What is Eid Mubarak: Meaning, History & How to Celebrate

What is Eid Mubarak: History, Time and Meaning of Eid Mubarak

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Eid Mubarak is a traditional Muslim greeting during the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha holidays, meaning “Blessed Festival” or “Happy Holiday”.
• This greeting symbolizes joy, gratitude, unity, the spirit of sharing, and forgiveness.
• Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
• Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) commemorates the loyalty of Prophet Ibrahim and emphasizes sharing through the Qurbani ritual.
• The timing of Eid changes annually because it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which is about 10-12 days earlier each year compared to the Gregorian calendar.
• Wishing Eid Mubarak is a gesture of respect and friendliness, warmly received even if you are not Muslim.

Table of Contents

1. What is Eid Mubarak? The Deep Meaning Behind the Greeting
2. History of Eid Mubarak: Origins from Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
   1. Eid al-Fitr: The Festival Marking the End of Ramadan
   2. Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice and Commemoration of Faith
3. When does Eid Mubarak take place during the year? Islamic Calendar and Differences
   1. Timing of Eid al-Fitr
   2. Timing of Eid al-Adha
4. What is the meaning of Eid Mubarak? Spirit and Community
   1. Spiritual Meaning: Gratitude, Repentance, and Strengthening Faith
   2. Community Meaning: Unity, Sharing, and Reconciliation
5. How to Celebrate Eid Mubarak? Greetings and Notes
   1. Traditional and Popular Eid Mubarak Greetings
   2. Notes when Greeting and Participating in Eid Festivals
6. Conclusion: What is Eid Mubarak – More Than Just a Greeting
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Have you ever heard the phrase “Eid Mubarak” and wondered what is Eid Mubarak? This is a warm greeting exchanged by over a billion Muslims around the world, especially during their most significant holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. This greeting is not just a simple phrase but also contains deep cultural and spiritual values.

In this detailed article, we will explore the historical origins, the timing of the Eid festivals, their sacred meaning, and how people congratulate each other using the phrase “Eid Mubarak”. Let’s delve deeper into this meaningful greeting and the beautiful culture of the global Muslim community.

What is Eid Mubarak? The Deep Meaning Behind the Greeting

What is Eid Mubarak? In Arabic, “Eid Mubarak” (عِيد مُبَارَك) means “Blessed Festival” or “Happy Holiday”. This phrase is composed of two main elements:

1. Eid (عِيد): This word means “festival”, “holiday”, or “celebration day”. It refers to special occasions, times of joy and gathering.
2. Mubarak (مُبَارَك): This word means “blessed”, “fortunate”, “good”, or “happy”.

When combined, “Eid Mubarak” becomes the most common greeting that Muslims worldwide use to greet and congratulate each other during the two biggest holidays of the year: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. This greeting encapsulates joy, unity, and deep gratitude towards Allah (God) during these sacred days.

However, Eid Mubarak is not just a social greeting. It is also a powerful symbol of sharing, love, forgiveness, and community bonding in the Muslim world. On these days, people, regardless of wealth or social status, gather together, pray, share meals, and help those less fortunate. The spirit of mutual support is clearly demonstrated, highlighting the core humanitarian values of Islam.

Although “Eid Mubarak” is the most common greeting, depending on local culture and language, Muslims in different countries may use different variations to convey the same meaning:

• Arabic: Besides “Eid Mubarak”, people also use “Eid Sa’id” (Happy holiday).
• Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia: Commonly use “Selamat Hari Raya”, “Selamat Idul Fitri” (for Eid al-Fitr) or “Selamat Idul Adha” (for Eid al-Adha).
• Turkey: Popular is “Bayramınız mübarek olsun” (May your holiday be blessed).
• Iran and Persian-speaking regions: “Eid shoma mobarak”.
• Bosnia: “Bajram Šerif mubarek olsun” (May the noble Bajram be blessed).

Regardless of the expression, all these greetings convey a common message of joy, blessing, and solidarity during the important festivals of Muslims.

History of Eid Mubarak: Origins from Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha

The greeting Eid Mubarak is inseparably linked to the history and origins of the two most important major holidays in the Muslim year: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Each festival carries a unique historical and spiritual meaning, but both are occasions for the Muslim community to express faith and gratitude.

