When is Eid al-Fitr 2016 in USA? What Is It, Quotes and Everything You Need to Know
In the U.S., the end of the month-long Ramadan of Muslims, popularly known as Eid al-Fitr, will be celebrated on Tuesday,July 5, 2016, a day after the 4th of July.
Muslims in the country are expected to wake up early to pray inside a mosque or a designated praying ground. The occasion is marked with colorful costume celebrations and food gatherings.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
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The day marks one of the most important dates for the Muslims since it has a spiritual significance for them. During Eid al-Fitr, the Muslims thank Allah for providing them the strength to get through with their month-long fasting.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset as part of their fasting vow. They also set aside drinking or having sexual relations.
How is Eid al-Fitr Observed in the US?
Since Eid al-Fitr is not a public holiday in the U.S., many Muslim groups have been campaigning to make it a day-off since a big part of the population will be observing this celebration. The Coalition for Muslim School Holidays is one of the groups that have been long lobbying for this cause.
No Definite Date for Eid al-Fitr
The date for this celebration varies every year as it is determined by the sighting of the new moon. This occurrence, however, happens on different dates in various locations in the globe so the celebration does not happen all at the same time.
Top Quotes
Because it is the end of Ramadan, here are verses from the Quran which Muslims associate to the celebration. Here are a few as per The Holiday Spot:
1. O children of Adam, we have provided you with garments to cover your bodies, as well as for luxury. But the best garment is the garment of righteousness. These are some of GOD's signs, that they may take heed. [7:26]
2. He is the One GOD; the Creator, the Initiator, the Designer. To Him belong the most beautiful names. Glorifying Him is everything in the heavens and the earth. He is the Almighty, Most Wise. [59:24]
3. Your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him, and be kind to parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, do not rebuke them, but speak to them in terms of honor and kindness. Treat them with humility, and say, 'My Lord! Have mercy on them, for they did care for me when I was little'. [17:23-4].
4. Hold to forgiveness, command what is right; but turn away from the ignorant." [7:199].
