As the crescent moon signals the arrival of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, Muslims across the world prepare to celebrate. Streets in many parts of the Muslim world glow with decorations, the aroma of festive meals fills the air, and families gather in gratitude. Yet, for the people of Yemen, Syria, Gaza, and the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, Eid is a bittersweet occasion. Conflict, displacement and extreme poverty overshadow their celebrations, yet they cling to their traditions with whatever little they have, proving that faith and resilience endure even in the darkest of times.
Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad ï·º said,
“The fasting of the month of fasting will be hanging between earth and heavens and it will not be raised up to the Divine Presence without paying the Zakat al-Fitr.”[1]
Yemen: Holding onto traditions in the midst of crisis
In Yemen, where years of war have left millions facing famine, Eid remains a time of prayer and unity. Families assemble in mosques for the Eid prayer, after which they share simple meals, embodying the spirit of togetherness. Traditional Yemeni Eid dishes such as bint al-sahn, a honey-drizzled bread, and asida, a wheat-based dish, were once common in every household. Now, they are luxuries beyond the reach of many.
Children, despite the hardships, wear their best available clothing, often second-hand, and go door to door exchanging greetings. The custom of giving Eidiya, small monetary gifts to children, is fading, as families prioritise survival over tradition. Without Zakat al-Fitr reaching them before Eid, many will go without even a modest meal to break their fast.
Du’a:
“O Allah, alleviate the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Syria, grant them relief and a swift return to peace.”[2]
Syria: Eid in the shadow of displacement
For Syrians, particularly those who have been displaced by more than a decade of conflict, Eid is a poignant reminder of what once was. In the past, Syrian cities and villages would burst into life with family visits, children’s laughter and the scent of ma’amoul, delicate pastries filled with dates or nuts. Today, many live in refugee camps, struggling to secure even the most basic necessities.
Despite these hardships, Syrians strive to preserve their Eid traditions. Women prepare whatever modest meals they can manage, while men and children don their finest clothes, often donated or passed down. Yet, without urgent support through Zakat al-Fitr, many families will be unable to partake in even the simplest of Eid meals.
Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad ï·º said,
“The believers, in their mutual love, mercy, and compassion, are like one body, if one part feels pain, the whole body suffers.”[3]
Gaza, Palestine: Eid under siege
In Gaza, Eid mornings begin with Salat al-Eid (Eid prayer), as families gather to exchange embraces and prayers of hope. Palestinian households traditionally prepare sweets such as ka’ak and ghraybeh, which symbolise hospitality and generosity. Yet, years of blockade and war mean that even sugar and flour are increasingly out of reach for many.
Children, who should be enjoying the festivities, instead live under the shadow of trauma and loss. Parents do all they can to create a sense of celebration, decorating their homes with whatever they can find. Eidiya, a treasured tradition, has become a forgotten luxury. Without support, countless families in Gaza will face another Eid in deprivation.
Du’a:
“O Allah, be with our Rohingya brothers and sisters in their time of need, grant them strength and patience, and return them safely to their homes.”[4]
Rohingya in Bangladesh: Eid in exile
For the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, Eid is observed far from the homes they were forced to flee. In the overcrowded refugee camps, where food and clean water are scarce, the spirit of Eid remains despite unimaginable suffering. They gather for prayers in makeshift mosques, share simple meals of rice and lentils, and find solace in faith and community.
Yet, their Eid is one of survival rather than celebration. Without external support, there is little to mark the day. Zakat al-Fitr can restore dignity, ensuring they have food on their tables and clothes for their children.
Hadith:
Ibn ‘Abbas reported,
“The Prophet of Allah enjoined Zakat al-Fitr on those who fast to shield them from any indecent act or speech, and for the purpose of providing food for the needy.”[5]
What is Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr, also known as Sadaqat al-Fitr, is a mandatory charity that every Muslim, who has the means, must give before the Eid prayer. It is distinct from Zakat and is specifically intended to purify one’s fast from any shortcomings while ensuring that those in need can celebrate Eid with dignity. The amount is traditionally given in staple food items such as wheat, barley, dates, or their monetary equivalent, allowing the poor to secure essentials for Eid. The amount to be paid is set at £5 for every family member, ensuring that even a modest contribution can make a meaningful impact.
The Prophet Muhammad ï·º said:
“The fast remains suspended between Heaven and Earth until the Sadaqat al-Fitr is paid.” ([Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 1609])
By fulfilling this obligation, we uphold the spirit of Ramadan and ensure that no one is left out of the joy of Eid.
The urgency of Zakat al-Fitr: Give before Eid
Zakat al-Fitr is not merely an act of charity, it is a religious obligation that must reach the poor before Eid so that they too can share in the joy of the occasion. This small yet powerful form of giving ensures that those in need can partake in the celebrations without the burden of hunger and deprivation.
For those in Yemen, Syria, Gaza and the Rohingya refugee camps, your Zakat al-Fitr could be the difference between an empty table and a meal, between despair and a fleeting moment of joy.
Du’a: “O Allah, accept our fasting and our prayers, and make us among those who extend their hands in generosity to our brothers and sisters in need.”[6]
Donate Now: Be the Light of Eid for Those in Need
As we prepare for our own Eid celebrations, let us not forget our brothers and sisters who struggle to find even a meal. Your donation today ensures that they too can share in the blessings of Eid.
Fulfil your duty. Donate your Zakat al-Fitr now and be the reason someone smiles this Eid.
References
[1] Reported by Abu Dawood and Ibn Majah
[2] General supplication for relief and peace
[3] Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2586
[4] General supplication for protection and patience
[5] Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 1609
[6] General supplication for charity and generosity