Eid al-Fitr: The Festival Marking the End of Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr, also known as “The Festival of Breaking the Fast”, marks the end of Ramadan – the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is the month when Muslims fast, refraining from eating, drinking, and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset. This is not just physical training but also a time to purify the soul, increase prayer, read the Quran, and perform good deeds.

Fasting during Ramadan helps Muslims:

• Empathize: Understand and sympathize more with the situation of the poor and needy.
• Restrain: Practice self-control, discipline, and control worldly desires.
• Closer to Allah: Spend more time in worship, contemplation, and strengthening the spiritual connection with God.
• Be Grateful: Appreciate the blessings that Allah has bestowed, from the smallest things like food and drink.

After a month of strict adherence to the rules of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr arrives as a reward, a day of joy, gratitude, and celebration for completing a significant religious duty. This is when people gather, perform a special morning prayer, visit family, friends, give gifts to children, and enjoy festive meals together. The greeting “Eid Mubarak” echoes everywhere, expressing the collective joy of the community.

Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice and Commemoration of Faith

Eid al-Adha, or “The Festival of Sacrifice”, is the second major festival and is considered more sacred than Eid al-Fitr. This festival commemorates a momentous event in Islamic history: the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (known as Abraham in Judaism and Christianity) to obey Allah’s command to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (or Isaac according to some other traditions), as a testament to his absolute faith and loyalty.

According to the Quran, when Ibrahim was about to perform the act of sacrifice, Allah intervened and replaced his son with a ram. This act not only tested Ibrahim’s faith but also showed Allah’s boundless mercy.

To commemorate this event, Muslims who are financially able perform the ritual of Qurbani – sacrificing an animal (usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) during the days of Eid al-Adha. The meat of the sacrificed animal is then divided into three parts:

1. One part for the family.
2. One part for friends, relatives, and neighbors.
3. One part to be given to the poor and needy.

The Qurbani ritual is not only an act of remembering Ibrahim’s faith but also deeply emphasizes the spirit of sharing, charity, and social responsibility in Islam. Eid al-Adha also coincides with the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam. Therefore, this festival holds immense spiritual significance.

Both festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, with their distinct histories and meanings, have been maintained and developed by the Muslim community for thousands of years. They are not just religious holidays but also important occasions to strengthen family ties, enhance community bonding, promote charity, and spread messages of peace and love. The greeting “Eid Mubarak” is the spiritual thread connecting them, expressing collective joy and blessing during these significant holidays.

When does Eid Mubarak take place during the year? Islamic Calendar and Differences

Unlike fixed holidays on the Gregorian calendar such as Christmas or New Year, the timing of Eid Mubarak festivals changes each year. This is because Islam uses the lunar calendar (Hijri calendar), a calendar system based on the moon’s cycles.

The Islamic lunar calendar has 12 months, but each month begins when the new crescent moon is sighted. A lunar year has only about 354 or 355 days, which is about 10 to 12 days shorter than the solar year (365 or 366 days). Due to this difference, Islamic holidays, including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, will shift approximately 11 days earlier each year compared to the Gregorian calendar.

Therefore, Eid Mubarak is celebrated at two main times during the year, but the specific date according to the Gregorian calendar will vary:

Timing of Eid al-Fitr

• According to the Islamic calendar: Eid al-Fitr always takes place on the first day of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. It marks the official end of the fasting month of Ramadan (the 9th month).
• Duration: The festival usually lasts from one to three days, depending on the regulations and culture of each country. The first day is the most important with a special Eid prayer in the morning.
• Determining the start date: The start date of the month of Shawwal (and thus Eid al-Fitr) is usually determined by sighting the new crescent moon (hilal) after sunset on the 29th day of Ramadan. If the moon is not sighted on the evening of the 29th, the month of Ramadan will last for 30 days, and Eid al-Fitr will begin on the following day. This moon sighting process can lead to different countries celebrating Eid on different days.
• Example: In 2023, many Muslim countries celebrated Eid al-Fitr on April 21st. However, due to the annual shift, in 2024, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall around April 10th.

Timing of Eid al-Adha

• According to the Islamic calendar: Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar. This is also the month during which the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca takes place.
• Duration: The Eid al-Adha festival usually lasts for four days (from the 10th to the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah), but the sacrifice ritual (Qurbani) primarily takes place during the first three days (10, 11, 12).
• Connection to Hajj: Eid al-Adha takes place immediately after Arafah Day (the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah), the most important day of the Hajj pilgrimage, when pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafah to pray.
• Example: In 2023, Eid al-Adha began on June 28th in many parts of the world. Due to the lunar calendar shift, in 2024, Eid al-Adha is expected to begin around June 16th or 17th.

