On this day, Muslims in Ukraine and around the world celebrate one of the two main holidays of Islam – Oraza-Bayram (Crimean); The Feast of Breaking the Fast or Eid al-Fitr (Arabic).

The 30-day fast, which lasted during the holy month of Ramadan (Ramazan) for Muslims, ended yesterday. Fasting is considered one of the “pillars of Islam”, as it encourages believers to strengthen their faith, show humility, piety, and care for those in need. According to tradition, during fasting, one cannot speak obscenities, lie, commit deceitful and impious acts, slander, or defame another. During the day, from dawn to sunset, neither drinking, eating, nor smoking is allowed; pleasure and entertainment are prohibited. In addition to the obligatory five-time prayers, every night Muslims additionally perform individual or collective prayers – tarawih. Only travelers, children, and those who cannot observe it for good reasons (sick, pregnant, and postpartum women) are exempt from fasting.

On the day of Eid al-Adha, all the prohibitions of strict fasting are lifted and the time for generous feasts begins. After the morning collective prayer, families gather at a large table with festive dishes. Most of the meal consists of meat products and pastries, which are prepared in advance. Some of the dishes must be given to relatives and the needy. At the same time, it is customary to visit relatives and friends, as well as visit the graves of the deceased. Eid al-Adha is a day of fun and celebration of life, given by the Almighty. Believers greet each other with the wish “Eid mubarak!” (“Blessed holiday!”).

We share the joy and congratulate the Muslims of Ukraine on the holiday of breaking the fast. May Almighty accept your fasting and good deeds. Eid Mubarak! Mazal tov!

Dilfuza Hlushchenko