dedicating his entire life and existence to serving his followers and the world of Islam:
"I have dedicated my life to the uplift and progress of the Ismailis all over the world and I pray for all your happiness and success."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV, (Willi Frischauer, The Aga Khans, 217)
"My grandfather dedicated his life to the Imamat and Islam, both of which came first, and above all other considerations.... My life, as his, will be dedicated to the service of my followers."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV
In a candid interview given in 1969, Mawlana Shah Karim al-Husayni describes the struggles that he undergoes in fulfilling the mission of the Imamat:
"I hardly have time to think about myself. I have my moments of fatigue, anxiety, but without the feeling of abandonment. I am engaged. I have to weigh, to consider, to try make a wise decision. But, with my advisers, I escape the isolation. “Responsibility is a burden we love.” I received from my grandfather responsibilities that are heavy but not burdensome. This is not a burden. It is a pleasure to devote oneself (de se consacrer = “to sacrifice oneself”) to such a community, to work for people. The responsibilities are a burden that we love to wear."
- Imam Shah Karim al-Husayni; Aga Khan IV, (Elle Magazine Interview with Paul Giannoli, “The Mystery of the Aga Khan”, August 20, 1969)
ask.ismailignosis.com/article/100-id-al-adha-tawil
Singing together in the spirit of harmony
The festival of Eid al-Adha celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the three Abrahamic faiths. A new musical composition performed by artists in the UK harnesses a long-standing relationship between three faith communities and illustrates the strength found in diversity.
Commissioned by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, the song features contributions from each of the three monotheistic faiths, with Jewish, Christian, and Muslim instrumentalists and vocalists all involved.
The project was led by Rabbi Hannah Kingston from the Alyth Synagogue, who shared the genesis of the collaboration.
“The aim of this project was to bring people of different faiths together to work towards a common goal, writing and performing a song. This project has achieved so much more than this,” said Rabbi Kingston.
“It has given us a chance to discover our similarities and celebrate our differences, to create genuine friendships and meaningful connections. During an uncertain time in our world, working together on this project has given us a sense of solidarity, so we can be truly united in our song.”
In a moment of fortune while the artists were filming scenes for the music video, Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, happened to be walking past the Ismaili Centre. He was asked to join the recording and was happy to do so, being a longtime friend of the Ismaili Community in the UK jurisdiction.
Sadiq Khan, London’s first Muslim Mayor, has visited the Ismaili Centre before, and was present at the inauguration of the Aga Khan Centre during Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee visit to the UK.
Each of the three communities brought their own flavour to the composition, with different musical influences weaved together to make a diverse yet harmonious sound. Due to Covid restrictions, the song was conceived and worked on virtually by those involved.
Alison Fisher from St Mary-at-Finchley Church spoke of the experience of the creative process, and the monotheistic message offered.
“Taking a part in the initiative has been amazing, and we hope this new song, from the three Abrahamic faiths, will bring us all together in love, joy, peace, and above all harmony,” she said.
Fahreen Virani Pithia, a member of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board in the UK, who appears as a vocalist in the song, spoke of the aims of the project, and the pleasing end result.
“The initial brief to the musical director and producer was to create a catchy, fun song and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved. We feel so proud and the positive response has been overwhelming.”
---
View the music video of United in Our Song, and the entire The Ismaili Sounds collection.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... it-harmony
*******
Music video: United in Our Song
Video:
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... d-our-song
The Ismaili is pleased to present United in Our Song, featuring contributions from each of the three Abrahamic faiths, with Jewish, Christian, and Muslim instrumentalists and vocalists all involved.
The festival of Eid al-Adha celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the three Abrahamic faiths. A new musical composition performed by artists in the UK harnesses a long-standing relationship between three faith communities and illustrates the strength found in diversity.
Commissioned by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, the song features contributions from each of the three monotheistic faiths, with Jewish, Christian, and Muslim instrumentalists and vocalists all involved.
The project was led by Rabbi Hannah Kingston from the Alyth Synagogue, who shared the genesis of the collaboration.
“The aim of this project was to bring people of different faiths together to work towards a common goal, writing and performing a song. This project has achieved so much more than this,” said Rabbi Kingston.
“It has given us a chance to discover our similarities and celebrate our differences, to create genuine friendships and meaningful connections. During an uncertain time in our world, working together on this project has given us a sense of solidarity, so we can be truly united in our song.”
In a moment of fortune while the artists were filming scenes for the music video, Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, happened to be walking past the Ismaili Centre. He was asked to join the recording and was happy to do so, being a longtime friend of the Ismaili Community in the UK jurisdiction.
Sadiq Khan, London’s first Muslim Mayor, has visited the Ismaili Centre before, and was present at the inauguration of the Aga Khan Centre during Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee visit to the UK.
Each of the three communities brought their own flavour to the composition, with different musical influences weaved together to make a diverse yet harmonious sound. Due to Covid restrictions, the song was conceived and worked on virtually by those involved.
Alison Fisher from St Mary-at-Finchley Church spoke of the experience of the creative process, and the monotheistic message offered.
“Taking a part in the initiative has been amazing, and we hope this new song, from the three Abrahamic faiths, will bring us all together in love, joy, peace, and above all harmony,” she said.
Fahreen Virani Pithia, a member of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board in the UK, who appears as a vocalist in the song, spoke of the aims of the project, and the pleasing end result.
“The initial brief to the musical director and producer was to create a catchy, fun song and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved. We feel so proud and the positive response has been overwhelming.”
---
View the music video of United in Our Song, and the entire The Ismaili Sounds collection.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... it-harmony
*******
Music video: United in Our Song
Video:
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... d-our-song
The Ismaili is pleased to present United in Our Song, featuring contributions from each of the three Abrahamic faiths, with Jewish, Christian, and Muslim instrumentalists and vocalists all involved.
1st May 2022: Eid al-Fitr
Chand Raat of Shawwal 1443 Hijri – 1st May 2022: Eid al-Fitr
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON APRIL 30, 2022
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Today marks the 30th day of the month of Ramadan, of the year 1443 in the Islamic lunar calendar. After sunset, began the first of Shawwal, which is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated the following morning, at the conclusion of Ramadan, which is a time of reflection, of piety, of prayer and of abstention from our base desires, in Arabic known as nafs. Also, in the month of Ramadan falls the auspicious Night of Divine Power, Laylat al-Qadr during the last ashraa of the month (the word ashraa, refers to the last ten nights of the Holy month of Ramadan when the first verse of the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h)). Thus, the Night of Power is the culmination of the month when we can look back at our lives and reflect upon our spiritual selves and material lives, and above all, be thankful for all that God has bestowed upon us, which engenders thoughts of devotion, prayer, compassion, and ethical behavior in believers, enabling us to become pure and come closer to God.
Eid al-Fitr is also the day of gratitude, often expressed in many ways: by distributing alms to the poor and the needy and by offering special prayers. We also thank God on this day for the help and strength we have received during the month of Ramadan – a time of austerity and intense prayer. It is a time to think about our loved ones and to pray for those who are no longer with us. It is also a time for reconciliation, a time to forgive those who may have hurt us and to approach those that we may have knowingly or unknowingly hurt and ask them for forgiveness, with an open heart and sincerity. It is a time to make amends with business colleagues and apologize to family members that we may have upset or hurt unintentionally. It is a time of openness, forgiveness, and renewal.
This sense of forgiveness is captured beautifully in the greetings offered on Eid in Indonesia. While throughout much of the Arabic-speaking and South Asian world, Muslims greet each other by saying Eid Mubarak or Eid Saeed, in Indonesia, the country with the world’s largest Muslim population, people greet each other on Eid al-Fitr by saying, “mohon maaf lahir dan batin,” meaning “forgive my physical and emotional wrong doings.”
“We have not created the heavens and the earth and everything in between except for a purpose. And the Hour is certain to come, so forgive graciously.” (The Holy Quran 15:85)
Festivals play a very important role in any religion. They provide us with an opportunity to rejoice in the company of others, to promote a greater sense of belonging and identity, and to reflect upon our duties and responsibilities. Eid al-Fitr embodies these values. It is a festival of joy and faith. It is a time for relaxation, of renewed hope, of strengthened resolution to do what is right, and of goodwill towards all.