Thus, although the exact date according to the Gregorian calendar changes, Muslims worldwide always look forward to these two Eid occasions as significant milestones in the year. The use of the lunar calendar not only carries religious significance but also creates a unique characteristic, allowing Eid festivals to occur in any season throughout a cycle of approximately 33 years. The greeting “Eid Mubarak” is therefore heard at different times, but always carries the same meaning of blessing and collective joy.

What is the meaning of Eid Mubarak? Spirit and Community

The greeting “Eid Mubarak” is not merely a simple greeting during a holiday. It contains deep meanings both on a personal spiritual level and for community bonding. Understanding what is the meaning of Eid Mubarak helps us more fully appreciate the value of these sacred days in the lives of Muslims.

Spiritual Meaning: Gratitude, Repentance, and Strengthening Faith

Spiritually, Eid Mubarak is a time for Muslims to express sincere gratitude to Allah (God) for the blessings received, especially the strength and perseverance to fulfill important religious obligations.

• Eid al-Fitr: Marks success after a challenging but also very meaningful month of Ramadan. Muslims celebrate overcoming temptations and cultivating discipline, patience, and piety. This is a time to thank Allah for the opportunity to purify the soul, draw closer to Him, and receive forgiveness for sins. The morning Eid prayer is a collective expression of this gratitude and reverence.
• Eid al-Adha: Emphasizes the sacrifice, devotion, and absolute submission of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah’s command. This festival reminds believers of the importance of placing faith in Allah above all else, being willing to give up the most precious things for Him. The ritual of Qurbani (sacrifice) is not just an act of remembrance but also a way to show willingness to share one’s wealth, follow Ibrahim’s example, and seek Allah’s pleasure.

On both holidays, prayer, repentance, seeking forgiveness, and doing good deeds are especially encouraged. Eid Mubarak is a reminder of the personal connection between the believer and the Creator, an opportunity to renew faith and commit to living a better life according to the teachings of Islam.

Community Meaning: Unity, Sharing, and Reconciliation

Besides the personal spiritual meaning, Eid Mubarak also carries an immense community significance. This is an occasion to strengthen social relationships, deepen solidarity, and spread the spirit of love and charity.

• Family and friend reunions: Eid is a golden time for people to put work aside, return to reunite with family, visit relatives, friends, and neighbors. Warm shared meals, lively conversations, and joyful laughter create a cozy atmosphere, strengthening family bonds.
• Sharing and charity: The spirit of sharing is clearly demonstrated in both Eid festivals.
  • Before Eid al-Fitr, Muslims are obligated to pay Zakat al-Fitr, a special charity amount to help the poor join in the festive joy.
  • During Eid al-Adha, meat from the sacrificed animal (Qurbani) is widely shared with the poor and needy, ensuring that no one is left behind in the collective joy.
  • Giving gifts (usually money or new clothes for children, called Eidi) is also an essential part, bringing joy and showing care.
• Unity and reconciliation: Eid is an occasion for people to put aside disagreements, personal conflicts, and heal relationships. The spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation is emphasized, contributing to building a strong and harmonious community. Everyone gathers at the mosque (Masjid) to perform the Eid prayer, demonstrating unity and equality before Allah.
• Preserving culture and traditions: Activities on Eid day such as wearing the best new clothes, decorating homes, cooking traditional dishes… not only create a festive atmosphere but also contribute to preserving and passing down the unique cultural values of Islam from one generation to the next.

Thus, Eid Mubarak is not just a blessing but also the embodiment of community spirit, mutual care, and compassion. It reminds Muslims of the importance of living in harmony, loving, and sharing with those around them, especially those less fortunate.

How to Celebrate Eid Mubarak? Greetings and Notes

When the Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha holiday arrives, sending greetings to Muslim friends, colleagues, or neighbors is a beautiful gesture, showing respect and care. So, how to properly and meaningfully celebrate Eid Mubarak?

Traditional and Popular Eid Mubarak Greetings

The simplest and most common way to congratulate is to say “Eid Mubarak!”. This greeting is short, easy to remember, and widely understood in the global Muslim community, meaning “Have a blessed holiday!”.

