Eid al-Fitr in Guinea-Bissau ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Eid al-Fitr in Guinea-Bissau and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Eid al-Fitr in Guinea-Bissau and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Eid al-Fitr is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramadan. The day of Eid, therefore, falls on the first day of the month of Shawwal. This is a day when Muslims are not permitted to fast.
The date for the start of any lunar Hijri month varies based on the observation of new moon by local religious authorities, so the exact day of celebration varies by locality. However, in most countries, it is generally observed on the same day as Saudi Arabia.
Eid al-Fitr has a particular Salat (Islamic prayer) consisting of two Rakats (units) and generally offered in an open field or large hall. It may be performed only in congregation (Jama‘at) and has an additional six Takbirs (raising of the hands to the ears while saying “Allāhu Akbar” which means “God is the greatest”), three of them in the beginning of the first Rakat and three of them just before Ruku’ (bowing) in the second Rakat in the Hanafi school of Sunni Islam. Other Sunni schools usually have twelve Takbirs, seven in the first and five at the beginning of the second Rakat. This Eid al-Fitr Salat is, depending on which juristic opinion is followed, Fard (obligatory), Mustahabb (strongly recommended, just short of obligatory) or Mandoob (preferable).
Eid al-Fitr celebrations start after the Salat al-Eid prayer, which can only be performed after the sun has completely risen above the horizon. Eid al-Fitr celebrations traditionally continue for three days.
In Guinea-Bissau, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with special prayers, food and charity. Families and friends get together to celebrate. sweets and snacks are served and gifts are exchanged.