The word Eid means celebration of a feast, a festival, or a holiday. The term fitr is derived from the Arabic root word “fatara” which means to open or split, and therefore, to break the fast. Thus, the derivative words fitr or iftar mean breaking of the fast. Another derivative of the same root word is fitra which means charity, giving alms, sacrifice, etc. Thus, Eid al-Fitr is a festival celebrated as the culmination of fasting in the month of Ramadan, accompanied with the offerings of charity. And therefore, Eid al-Fitr is also called Eid as-Sadaqah, meaning ‘festival of charity’.
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated around the world with great enthusiasm and festivity. It is also a time when Muslims exchange greetings with our sisters and brothers around the world; and at home, new traditional/ethnic clothes are worn, friends and relatives socialize, children receive presents, and more alms and charity are given to the needy. It is a time for delicacies and, above all, reconciliation with anyone whom we don’t get along with or who may have harmed or hurt us, as well as the renewal of ties of friendship and kinship.
“Whoever honors you, then honor him. And whoever scorns you, then honor yourself from him.” Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s)
This reminds us that whilst we are celebrating and rejoicing, we should also be mindful about people around us – within our family, community, society and around the world. Can we be helpful to them? What can we do to make their lives comfortable, happy, and to make them smile? How can we support them? These and other relevant questions must be thought about as we celebrate the Eid festival. Since we are blessed by Allah, Eid al-Fitr reminds us to offer fitra, i.e., charity to our fellow beings; give something from what we have and show generosity towards all around us. This is the essential message of Eid al-Fitr, which concludes the month of physical, intellectual, and spiritual discipline and restraints practiced during Ramadan. The message we must take home is that these acts of piety should not remain only for one day, or for one month, but throughout the year.
So, tomorrow, in addition to celebrating Eid al-Fitr with our families and spending time with our loved ones, let us keep an open heart on this special day, to be thankful for Allah’s bounty and to do our best to forgive those who have hurt or upset us in the past, and to pray that those we may have hurt will have the courage and strength to do the same.
https://ismailimail.blog/2022/04/30/cha ... d-al-fitr/
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON APRIL 30, 2022
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Today marks the 30th day of the month of Ramadan, of the year 1443 in the Islamic lunar calendar. After sunset, began the first of Shawwal, which is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated the following morning, at the conclusion of Ramadan, which is a time of reflection, of piety, of prayer and of abstention from our base desires, in Arabic known as nafs. Also, in the month of Ramadan falls the auspicious Night of Divine Power, Laylat al-Qadr during the last ashraa of the month (the word ashraa, refers to the last ten nights of the Holy month of Ramadan when the first verse of the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h)). Thus, the Night of Power is the culmination of the month when we can look back at our lives and reflect upon our spiritual selves and material lives, and above all, be thankful for all that God has bestowed upon us, which engenders thoughts of devotion, prayer, compassion, and ethical behavior in believers, enabling us to become pure and come closer to God.
Eid al-Fitr is also the day of gratitude, often expressed in many ways: by distributing alms to the poor and the needy and by offering special prayers. We also thank God on this day for the help and strength we have received during the month of Ramadan – a time of austerity and intense prayer. It is a time to think about our loved ones and to pray for those who are no longer with us. It is also a time for reconciliation, a time to forgive those who may have hurt us and to approach those that we may have knowingly or unknowingly hurt and ask them for forgiveness, with an open heart and sincerity. It is a time to make amends with business colleagues and apologize to family members that we may have upset or hurt unintentionally. It is a time of openness, forgiveness, and renewal.
This sense of forgiveness is captured beautifully in the greetings offered on Eid in Indonesia. While throughout much of the Arabic-speaking and South Asian world, Muslims greet each other by saying Eid Mubarak or Eid Saeed, in Indonesia, the country with the world’s largest Muslim population, people greet each other on Eid al-Fitr by saying, “mohon maaf lahir dan batin,” meaning “forgive my physical and emotional wrong doings.”
“We have not created the heavens and the earth and everything in between except for a purpose. And the Hour is certain to come, so forgive graciously.” (The Holy Quran 15:85)
Festivals play a very important role in any religion. They provide us with an opportunity to rejoice in the company of others, to promote a greater sense of belonging and identity, and to reflect upon our duties and responsibilities. Eid al-Fitr embodies these values. It is a festival of joy and faith. It is a time for relaxation, of renewed hope, of strengthened resolution to do what is right, and of goodwill towards all.
The word Eid means celebration of a feast, a festival, or a holiday. The term fitr is derived from the Arabic root word “fatara” which means to open or split, and therefore, to break the fast. Thus, the derivative words fitr or iftar mean breaking of the fast. Another derivative of the same root word is fitra which means charity, giving alms, sacrifice, etc. Thus, Eid al-Fitr is a festival celebrated as the culmination of fasting in the month of Ramadan, accompanied with the offerings of charity. And therefore, Eid al-Fitr is also called Eid as-Sadaqah, meaning ‘festival of charity’.
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated around the world with great enthusiasm and festivity. It is also a time when Muslims exchange greetings with our sisters and brothers around the world; and at home, new traditional/ethnic clothes are worn, friends and relatives socialize, children receive presents, and more alms and charity are given to the needy. It is a time for delicacies and, above all, reconciliation with anyone whom we don’t get along with or who may have harmed or hurt us, as well as the renewal of ties of friendship and kinship.
“Whoever honors you, then honor him. And whoever scorns you, then honor yourself from him.” Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s)
This reminds us that whilst we are celebrating and rejoicing, we should also be mindful about people around us – within our family, community, society and around the world. Can we be helpful to them? What can we do to make their lives comfortable, happy, and to make them smile? How can we support them? These and other relevant questions must be thought about as we celebrate the Eid festival. Since we are blessed by Allah, Eid al-Fitr reminds us to offer fitra, i.e., charity to our fellow beings; give something from what we have and show generosity towards all around us. This is the essential message of Eid al-Fitr, which concludes the month of physical, intellectual, and spiritual discipline and restraints practiced during Ramadan. The message we must take home is that these acts of piety should not remain only for one day, or for one month, but throughout the year.
So, tomorrow, in addition to celebrating Eid al-Fitr with our families and spending time with our loved ones, let us keep an open heart on this special day, to be thankful for Allah’s bounty and to do our best to forgive those who have hurt or upset us in the past, and to pray that those we may have hurt will have the courage and strength to do the same.
https://ismailimail.blog/2022/04/30/cha ... d-al-fitr/
"Eid er Kusum" - Bloom of Eid (Bengali Eid Song) - H Ahmed
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aec6Ry5AASU
Eid er Kusum
Bloom of Eid
H Ahmed presents a new Bengali Eid song "Eid er Kusum". Music composition is also done by H Ahmed and lyrics written by Jubair Alam.
JollyGul is presenting this song "Eid er Kusum" with lyrics and English translations in time to celebrate the soon coming blessed occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
May divine happiness fill your homes and hearts. Wishing you all Eid Mubarak!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aec6Ry5AASU
Eid er Kusum
Bloom of Eid
H Ahmed presents a new Bengali Eid song "Eid er Kusum". Music composition is also done by H Ahmed and lyrics written by Jubair Alam.
JollyGul is presenting this song "Eid er Kusum" with lyrics and English translations in time to celebrate the soon coming blessed occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
May divine happiness fill your homes and hearts. Wishing you all Eid Mubarak!
Photos: Eid al-Fitr and the End of Ramadan 2022
The Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan, began this week in parts of the world where sightings of the new moon were made. During Ramadan, devout Muslims abstain from food, drink, and sex from dawn until sunset. The fast, one of the five pillars of Islam, is seen as a time for spiritual reflection, prayers, and charity. Collected below are images of Muslims around the world observing Eid al-Fitr and Ramadan this year.
1. Muslims perform evening prayers during the holy month of Ramadan in the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on April 29, 2022.
2. A Muslim man looks at his son as Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim festival marking the end of Ramadan fast, is celebrated at the Teaneck National Guard Armory in Teaneck, New Jersey, on May 2
3. People gather during iftar (an evening meal that breaks the Ramadan fast), in the town of Tadef, on the front line between Russian-backed Syrian-government forces and Turkish-backed Syrian-rebel-held territory, in northern Syria, on April 18.
4. Young women take selfies following morning prayers at the Foundation of the Islamic Center of Thailand mosque during Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Bangkok on May 2.
