Learn about Islam’s major holidays, including Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Ashura, Qurbani, and Ramadan. Ramadan, or the month of fasting, is the longest holy month and is celebrated by Muslims to remember the prophets’ sacrifices and live by their example. To learn more, read our article. We’ll also explore the history of these holidays. In addition to learning about the holiday’s origins, we’ll discuss their meaning and significance in Islam.
Ramadan
If you’re wondering about Ramadan’s significance in Islam, you’re not alone. In the Muslim world, this month is a holy time. In Islam, the last ten nights of Ramadan are known as the “Night of Decree.” On these nights, Muslims seek mercy, forgiveness, and blessings from Allah. The night is also considered better than a thousand months of life.
The first sighting of the new moon marks the end of the fast, and Muslims will praise Allah for all of His blessings during the month. Many Muslims will fast during the month to express gratitude for the guidance given to them by Allah. Children, for example, will be given new clothes or gifts to mark the end of the fast. The end of Ramadan is a time to reflect on what Allah has done for them and seek forgiveness. Read More…
Eid al-Fitr
If you’re wondering about Eid al-Fitr’s importance in Islam, you’ve come to the right place. In addition to wearing new clothes and sharing sweets, Muslims also gather to visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts. Families may buy each other gifts and go on holiday, while colleagues exchange date-filled pastries and cookies. Even children might receive a special gift.
While the traditions surrounding the festival are quite different from country to country, the underlying theme is family. Early morning prayers are held at mosques, and the day’s events usually feature an outdoor gathering. During Eid, Muslims give zakat, or charity, to less fortunate families. This money helps those families who otherwise may not be able to celebrate Eid, by giving them the opportunity to buy new clothes.
Ashura
Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, falls on Friday, 28 August. It is a very significant day for Muslims, as it commemorates the liberation of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from the Pharaoh. The Quran states that Allah sent the Prophet Musa, who is more often mentioned and narrated than any other prophet. Some people observe fasting on this day to forgive themselves for the sins of the previous year.
In many Sunni countries, the day of Ashura is celebrated in special ways. The poor are given alms by the rich, while the rich purchase gifts for children and the needy. Some people also buy nuts and seeds to scatter on their neighbors, while others splash water from windows and balconies to show the importance of Ashura. The significance of Ashura differs from country to country. There are many books on the subject, including the Encyclopaedia Iranica.
Qurbani
The Qurbani holiday’s significance in Islam is rooted in the story of Abraham, who had dreamed of sacrificing his son. The angel Gabriel came to him and asked him to do so. He agreed, but instead offered up a ram, which he sacrificed to remind him of his obligation to God. This holiday, regarded as the holiest in Islam, has deep significance for Muslims worldwide.
As part of the Qurbani holiday, donations to Islamic charities are often used for Eid al-Adha distribution. The meat is a gift to those in need, and is distributed according to Islamic protocol. Some people who can’t afford to buy meat may receive it for the first time in a year. In addition, donations to Islamic charities allow poor families to enjoy a holiday full of joy and hope.
Shab e Barat
During the month of Shab e Barat, Muslims around the world offer prayers and perform special rituals. The night is considered to be one of the holiest nights in Islam. According to the Quran, on this night, Allah will forgive mankind for their sins. During this night, believers offer 14 Rak’ah Namaz with seven salaams. This night is very special for Muslims because it represents the Holy Prophet’s journey to Jerusalem.
While there are numerous customs and traditions associated with the night of forgiveness, Shab e Barat’s significance for Muslims is profound. Many Muslims gather in mosques to recite the name of Allah. Many Muslims also visit the graves of their deceased family members. Others pray for the peace of their souls. In Bangladesh, people give food to neighbors to commemorate this day. In Indonesia, the night of Shab e Barat is also celebrated as a public holiday.
Naw Ruz
Traditionally, the Naw-Ruz holiday is celebrated in Iran on the date of the spring equinox. Although Naw-Ruz falls on the spring equinox outside of Iran, it is traditionally celebrated on March 21. Many Persians observe the holiday according to the Zoroastrian calendar, so it begins on March 20 at sunset. As the first day of the month Baha, it is a time of spiritual renewal, as well as a religious holiday.
The Nowruz celebration is well attested in Safavid times. During this time, the royal celebration was marked by lavish spending and festive merry-making by wealthy merchants, guild leaders, and scholars. The celebration included merrymaking, plays, and performances by artists. In the hall of mirrors, a large tablecloth was spread with bowls of fruit, sweets, and colored eggs.