Additionally, there are other greetings with deeper meanings, often used depending on the context and relationship:

• “Eid Sa’id!“ (عِيد سَعِيد): Another common greeting in Arabic, meaning “Happy holiday!”.
• “Kul ‘am wa antum bikhair” (كُلُّ عَامٍ وَأَنْتُمْ بِخَيْرٍ): This greeting means “May you be well every year”. This is a very formal and meaningful greeting, expressing wishes for long-lasting well-being.
• “Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum” (تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ): This is a deeply religious greeting, meaning “May Allah accept (good deeds) from us and from you“. This greeting is often exchanged after the Eid prayer, expressing the hope that the efforts in worship and good deeds during Ramadan (for Eid al-Fitr) or during Eid al-Adha will be accepted by Allah.
• “Jazak Allahu Khairan” (جَزَاكَ اللَّهُ خَيْرًا): Although not a direct Eid greeting, this is a polite way to thank someone in Islamic culture, meaning “May Allah reward you with good”. You can use this phrase to reply when receiving a greeting or help.

Depending on the geographical region, you may also hear variations such as “Selamat Hari Raya” in Southeast Asia or “Bayramınız mübarek olsun” in Turkey.

Notes when Greeting and Participating in Eid Festivals

If you are not Muslim but want to send greetings or participate in the festive atmosphere, there are a few things to keep in mind to show respect:

1. Send greetings sincerely: You can absolutely say “Eid Mubarak!” to your Muslim friends, colleagues, or neighbors. Your greeting will be warmly received if expressed sincerely and at the right time (during the Eid celebration days).
2. Timing for sending greetings: Greetings should be sent on the exact start day of Eid or during the days the festival takes place. Avoid wishing too early or too late.
3. Method of sending greetings: You can wish in person, send a message, email, greeting card, or even call. Nowadays, sending greetings via social media is also very popular.
4. Giving gifts (optional): If you have a close relationship, giving a small gift (such as pastries, fruits, or a culturally appropriate gift) can be a nice gesture, but it is not obligatory. Avoid giving alcohol or pork products.
5. Attending invitations (if any): If you are invited to a Muslim friend’s home for a meal or to celebrate on Eid day, this is a great honor. Accept the invitation if you can.
   • Dress modestly: When visiting homes or attending community events, choose modest, polite attire. Men should avoid wearing shorts, and women should avoid revealing or tight clothing. If invited into a prayer area or mosque, ask about dress code regulations (women will usually need a headscarf).
   • Respect the ritual: If you are present during prayer, remain silent and show respect.
   • Bring a small gift: Bringing a small gift for the host family (like sweets, candies) is a polite gesture.
   • Ask before taking photos: If you want to take photos, ask for permission first, especially when photographing people.
   • Learn about customs: Learning a bit about basic customs (e.g., how to greet, using the right hand when eating or receiving objects…) will help you feel more confident and show more respect.

Most importantly is to show sincerity, openness, and respect towards the culture and beliefs of Muslims. Your act of caring and sending the “Eid Mubarak” greeting is already a meaningful action, contributing to building understanding and friendship between communities.

Conclusion: What is Eid Mubarak – More Than Just a Greeting

Through this detailed exploration, we can clearly see what is Eid Mubarak is not merely a congratulatory greeting during the two biggest holidays for Muslims. It is a deep symbol of joy, gratitude, sacrifice, solidarity, and core humanitarian values of Islam.

From the meaning “Blessed Festival”, Eid Mubarak is a spiritual thread connecting over a billion believers globally, reminding them of:

• Connection with Allah: Expressing gratitude, repentance, and strengthening faith after important periods of religious practice.
• Family bonds: It is a time for reunion, gathering, strengthening relationships among members.
• Community cohesion: Promoting solidarity, reconciliation, putting aside differences to share joy together.
• Charity and sharing: Emphasizing the importance of helping the less fortunate, spreading love and care in society.
  

  

  Eid Mubarak

Understanding Eid Mubarak and the Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha festivals not only helps us gain deeper insight into rich Islamic culture but also encourages mutual respect and understanding among diverse cultural and religious communities. In an increasingly connected world, learning about and respecting different cultural beauties is a bridge to harmony and common development.

Therefore, the next time you hear the greeting “Eid Mubarak”, remember that it is not just a greeting, but an invitation to joy, sharing, and noble human spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)