5, Muslim worshippers pray during the Eid al-Fitr morning prayer sermon at a soccer stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on May 2
6. Kyrgyz Muslim worshippers pray in the center of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 2.
7. An Egyptian baker prepares kanafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert sold during the month of Ramadan, at a market in Cairo's Shubra Misr district on April 6
8. A woman poses for pictures after applying henna tattoos to her hands during Chand Raat, or "Night of the Moon," in Kathmandu on May 1, on the eve of the Muslim Eid al-Fitr festival.
9. Muslims attend mass prayers on the street during Eid al-Fitr, in Jakarta, Indonesia, on May 2. #
10. Women embrace as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Masjid At-Taqwa mosque, in New York City's Brooklyn borough, on May 2
11. An Iraqi boy poses for a picture on the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the Al-Zubair District of Iraq's southern Basra Governorate on May 2
12. An open iftar takes place in Trafalgar Square to mark the final week of Ramadan on April 28, in London, England
13. This aerial photo, taken on May 2, shows Albanian Muslims praying at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, Albania, on the first day of Eid al-Fitr.
14. Iraqi Muslims visit the graves of their relatives during a dust storm on the first day of Eid al-Fitr, at the cemetery of Hassan al-Basri, in the Al-Zubair District in Iraq's Basra Governorate, on May 2.
15. Residents of Ezbet Hamada gather to eat during iftar in El Matareya, Cairo, Egypt, on April 16.
16. The waning crescent moon, near the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is pictured behind the Mohammad Baqir al-Sadr bridge in Iraq's southern city of Basra early on April 28.
17.Children walk in the grass after attending Eid al-Fitr prayers in Bucharest, Romania, on May 2.
18. Russian riot police stand guard as Muslims gather to perform Eid al-Fitr prayers in Moscow, Russia, on May 2.
19. Muslims pray during the Eid al-Fitr morning prayer in Adjame, a district of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on May 2.
20. Muslim students illuminated by traditional torches take part in a night reading of the Quran at the Nurul Hidayah Al Mubarokah boarding school, during Ramadan, in Boyolali, Central Java province, Indonesia, on April 22.
21. Muslims gather for mass prayers to celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Seoul Central Mosque in South Korea on May 2.
22. Amatuallah (right) and her sons Abdul Eliu (left) and Manases eat a suhoor meal on the first day of Ramadan at their home in Havana, Cuba, on April 3.
23. A family prepares cookies for Eid al-Fitr in Basra, Iraq, on May 2.
24. People walk past a storefront lit by traditional lanterns during Ramadan at a popular tourist area in the Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo, Egypt, on April 27.
25. Nigerians take a photo in their traditional clothes during Eid al-Fitr prayers in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 2.
26. Muslim worshippers participate in Eid al-Fitr prayers at Small Heath Park in Birmingham, England, on May 2
27. Performers display their skills with torches and lanterns in a parade in Makassar, Indonesia, on May 1 while celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
28. Muslim women attend Eid al-Fitr prayers in Milan, Italy, on May 2.
29. Muslim worshippers offer Eid al-Fitr prayers at a park in Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Israel, on May 2
30. Festive lighting decorates the streets in Geylang Serai, ahead of Eid al-Fitr, also known as Hari Raya Puasa, in Singapore on April 29.
https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2022/ ... 22/629738/
1. Muslims perform evening prayers during the holy month of Ramadan in the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on April 29, 2022.
2. A Muslim man looks at his son as Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim festival marking the end of Ramadan fast, is celebrated at the Teaneck National Guard Armory in Teaneck, New Jersey, on May 2
3. People gather during iftar (an evening meal that breaks the Ramadan fast), in the town of Tadef, on the front line between Russian-backed Syrian-government forces and Turkish-backed Syrian-rebel-held territory, in northern Syria, on April 18.
4. Young women take selfies following morning prayers at the Foundation of the Islamic Center of Thailand mosque during Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Bangkok on May 2.
5, Muslim worshippers pray during the Eid al-Fitr morning prayer sermon at a soccer stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on May 2
6. Kyrgyz Muslim worshippers pray in the center of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 2.
7. An Egyptian baker prepares kanafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert sold during the month of Ramadan, at a market in Cairo's Shubra Misr district on April 6
8. A woman poses for pictures after applying henna tattoos to her hands during Chand Raat, or "Night of the Moon," in Kathmandu on May 1, on the eve of the Muslim Eid al-Fitr festival.
9. Muslims attend mass prayers on the street during Eid al-Fitr, in Jakarta, Indonesia, on May 2. #
10. Women embrace as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Masjid At-Taqwa mosque, in New York City's Brooklyn borough, on May 2
11. An Iraqi boy poses for a picture on the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the Al-Zubair District of Iraq's southern Basra Governorate on May 2
12. An open iftar takes place in Trafalgar Square to mark the final week of Ramadan on April 28, in London, England
13. This aerial photo, taken on May 2, shows Albanian Muslims praying at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, Albania, on the first day of Eid al-Fitr.
14. Iraqi Muslims visit the graves of their relatives during a dust storm on the first day of Eid al-Fitr, at the cemetery of Hassan al-Basri, in the Al-Zubair District in Iraq's Basra Governorate, on May 2.
15. Residents of Ezbet Hamada gather to eat during iftar in El Matareya, Cairo, Egypt, on April 16.
16. The waning crescent moon, near the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is pictured behind the Mohammad Baqir al-Sadr bridge in Iraq's southern city of Basra early on April 28.
17.Children walk in the grass after attending Eid al-Fitr prayers in Bucharest, Romania, on May 2.
18. Russian riot police stand guard as Muslims gather to perform Eid al-Fitr prayers in Moscow, Russia, on May 2.
19. Muslims pray during the Eid al-Fitr morning prayer in Adjame, a district of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on May 2.
20. Muslim students illuminated by traditional torches take part in a night reading of the Quran at the Nurul Hidayah Al Mubarokah boarding school, during Ramadan, in Boyolali, Central Java province, Indonesia, on April 22.
21. Muslims gather for mass prayers to celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Seoul Central Mosque in South Korea on May 2.
22. Amatuallah (right) and her sons Abdul Eliu (left) and Manases eat a suhoor meal on the first day of Ramadan at their home in Havana, Cuba, on April 3.
23. A family prepares cookies for Eid al-Fitr in Basra, Iraq, on May 2.
24. People walk past a storefront lit by traditional lanterns during Ramadan at a popular tourist area in the Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo, Egypt, on April 27.
25. Nigerians take a photo in their traditional clothes during Eid al-Fitr prayers in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 2.
26. Muslim worshippers participate in Eid al-Fitr prayers at Small Heath Park in Birmingham, England, on May 2
27. Performers display their skills with torches and lanterns in a parade in Makassar, Indonesia, on May 1 while celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
28. Muslim women attend Eid al-Fitr prayers in Milan, Italy, on May 2.
29. Muslim worshippers offer Eid al-Fitr prayers at a park in Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, Israel, on May 2
30. Festive lighting decorates the streets in Geylang Serai, ahead of Eid al-Fitr, also known as Hari Raya Puasa, in Singapore on April 29.
https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2022/ ... 22/629738/
President Biden hosts Eid celebration at the White House with Ismailis in attendance
President Joe Biden hosted an Eid al-Fitr celebration at the White House on Monday, May 2nd, 2022.
The event was attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, elected representatives, and Muslim community leaders from across the country. Several members of the Ismaili community, including White House and Congressional staff, civic engagement organization representatives, and Ismaili Council for the USA leadership were also in attendance.
During his remarks, President Biden stated: “And the resilience of Muslim Americans enriching the fabric of this nation is testament of the Qur'an’s teachings, ‘We have made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another’… Our differences should not be obstacles that divide us but opportunities to learn from one another.”
The sentiment expressed by the President echoes remarks often made by Mawlana Hazar Imam, for example, at the Jodidi Lecture at Harvard University, where he said that “…diversity is not a burden to be endured, but an opportunity to be welcomed.”
The President went on to recognize the courage and commitment of Muslim frontline workers and first responders, and “the brilliant Muslim scientists who helped pioneer the technology for COVID-19 vaccine.” He also affirmed that Muslim Americans, are “making invaluable cultural and economic contributions to communities all across the nation.”
