eid'ul fitr

October 1 is declared to be a non-working holiday here in the Philippines in observance of Eid'l Fitr (end of Ramadan, a Muslim holiday). Ramadan is an Islamic holy month of fasting, Eid is an Arabic word meaning "festivity", while Fiṭr means "to break the fast" (and can also mean "nature", from the word "fitrah") and so symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period.

I personally witnessed Arabs or Muslims observe their special occasion when I worked in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi 5 years ago. I’ve seen that most people visit bazaars and shopping malls, with their families and children, for last minute Eid shopping. Women, especially young girls, often paint each others' hands with traditional "henna" and wear colourful bangles. Basically, it specifies and marks the end of the fasting of Ramadan so every Muslim wants to celebrate it with their love ones. Usually they wake up early, have a small breakfast and attend mosques for the Eid prayers. Their practices are very solemn and I can still even remember those days when the clock almost strikes at 6pm, people will go rushing on to our store to grab their foods ‘cause they haven’t eaten for the whole day. They really do have a very tough fasting and I think when they do it, it’s a fulfilment on their part. That’s how they are devoted and genuinely respect on what they believed in, and it’s really impressive. It was known that during Ramadan, Muslims all over the world fast from dawn (before sun rise) to sunset, having their first daily meal at sun down prayer time. The purpose of fasting is to teach Muslims patience and humility, as well as to remind Muslims that they are fortunate and should help the needy and less fortunate. The main benefit of Ramadan is for the Muslims to train themselves to exercise restraint with the result being a closer relationship with Allah (God) and this is meant to feel how the poor people are without food or water, there’s a healthier more appreciative self by the end of the month. Also during this celebration gifts are given out and also traded between friends and family.