While attending the event, Ismaili Council for the USA President Al-Karim Alidina and Vice President Celina Charania Shariff also met with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and Josh Dickson, Senior Advisor, Public Engagement at the White House, and discussed opportunities for collaboration and partnership based on shared priorities of inclusivity, pluralism, and civic engagement.
The Eid festival marks the culmination of the month of Ramadan, during which Muslims turn inwards through fasting and spiritual devotion, and outwards through acts of kindness and compassion.
More photos at:
https://the.ismaili/usa/president-biden ... attendance
Re: EID MUBARAK
USA TODAY
Eid al-Adha 2022: When is the Muslim holiday observed in the US and how is it celebrated?
Sudiksha Kochi, Jordan Culver and Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY
Thu, July 7, 2022 at 5:00 AM
Millions of Muslims worldwide this week will celebrate Eid al-Adha, an Islamic religious festival commemorating Prophet Abraham's faithfulness to God after being tested with the unfulfilled command to sacrifice his son.
The holiday also marks the end of the yearly Hajj pilgrimage. It is different from Eid al-Fitr, another major Muslim holiday celebrated each May to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Eid is a three-day celebration in Muslim-majority countries. But in the United States, it's generally observed on one day.
In the United States, most Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Adha starting July 9 by visiting mosques and hosting large community gatherings. In other countries, celebrations take place at different times.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Mohammad Hassan Khalil, a professor of religious studies and director of the Muslim studies program at Michigan State University, said Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar.
It is also celebrated during the annual Holy Pilgrimage of Hajj, in which thousands of Muslims travel to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia to worship in the Ka'bah, the most sacred site in Islam.
Khalil says that the day of celebration is determined by the sighting of a new crescent moon at night. If people spot it, this indicates a new month.
What is al-Adha?
“Al-Adha” refers to sacrifice, specifically the “one in which Abraham was asked – as a test – by God to sacrifice his son, only to have God intervene and substitute a ram (or lamb) instead,” said Omid Safi, professor of Islamic studies at Duke University.
The sacrifice as depicted in the Quran, the Islamic holy text, has similarities to what’s in the Bible, though according to most Muslims, Abraham is asked by God to sacrifice his son Ishmael, not Isaac.
Today, goats, lambs and cows, are sacrificed to mark the occasion. While there are Muslims who engage in this practice in the U.S., Khalil said, some Muslims will work with a company to pay for meat to be distributed in other countries where there is a great need.
The meat from the animals sacrificed is shared with the community and food banks in areas where there are impoverished or food-insecure Muslims, said Anna Bigelow, associate professor of religious studies at Stanford University.
How is the holiday celebrated?
Celebrations often include spending time with friends and family, wearing new attire and giving gifts. Khalil says there is usually a big communal religious ceremony or service, which includes a prayer and a sermon.
In commemorating the story of Abraham, Muslims practice the act of Udhiya (or Qurbani), which involves a sacrifice and distributing meat to the needy and family members.
In certain countries or regions, there are dishes and special desserts made to celebrate.
A "Super Eid" celebration is planned for July 9 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, which will mark the first time the event has been hosted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Attendance is expected to eclipse the more than 30,000 people who attended in 2018, which could make it the largest Eid al-Adha celebration in the western hemisphere, Imam Asad Zaman, Executive Director of the Muslim American Society of Minnesota, told MPR News.
Natalie Neysa Alund covers trending news for USA TODAY.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ei ... 46558.html
Eid al-Adha 2022: When is the Muslim holiday observed in the US and how is it celebrated?
Sudiksha Kochi, Jordan Culver and Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY
Thu, July 7, 2022 at 5:00 AM
Millions of Muslims worldwide this week will celebrate Eid al-Adha, an Islamic religious festival commemorating Prophet Abraham's faithfulness to God after being tested with the unfulfilled command to sacrifice his son.
The holiday also marks the end of the yearly Hajj pilgrimage. It is different from Eid al-Fitr, another major Muslim holiday celebrated each May to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Eid is a three-day celebration in Muslim-majority countries. But in the United States, it's generally observed on one day.
In the United States, most Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Adha starting July 9 by visiting mosques and hosting large community gatherings. In other countries, celebrations take place at different times.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Mohammad Hassan Khalil, a professor of religious studies and director of the Muslim studies program at Michigan State University, said Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar.
It is also celebrated during the annual Holy Pilgrimage of Hajj, in which thousands of Muslims travel to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia to worship in the Ka'bah, the most sacred site in Islam.
Khalil says that the day of celebration is determined by the sighting of a new crescent moon at night. If people spot it, this indicates a new month.
What is al-Adha?
“Al-Adha” refers to sacrifice, specifically the “one in which Abraham was asked – as a test – by God to sacrifice his son, only to have God intervene and substitute a ram (or lamb) instead,” said Omid Safi, professor of Islamic studies at Duke University.
The sacrifice as depicted in the Quran, the Islamic holy text, has similarities to what’s in the Bible, though according to most Muslims, Abraham is asked by God to sacrifice his son Ishmael, not Isaac.
Today, goats, lambs and cows, are sacrificed to mark the occasion. While there are Muslims who engage in this practice in the U.S., Khalil said, some Muslims will work with a company to pay for meat to be distributed in other countries where there is a great need.
The meat from the animals sacrificed is shared with the community and food banks in areas where there are impoverished or food-insecure Muslims, said Anna Bigelow, associate professor of religious studies at Stanford University.
How is the holiday celebrated?
Celebrations often include spending time with friends and family, wearing new attire and giving gifts. Khalil says there is usually a big communal religious ceremony or service, which includes a prayer and a sermon.
In commemorating the story of Abraham, Muslims practice the act of Udhiya (or Qurbani), which involves a sacrifice and distributing meat to the needy and family members.
In certain countries or regions, there are dishes and special desserts made to celebrate.
A "Super Eid" celebration is planned for July 9 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, which will mark the first time the event has been hosted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Attendance is expected to eclipse the more than 30,000 people who attended in 2018, which could make it the largest Eid al-Adha celebration in the western hemisphere, Imam Asad Zaman, Executive Director of the Muslim American Society of Minnesota, told MPR News.
Natalie Neysa Alund covers trending news for USA TODAY.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ei ... 46558.html
Re: EID MUBARAK
BBC
Eid in Madagascar: Zebus, dumplings and samosas
Sat, July 9, 2022 at 7:10 AM
Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Adha, which means Festival of the Sacrifice. It often involves sacrificing an animal to commemorate the time the Prophet Ibrahim is believed to have passed a remarkable test of faith.
He was ordered by Allah to sacrifice his son - and as he was about to do so, the boy was exchanged for a ram.
South African photographer Shiraaz Mohamed was in Madagascar a few years ago during Eid al-Adha. He captured how a small Muslim community on the Indian Ocean island celebrated one of the most important holidays in Islam.
The day before the festival I wanted to find a place to perform my Eid prayers, and drove around the southern coastal tourist town looking for a mosque, discovering a small one with a sign on the door advertising the five daily prayer times.
When I got out to investigate, someone was quick to say hello and make a phone call to the imam, Isoffa Mouhidine Tovo, who within minutes came to welcome me.
I was overwhelmed by the hospitality of those around me.
An old man sat outside his small home watching children play. He eventually went inside where he was later seen reading the Quran. Little children, curious to see who this stranger was, stared at me. Some were shy and giggled.
Two girls pose for a photograph as an old man read Quran in his home in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
I asked permission to take a few photographs and started clicking away.
There was an air of expectation, it being the day before Eid, which falls on the anniversary of the day the Prophet Muhammad gave his farewell sermon on Mount Arafat near Mecca towards the end of his life.
Imam Tovo said that the prophet fasted on this day, known as the Day of Arafat, and Muslims in Fort Dauphin keep with the tradition.
Muslims are also encouraged to seek repentance, which the imam said would allow their sins over the last year to be erased.
Almost everyone I met in the mainly Muslim seaside district was observing a fast, including some of the older children.
But the smell of food was everywhere. In the various small houses people were busy cooking for the big day ahead.
This included sweet dumplings being deep-fried by this family.
Dishes were being cooked over coal fires - this girl carried a sack of coal to be used by her family.
On the day of Eid, just after sunrise, the small mosque filled with worshippers. According to Imam Tovo, he has about 450 people in his congregation. He says the total Muslim population of Fort Dauphin is around 1,000.
Local estimates put the Muslim population of the whole island at between 15% and 25% - mainly living in coastal areas.
"In Madagascar we do not have problems in religion. We all live in peace," the imam told me.
After the Eid prayer, worshippers gathered outside on the street, dressed in their best outfits - greeting each other.
Young and old in their best clothing after Eid prayers in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
The streets looked amazing, filled with an array of different colors.
It was then time to prepare the animals for slaughter.
Madagascar is known for its zebu - the horned, humped cattle are seen all over the island and are a symbol of wealth, though many died in last year's drought.
The men shepherded some zebu, goats and sheep down the street to an empty piece of land with breath-taking views of the ocean.
This is where the sacrifice would take place.
I stood fascinated, wondering how they were going to drop such huge animals to the ground.
Then it all made sense as I watched the men take a piece of rope and tie it around the horns of the zebu while another was tied around one of its hooves.
Men tugged on the ropes while another pulled on the animal's tail, immobilising it. Once it was on the ground, its neck was held down before it was slaughtered.
The price of a zebu currently varies from between $285 (£240) and $305 (£255) - and sheep and goats each cost between $30 and $40.
When I caught up with imam Tovo by phone this week, he said the community had been affected by the drought - some young children had died of malnutrition - and many could not afford to buy their own animals for Eid.
Like elsewhere in the world, they have also been hit by price increases for basic necessities, and unemployment.
But he said that as is traditional at this time of the year, some animals are sponsored so the meat can be shared in the community.
"Meat is shared amongst the poor and the Muslim community. Even if there is no meat we thank Allah, poor or not," the imam said.
During my visit I had to leave after witnessing the sacrifice of two zebu. The imam said the rest of the day would be filled with visits to friends and relatives.
"Sometimes we organise Quran competitions for the young people," he added.
Food is a huge part of the day and common Malagasy dishes include rice mixed with meat and vegetables, various bread and sweet dishes called "godrogodro" - a coconut vanilla spice cake.
Another specialty is the samosa - known locally as a "samboza" - small triangular pastries filled with beef or vegetables.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ma ... 59627.html
Eid in Madagascar: Zebus, dumplings and samosas
Sat, July 9, 2022 at 7:10 AM
Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Adha, which means Festival of the Sacrifice. It often involves sacrificing an animal to commemorate the time the Prophet Ibrahim is believed to have passed a remarkable test of faith.
He was ordered by Allah to sacrifice his son - and as he was about to do so, the boy was exchanged for a ram.
South African photographer Shiraaz Mohamed was in Madagascar a few years ago during Eid al-Adha. He captured how a small Muslim community on the Indian Ocean island celebrated one of the most important holidays in Islam.
The day before the festival I wanted to find a place to perform my Eid prayers, and drove around the southern coastal tourist town looking for a mosque, discovering a small one with a sign on the door advertising the five daily prayer times.
When I got out to investigate, someone was quick to say hello and make a phone call to the imam, Isoffa Mouhidine Tovo, who within minutes came to welcome me.
I was overwhelmed by the hospitality of those around me.
An old man sat outside his small home watching children play. He eventually went inside where he was later seen reading the Quran. Little children, curious to see who this stranger was, stared at me. Some were shy and giggled.
Two girls pose for a photograph as an old man read Quran in his home in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
I asked permission to take a few photographs and started clicking away.
There was an air of expectation, it being the day before Eid, which falls on the anniversary of the day the Prophet Muhammad gave his farewell sermon on Mount Arafat near Mecca towards the end of his life.
Imam Tovo said that the prophet fasted on this day, known as the Day of Arafat, and Muslims in Fort Dauphin keep with the tradition.
Muslims are also encouraged to seek repentance, which the imam said would allow their sins over the last year to be erased.
Almost everyone I met in the mainly Muslim seaside district was observing a fast, including some of the older children.
But the smell of food was everywhere. In the various small houses people were busy cooking for the big day ahead.
This included sweet dumplings being deep-fried by this family.
Dishes were being cooked over coal fires - this girl carried a sack of coal to be used by her family.
On the day of Eid, just after sunrise, the small mosque filled with worshippers. According to Imam Tovo, he has about 450 people in his congregation. He says the total Muslim population of Fort Dauphin is around 1,000.
Local estimates put the Muslim population of the whole island at between 15% and 25% - mainly living in coastal areas.
"In Madagascar we do not have problems in religion. We all live in peace," the imam told me.
After the Eid prayer, worshippers gathered outside on the street, dressed in their best outfits - greeting each other.
Young and old in their best clothing after Eid prayers in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
The streets looked amazing, filled with an array of different colors.
It was then time to prepare the animals for slaughter.
Madagascar is known for its zebu - the horned, humped cattle are seen all over the island and are a symbol of wealth, though many died in last year's drought.
The men shepherded some zebu, goats and sheep down the street to an empty piece of land with breath-taking views of the ocean.
This is where the sacrifice would take place.
I stood fascinated, wondering how they were going to drop such huge animals to the ground.
Then it all made sense as I watched the men take a piece of rope and tie it around the horns of the zebu while another was tied around one of its hooves.
Men tugged on the ropes while another pulled on the animal's tail, immobilising it. Once it was on the ground, its neck was held down before it was slaughtered.
The price of a zebu currently varies from between $285 (£240) and $305 (£255) - and sheep and goats each cost between $30 and $40.
When I caught up with imam Tovo by phone this week, he said the community had been affected by the drought - some young children had died of malnutrition - and many could not afford to buy their own animals for Eid.
Like elsewhere in the world, they have also been hit by price increases for basic necessities, and unemployment.
But he said that as is traditional at this time of the year, some animals are sponsored so the meat can be shared in the community.
"Meat is shared amongst the poor and the Muslim community. Even if there is no meat we thank Allah, poor or not," the imam said.
During my visit I had to leave after witnessing the sacrifice of two zebu. The imam said the rest of the day would be filled with visits to friends and relatives.
"Sometimes we organise Quran competitions for the young people," he added.
Food is a huge part of the day and common Malagasy dishes include rice mixed with meat and vegetables, various bread and sweet dishes called "godrogodro" - a coconut vanilla spice cake.
Another specialty is the samosa - known locally as a "samboza" - small triangular pastries filled with beef or vegetables.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ma ... 59627.html
Re: EID MUBARAK
The Hill
Bidens wish Muslims celebrating Eid al-Adha ‘a joyous holiday’
Caroline Vakil
Sat, July 9, 2022 at 4:15 PM
President Biden said on Saturday that he and first lady Jill Biden wished “a joyous holiday” to Muslims in the United States and around the world who are observing the holiday of Eid al-Adha.
“Jill and I send our warmest greetings to Muslims across the United States and around the world celebrating Eid al-Adha. The Eid traditions and Hajj rituals that commemorate the devotion of Abraham and his son to God are an opportunity for Muslims to renew their faith, and a reminder of the common roots of the world’s great Abrahamic religions,” Biden said in a statement.
“And the act of sharing the sacrifice with those less fortunate in service of God mirrors our common commitment to work together to meet the challenges of our world today.”
Biden also touted the progress that the U.S. and the rest of the world has made in battling the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that Muslims would be able to make the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
“It’s a symbol of the progress we have made in fighting this pandemic and of all work we must still do to strengthen our recovery,” the president said.
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” honors a story told in the Quran of how Ibrahim demonstrates his obedience to God by his willingness to kill his son, Ismail. In the story, God ultimately stops Ibrahim from killing his son by offering him a ram to use instead.
The holiday features slaughtering livestock, meat from which is then shared amongst the poor, friends and family. It also features the hajj trek to the holy city of Mecca, which takes place each year and which Muslims are supposed to complete at least one time.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/bi ... 12971.html
Bidens wish Muslims celebrating Eid al-Adha ‘a joyous holiday’
Caroline Vakil
Sat, July 9, 2022 at 4:15 PM
President Biden said on Saturday that he and first lady Jill Biden wished “a joyous holiday” to Muslims in the United States and around the world who are observing the holiday of Eid al-Adha.
“Jill and I send our warmest greetings to Muslims across the United States and around the world celebrating Eid al-Adha. The Eid traditions and Hajj rituals that commemorate the devotion of Abraham and his son to God are an opportunity for Muslims to renew their faith, and a reminder of the common roots of the world’s great Abrahamic religions,” Biden said in a statement.
“And the act of sharing the sacrifice with those less fortunate in service of God mirrors our common commitment to work together to meet the challenges of our world today.”
Biden also touted the progress that the U.S. and the rest of the world has made in battling the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that Muslims would be able to make the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
“It’s a symbol of the progress we have made in fighting this pandemic and of all work we must still do to strengthen our recovery,” the president said.
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” honors a story told in the Quran of how Ibrahim demonstrates his obedience to God by his willingness to kill his son, Ismail. In the story, God ultimately stops Ibrahim from killing his son by offering him a ram to use instead.
The holiday features slaughtering livestock, meat from which is then shared amongst the poor, friends and family. It also features the hajj trek to the holy city of Mecca, which takes place each year and which Muslims are supposed to complete at least one time.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/bi ... 12971.html
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mahebubchatur
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EID AL ADHA MUBARAK 2023
“This week, alongside our sisters and brothers in Islam, we commemorate Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. The occasion recalls the monotheistic ethos at the heart of the Abrahamic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
It was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah spared the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him). In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.”
On Eid al-Adha, we remember Hazrat Ibrahim’s sacrifice and unyielding devotion, and we also reflect upon the complete trust he had in his Creator. Indeed, complete trust in Allah is modeled through many examples of the Prophets.
The young Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him and his family) who faced life as an orphan, and later, as the Prophet of Islam, was forced to migrate to safety due to constant threats to his life. Still, he was steadfast in his faith in Allah. Such complete reliance on Allah is called tawakkul, a concept we refer to in our prayers when we recite: tawwakaltu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) I rely upon you.
In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust in Him. In Surah al-Maida, Ayat 23, Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” However, this reliance does not imply that we should not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties. We must do our best, while trusting that the outcome will be what Allah deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is reciprocal. In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
In Muslim belief, Prophet Muhammad was the last and final in the line of Allah's Messengers. According to Shia belief, tradition and interpretation of history, the authority for guidance devolved upon his cousin and son-in-law Hazrat Ali and vests thereafter in the Imams in the progeny of Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima, the Prophet's daughter (peace be upon them and their family).
Eid al-Adha also celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the Ahl al-Kitab – the People of the Book. At a speech made in Houston, USA in June 2002, Mawlana Hazar Imam said:
“The shared destiny of the ethos of the Abrahamic tradition that unites Christians, Jews and Muslims is governed by the duty of loving care to help nurture each life that is born to its God-given potential.”
Today, each time we greet one another with “Eid Mubarak,” let us remember the important message of trust in Allah.
Let us continue to strengthen that bond through devotion to our Imam-of-the-Time.
The Ismaili wishes you a joyous and heartfelt Eid Mubarak! (TheIsmaili)
More at
https://ask.ismailignosis.com/article/1 ... adha-tawil
Eid Al Adha Mubarak
A celebration and reflection of Hazrat Ibrahim’s faith unyielding devotion, and his complete trust & faith in Allah, and his willingness to sacrifice his Son to Allah, who Allah saved.
This was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah saved the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him).
In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.
The faith and trust that we have in Allah and Imam e Zaman is reciprocal.
In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
(O Prophet) Indeed those who give you their allegiance, they give it but to Allah himself, Allah's hand is upon their hands. Then he-who breaks it, he
certainly breaks it against himself, and he who fulfills what he has pledged with Allah, Allah will reward him in plenty.” ( Ismaili daily Dua Part 4) - Quran 48:10
It was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah spared the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him). In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.”
On Eid al-Adha, we remember Hazrat Ibrahim’s sacrifice and unyielding devotion, and we also reflect upon the complete trust he had in his Creator. Indeed, complete trust in Allah is modeled through many examples of the Prophets.
The young Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him and his family) who faced life as an orphan, and later, as the Prophet of Islam, was forced to migrate to safety due to constant threats to his life. Still, he was steadfast in his faith in Allah. Such complete reliance on Allah is called tawakkul, a concept we refer to in our prayers when we recite: tawwakaltu ‘alayka, which means: (O Allah) I rely upon you.
In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us time and again to put our complete trust in Him. In Surah al-Maida, Ayat 23, Allah says: “And put your complete trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” However, this reliance does not imply that we should not apply our intellect and make efforts to overcome our difficulties. We must do our best, while trusting that the outcome will be what Allah deems to be most appropriate.
The trust that we have in Allah is reciprocal. In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
In Muslim belief, Prophet Muhammad was the last and final in the line of Allah's Messengers. According to Shia belief, tradition and interpretation of history, the authority for guidance devolved upon his cousin and son-in-law Hazrat Ali and vests thereafter in the Imams in the progeny of Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima, the Prophet's daughter (peace be upon them and their family).
Eid al-Adha also celebrates the common humanity and ethical heritage shared by the Ahl al-Kitab – the People of the Book. At a speech made in Houston, USA in June 2002, Mawlana Hazar Imam said:
“The shared destiny of the ethos of the Abrahamic tradition that unites Christians, Jews and Muslims is governed by the duty of loving care to help nurture each life that is born to its God-given potential.”
Today, each time we greet one another with “Eid Mubarak,” let us remember the important message of trust in Allah.
Let us continue to strengthen that bond through devotion to our Imam-of-the-Time.
The Ismaili wishes you a joyous and heartfelt Eid Mubarak! (TheIsmaili)
More at
https://ask.ismailignosis.com/article/1 ... adha-tawil
Eid Al Adha Mubarak
A celebration and reflection of Hazrat Ibrahim’s faith unyielding devotion, and his complete trust & faith in Allah, and his willingness to sacrifice his Son to Allah, who Allah saved.
This was, in Judeo-Christian-Muslim tradition, a test of the faith of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son when in a recurring dream, he was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. However, at the ultimate moment of the sacrificial act, Allah saved the life of his son, who is believed by most Muslims to be Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him).
In Surah as-Saffat, Ayat 104 and 105 of the Qur’an, Allah says:
“We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have already fulfilled the vision’ - thus indeed we reward the righteous... indeed this was a manifest trial.
The faith and trust that we have in Allah and Imam e Zaman is reciprocal.
In a Hadith al-Qudsi, narrated by Prophet Muhammad, Allah says:
“He who draws close to Me a hand’s span, I will draw close to him an arm’s length. And whoever draws near Me an arm’s length, I will draw near him a fathom’s length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I will go to him running.”
(O Prophet) Indeed those who give you their allegiance, they give it but to Allah himself, Allah's hand is upon their hands. Then he-who breaks it, he
certainly breaks it against himself, and he who fulfills what he has pledged with Allah, Allah will reward him in plenty.” ( Ismaili daily Dua Part 4) - Quran 48:10
A Tiny, Wonderful Rebellion Against the Tyranny of Time Has Begun
The Islamic calendar is lunar, not solar.Credit...Adrian Gaut/Trunk Archive
I always struggle to explain Eid al-Adha. It’s not just the story of the holiday that’s inaccessible to your average American — at its meaty core is a tale of animal slaughter — but also its timeline. I explain that the holiday commemorates how willing a prophet was to sacrifice anything for God — including his own son. (Spoiler alert: He lives.)
So when is it? Someone always asks.
Well, we don’t know, I answer.
The Islamic calendar is lunar. The beginning of each month is determined by the sighting of a new moon. That is fundamentally at odds with the solar calendar that Pope Gregory XIII helped spread across the planet hundreds of years ago. As a result, Muslim holidays fall on a different spot on the Gregorian calendar every year.
This makes Eid al-Adha difficult to plan for. But the spontaneity can also make celebrating it feel a little giddy, in the same way that taking a random personal day or heading out the door with no clear destination can. Depending on where you live, Eid al-Adha celebrations could involve slaughtering a goat, making a donation to charity or attending morning prayers. For me, it’s an occasion to get together with loved ones. Celebrating Eid whenever it comes, whether the timing is convenient or not, is a small refusal to be governed — by our workplaces, of course, but also by all the systems that regulate us.
We live in a world where our experience of time is inextricably bound up with work, and often in hyper regimented ways. Some preindustrial cultures, the historian E.P. Thompson wrote, measured their day by tasks, like how long it takes to cook rice. Now it’s measured for us by our employers.
We might sneak life in on the weekends, in the evenings. We might sneak a little bit more life in on vacations — often meticulously planned months in advance, around the preferences and requirements of our workplace — or on federally recognized holidays. (And without labor movements, we probably wouldn’t even have some of those concessions.) In a world where only the privileged have the freedom to organize their time, the celebration of a floating holiday becomes a mini-rebellion.
Religion means many different things to many different people, but for me, that view resonates with some bigger subversive — if not straight-up anticapitalist — ideas in Islam as a whole. Take the mandate to pay a percentage of your earnings every year to those in need. It’s a great reminder that whoever dies with the most toys does not, in fact, win. Also, many Muslims believe that charging or receiving interest is haram, or forbidden.
On a one-to-one basis, opting out of something that feels exploitative is a way to honor one another’s humanity. Scale it up, however, and it pretty quickly becomes a challenge to the system responsible for global financial crises and widespread suffering, under which average citizens pay to bail out billionaires — both on land and in the depths of the ocean — while struggling to keep their own heads above water.
When you are a Muslim in America, you have many opportunities to consider the difference between your beliefs and those of the people around you. Taking time off to celebrate Eid al-Adha (or its sister holiday, Eid al-Fitr, which ends Ramadan) is one such opportunity. So is the beginning of Ramadan itself, the holy month during which many Muslims try to juggle fasting days and praying nights with regular work. Managing these obligations and the sacrifices they compel is a challenge that registers on a bodily level.
There are no Muslim federal holidays in the United States. Yes, it’s nice for presidents to wax poetic about how Eid al-Fitr “marks a new beginning for each individual.” But for Muslims who can’t afford or aren’t allowed to miss a day of work, Eid is just the “new beginning” of another eight-hour shift.
Every year, I decide on the fly whether to take the day off. In college, I worried about missing exams that would be a nightmare to reschedule. In workplaces, I worried about asking on relatively short notice.
Dozens of cities have recently worked to recognize Eid. Last year, Dearborn, Mich., became the first city in the United States to make Eid al-Fitr a paid day off for municipal employees. In 2015, New York added both Eids to the public school calendar. That battle was hard-fought, and personal to me.
For context, I grew up in Astoria, Queens, one of the most diverse neighborhoods not just in New York City but in the entire country. My elementary school had so many Muslim students that we would decorate for Eid. Despite all of the shiny dollar-store crescent moons strung along the banisters, when the actual day rolled around, school was technically in session. I’m sure it was one of the year’s lowest attendance days.
Every year, Eid al-Adha catches me by surprise. Unlike my ancestors, I do not have a conscious connection with the moon. I could not tell you where we are in its cycle. I do not know how its light moves through space, where it goes. Except for the occasional Muslim holiday, my time is no longer organized by a community of people looking above.
I find out when Eid is because my parents shoot me a text. And then it’s an opportunity to look up from the daily hustle. It’s a reminder, if not a suggestion: Maybe the schedule I think about every day isn’t the most important one. Maybe I’m also on another calendar, on a different timeline. In a different year entirely. I have all day to think about it.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/28/opin ... 778d3e6de3
Re: EID MUBARAK
AFP
Hajj disasters: stampedes, infernos and a bloody siege
Thu, June 22, 2023 at 11:31 PM CDT
It is Islam's holiest pilgrimage, but the hajj to Mecca in Saudi Arabia has in recent decades been plagued by deadly disasters, from stampedes to militant attacks.
Yet the last time the pilgrimage was cancelled outright was in 1798, when Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt.
The coronavirus pandemic did, however, force the kingdom to radically downscale the 2020 event to just a few thousand people, a far cry from the 2.5 million believers who took part in 2019.
The numbers were scaled back up to 926,000 in 2022, but this year the kingdom is gearing up to host more than two million Muslims from around the world for the rituals that start on Sunday.
Here are some recent incidents that have marred the centuries-old pilgrimage:
- Stampedes -
2015 - A stampede during the "stoning of the devil" ritual in Mina, near Mecca, kills up to 2,300 worshippers on September 24 in the worst hajj disaster ever.
That comes after more than 100 people are killed and hundreds injured, including many foreigners, when stormy weather topples a crane onto Mecca's Grand Mosque less than two weeks before the pilgrimage.
2006 - Some 364 pilgrims die in a stampede on January 12 during the Mina stoning ritual, in which hajj participants throw pebbles at three headstones to symbolize their rejection of Satan.
This follows a hotel collapse a week earlier in the city centre, which kills 76 people.
The previous year, three pilgrims are crushed to death in a stampede on January 22 at the stoning ceremony.
2004 - 251 people die after a huge stampede at the stoning ceremony on February 1.
1998 - More than 118 people are killed and 180 injured in a stampede in Mina on April 9.
1994 - During the Mina stoning on May 24, a stampede kills 270 people, with authorities blaming "record numbers" of pilgrims.
1990 - The failure of a tunnel ventilation system triggers a huge stampede on July 2 that kills 1,426 pilgrims, mainly from Asia.
- Attacks -
1989 - A twin attack on the outside of the Grand Mosque on July 10 kills one and wounds 16. Weeks later, 16 Kuwaiti Shiites are found guilty and executed.
1979 - Hundreds of gunmen calling for the abdication of the Saudi royal family barricade themselves inside Mecca's Grand Mosque on November 20, taking dozens of pilgrims hostage. The official toll of the assault and subsequent fighting is 153 dead and 560 wounded.
- Protests -
1987 - Saudi security forces suppress an unauthorised protest by Iranian pilgrims on July 31 in which more than 400 people including 275 Iranians are killed, according to an official toll.
- Infernos -
1997 - A fire on April 15 caused by a gas stove rips through a camp housing pilgrims at Mina, killing 343 and injuring around 1,500.
1995 - Three people die and 99 are injured on May 7 in a fire at the Mina camp.
1975 - A huge fire on December 14 started by an exploding gas canister in a pilgrim camp close to Mecca kills 200 people.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ha ... 36417.html
Hajj disasters: stampedes, infernos and a bloody siege
Thu, June 22, 2023 at 11:31 PM CDT
It is Islam's holiest pilgrimage, but the hajj to Mecca in Saudi Arabia has in recent decades been plagued by deadly disasters, from stampedes to militant attacks.
Yet the last time the pilgrimage was cancelled outright was in 1798, when Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt.
The coronavirus pandemic did, however, force the kingdom to radically downscale the 2020 event to just a few thousand people, a far cry from the 2.5 million believers who took part in 2019.
The numbers were scaled back up to 926,000 in 2022, but this year the kingdom is gearing up to host more than two million Muslims from around the world for the rituals that start on Sunday.
Here are some recent incidents that have marred the centuries-old pilgrimage:
- Stampedes -
2015 - A stampede during the "stoning of the devil" ritual in Mina, near Mecca, kills up to 2,300 worshippers on September 24 in the worst hajj disaster ever.
That comes after more than 100 people are killed and hundreds injured, including many foreigners, when stormy weather topples a crane onto Mecca's Grand Mosque less than two weeks before the pilgrimage.
2006 - Some 364 pilgrims die in a stampede on January 12 during the Mina stoning ritual, in which hajj participants throw pebbles at three headstones to symbolize their rejection of Satan.
This follows a hotel collapse a week earlier in the city centre, which kills 76 people.
The previous year, three pilgrims are crushed to death in a stampede on January 22 at the stoning ceremony.
2004 - 251 people die after a huge stampede at the stoning ceremony on February 1.
1998 - More than 118 people are killed and 180 injured in a stampede in Mina on April 9.
1994 - During the Mina stoning on May 24, a stampede kills 270 people, with authorities blaming "record numbers" of pilgrims.
1990 - The failure of a tunnel ventilation system triggers a huge stampede on July 2 that kills 1,426 pilgrims, mainly from Asia.
- Attacks -
1989 - A twin attack on the outside of the Grand Mosque on July 10 kills one and wounds 16. Weeks later, 16 Kuwaiti Shiites are found guilty and executed.
1979 - Hundreds of gunmen calling for the abdication of the Saudi royal family barricade themselves inside Mecca's Grand Mosque on November 20, taking dozens of pilgrims hostage. The official toll of the assault and subsequent fighting is 153 dead and 560 wounded.
- Protests -
1987 - Saudi security forces suppress an unauthorised protest by Iranian pilgrims on July 31 in which more than 400 people including 275 Iranians are killed, according to an official toll.
- Infernos -
1997 - A fire on April 15 caused by a gas stove rips through a camp housing pilgrims at Mina, killing 343 and injuring around 1,500.
1995 - Three people die and 99 are injured on May 7 in a fire at the Mina camp.
1975 - A huge fire on December 14 started by an exploding gas canister in a pilgrim camp close to Mecca kills 200 people.
https://currently.att.yahoo.com/news/ha ... 36417.html
Re: EID MUBARAK
In the spirit of Eid al-Fitr, a time of joy, unity, and spiritual rejuvenation, Zulfiqar Ali Jessani and his team are delighted to present a qawwali video that is a heartfelt ode to the venerable Imam Ali (A.S).
Imam Ali (A.S) is regarded a guiding light and intercessor in the Islamic faith within the Shia tradition but his esteemed legacy resonates deeply across the whole Muslim community. This piece, rich in devotion and admiration, aims to capture the profound respect and love for Imam Ali (A.S), reflecting on his unparalleled virtues and contributions.
The soul-stirring lyrics crafted by Zulfiqar Ali Jessani find their voice in the passionate vocals of Saleem J. Tejani, whose performance embodies the qawwali's traditional vibrancy and spiritual intensity. Companion performers are Nizar Shoukat Ali, Afaq Ali Khowaja, Madad Ali Khowaja, Danish R Areshia, Chand Ejaz, and Kamran Sukhiyani.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3x0VJzyp95U
Re: EID MUBARAK
How the Solar Eclipse Affected Eid Timing
Some Muslim communities rely on a centuries-old method to determine when Ramadan ends: a crescent moon. That method was harder to follow this year.
Indonesian Muslims in Gresik, Java, use a telescope to see the new crescent moon and determine the end of Ramadan.Credit...Robertus Pudyanto/Getty Images
For centuries, the sighting of a crescent moon has signaled the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fast and prayer for Muslims.
This year, the sight was obscured in some parts of the world by the sun’s glare during the total solar eclipse, delaying some Islamic communities’ declaration of Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of the fast. Although only a narrow band of North America experienced a total eclipse, the phenomenon reduced lunar visibility elsewhere, experts said.
In Kerala, a state in southern India, the new moon was spotted on Tuesday, but it was not seen in the capital of New Delhi, so Muslim communities in India will celebrate Eid one day apart.
In Saudi Arabia, an authority on religious observances for many Muslims, the government called on all Muslims throughout the kingdom to look for the crescent moon on Monday. When it was not reported seen, the Supreme Court declared on Tuesday that Eid would be celebrated beginning on Wednesday.
Countries with large populations of Muslims, and Muslims around the world, use the traditional Hijri calendar to mark religious events. Each month of that calendar begins with the sighting of the early crescent moon, and the holy month of Ramadan begins at the start of the ninth month.
Eid is traditionally celebrated the day after a new moon is seen, either with the naked eye or a telescope. According to the European Council for Fatwa and Research, the moon must appear at sunset, at least five degrees above the horizon.
Because the crescent moon can be difficult to see, and its position above the horizon can be hard to independently calculate, some Muslim communities rely instead on a computational method, according to Basharat Saleem, executive director of the Islamic Society of North America.
“In the old days, and still in some parts of the world, people would do moon-sighting, look to be able to visually see it,” Mr. Saleem said. “Nowadays with calculations and precise measurements, it has become easier.”
These customs go back centuries. But the exact period of Ramadan varies from place to place because it depends on a range of factors, including who observes the moon and how, and whether the sky is clear or cloudy at the time.
While some Muslim communities rely on the sighting of the moon, others use a lunar calendar to determine when Ramadan begins and ends.
The Islamic Society of North America, a nonprofit based in Plainfield, Ind., and one of the largest Islamic organizations in the United States, follows NASA’s lunar calendar, which means celebrating Eid on Wednesday, too.
Image
A dark circle, the moon, covers the sun, and a thin halo of light surrounds its edges.
The full solar eclipse seen in Indianapolis on Monday.Credit...Jamie Kelter Davis for The New York Times
“We know the moon is visible without having to see it,” said Muhammad Safder, a member of the board of Masjid al-Taqwa in Indianapolis, a city that fell in the eclipse’s narrow path of totality on Monday.
As Central Indiana plunged into darkness during the solar eclipse, Mr. Safder and about 60 others entered the mosque for a special prayer.
According to the Hadith, the sacred Islamic text, there was an eclipse around the death of the Prophet Muhammad’s son, Ibrahim.
The prophet reassured followers that the eclipse had not caused Ibrahim’s death, but was simply a “miracle of God” for which he recommended a prayer, Mr. Safder said.
“It was kind of dark all of a sudden,” Mr. Safder said of the eclipse. “As we finished praying, it seemed like the morning was starting. It was spiritually uplifting, especially while fasting.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/09/worl ... 778d3e6de3
Some Muslim communities rely on a centuries-old method to determine when Ramadan ends: a crescent moon. That method was harder to follow this year.
Indonesian Muslims in Gresik, Java, use a telescope to see the new crescent moon and determine the end of Ramadan.Credit...Robertus Pudyanto/Getty Images
For centuries, the sighting of a crescent moon has signaled the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fast and prayer for Muslims.
This year, the sight was obscured in some parts of the world by the sun’s glare during the total solar eclipse, delaying some Islamic communities’ declaration of Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of the fast. Although only a narrow band of North America experienced a total eclipse, the phenomenon reduced lunar visibility elsewhere, experts said.
In Kerala, a state in southern India, the new moon was spotted on Tuesday, but it was not seen in the capital of New Delhi, so Muslim communities in India will celebrate Eid one day apart.
In Saudi Arabia, an authority on religious observances for many Muslims, the government called on all Muslims throughout the kingdom to look for the crescent moon on Monday. When it was not reported seen, the Supreme Court declared on Tuesday that Eid would be celebrated beginning on Wednesday.
Countries with large populations of Muslims, and Muslims around the world, use the traditional Hijri calendar to mark religious events. Each month of that calendar begins with the sighting of the early crescent moon, and the holy month of Ramadan begins at the start of the ninth month.
Eid is traditionally celebrated the day after a new moon is seen, either with the naked eye or a telescope. According to the European Council for Fatwa and Research, the moon must appear at sunset, at least five degrees above the horizon.
Because the crescent moon can be difficult to see, and its position above the horizon can be hard to independently calculate, some Muslim communities rely instead on a computational method, according to Basharat Saleem, executive director of the Islamic Society of North America.
“In the old days, and still in some parts of the world, people would do moon-sighting, look to be able to visually see it,” Mr. Saleem said. “Nowadays with calculations and precise measurements, it has become easier.”
These customs go back centuries. But the exact period of Ramadan varies from place to place because it depends on a range of factors, including who observes the moon and how, and whether the sky is clear or cloudy at the time.
While some Muslim communities rely on the sighting of the moon, others use a lunar calendar to determine when Ramadan begins and ends.
The Islamic Society of North America, a nonprofit based in Plainfield, Ind., and one of the largest Islamic organizations in the United States, follows NASA’s lunar calendar, which means celebrating Eid on Wednesday, too.
Image
A dark circle, the moon, covers the sun, and a thin halo of light surrounds its edges.
The full solar eclipse seen in Indianapolis on Monday.Credit...Jamie Kelter Davis for The New York Times
“We know the moon is visible without having to see it,” said Muhammad Safder, a member of the board of Masjid al-Taqwa in Indianapolis, a city that fell in the eclipse’s narrow path of totality on Monday.
As Central Indiana plunged into darkness during the solar eclipse, Mr. Safder and about 60 others entered the mosque for a special prayer.
According to the Hadith, the sacred Islamic text, there was an eclipse around the death of the Prophet Muhammad’s son, Ibrahim.
The prophet reassured followers that the eclipse had not caused Ibrahim’s death, but was simply a “miracle of God” for which he recommended a prayer, Mr. Safder said.
“It was kind of dark all of a sudden,” Mr. Safder said of the eclipse. “As we finished praying, it seemed like the morning was starting. It was spiritually uplifting, especially while fasting.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/09/worl ... 778d3e6de3