After the end of the month of Ramadan, the month of Shawal begins. Shawal in Arabic means uplift or breakage. This meaning has historical importance as before the spread of Islam, Arabs were of the view that weddings that take place during the month of Shawal result in unsuccessful marriages.
The Days of Shawal
Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawal. This day is full of festivals, joy and happiness. During this day, Allah forgives all the sins and rewards Muslims for fasting, reading the Holy Quran, and worshipping Allah during the month of Ramadan.
According to Sunnah, Muslims are suggested to fast six days during Shawal. However, Allah has forbidden Muslims to fast on the Eid day as during this day, Allah has recommended all Muslims to engage themselves in festivity and joy.
Shawal and the Fasting of Six Days
Mostly, people assume that the blessings of fasting and worshipping end as soon as the holy month of Ramadan ends. However, this is not the case. The six days that follow the end of Ramadan are also very important when it comes to blessings and rewards. The Prophet (PBUH) said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days from Shawwal it is as if they fasted the entire year.” [Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, and Ibn Majah; Ahmad transmitted it from Jabir, Muntaqa]
According to Sayyiduna Thawban (RA), the Prophet (PBUH) also said,
“Whoever fasts Ramadan, and then six days after Eid, it is an entire year. Whoever does a good deed shall have ten times its reward.” [Ibn Majah, Muntaqa]
Therefore, during this month, Muslims should increase their Quran recitation as well along with fasting.
Other Considerations that Prove the Importance of Shawal
Other important considerations that may help individuals understand the importance of the six days that follow Ramadan and Eid are given below.
1. According to most fuqaha, it is best to fast for six consecutive days of Shawal. This has been recommended by Hanafi, Shafi and the Hanbali School.
2. Muslims are permitted to fast separately or consecutively during the month of Shawal.
3. It is also suggested to fast during this month as it allows the individuals to make up for any shortfall in the mandatory fasts of the month of Ramadan. Therefore, those who have missed even one of the mandatory fast of the month of Ramadan should fast during Shawal as it holds high value.
Events During Shawal
The importance of this month can be gathered from the following historical Islamic events that took place during this month.
1. Hazrat Aisha (RA) was born during this month.
2. Hazrat Aisha was also got married to the Prophet (PBUH) during this month. This took place 10 years after Prophethood and 3 years prior to Hijrah.
3. The battle of Uhud was also during the month of Shawal.
4. Hazrat Hussain, who was the grandson of the Prophet (PBUH) was also born during this month.
5. The uncle of the Prophet (PBUH), Abu Talib died during the month of Shawal.
Conclusion
In lieu of the above mentioned events and the Sunnah and Hadith, one can gather the importance of Shawal.
The word Qadar stands for honor and dignity. In this regard, the night of Qadar means that it is the night of honor and dignity. It is considered to be among the most blessed and auspicious nights and is expected to take place on any one of the odd nights of the last ten days of the Holy month of Ramadan.
The night of Qadar is full of blessings and rewards. Its significance in Islam is a lot. People cannot deny the importance of this night in Islam.
Significance of the Night of Qadar
It is the night of Qadar during which the divine revelation of Allah was blessed upon the Prophet (PBUH). Quran was revealed during this special night thereby increasing its significance for Muslims.
It is also believed that the rewards and blessings of worshiping Allah during this night are greater than the worship of a thousand months. This is almost equal to an individual’s life. Therefore, during this day, all Muslims pray voluntarily to increase their gains and also enhance the recitation of the Holy Book. Muslims also increase the remembrance of Allah and pray as much as they could.
The Prophet (PBUH) said,
“The person who offered prayers to Allah in the night of Dignity with faith and with hope of reward from Allah, all his past sins have been forgiven.” (Bukhaari)
The Prophet (PBUH) also said,
‘Seek the night of Dignity in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadhan’ (Bukhaari)
The odd nights in this regard mean the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and the 29th of the month of Ramadan. This night has not been fixed to any specific odd night and hence those who want to be near Allah, Quran learningand worshipping Allah more during odd nights is the best.
Prayers for The Night of Qadar
Some important prayers and dua’s for this night are given below,
1. Those who seek forgiveness should recite the following:
“Allahumma innaka afuwwun kareemun tuhib-bul af-wa fa-afo anni” (O Allah, You are the One who grants pardon for sins, loves forgiving, so forgive me)
2. Recite Surah Qadar 700, 70 or 7 times and Allah will forgive the sins of the individual and will save him or her from troubles. Also, 700,000 angels will also pray that the individual gets a place in the Paradise.
3. Offer Salatul Tasbih during this night
4. Pray 2 Rakat nafal namaz and in every rakat after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite INNAA ANZALNAHU thrice and Surah Ikhlas seven times. This will reduce the pain of death and will save you from the agony and torment of the grave.
5. Offer 2 rakat nafal namaz and in every rakat recite Surah Fatiha followed by Surah Ikhlas 7 times. After the namaz recite the durood 100 times and Astaghfar 100 times. This will bless you with a lot of rewards.
Conclusion
During this night, Allah listens to the prayers of all except those who are Muslim enemies, those who don’t pay zakat, those who break relationships, those who are lazy to offer namaz, those who backbite and those who performed shirk, kufr, haram, laughed at the graves etc. Therefore, make sure you are not one of them and seek forgiveness for all sins.
The Holy month of Ramadan is full of blessings and rewards for all Muslims. But, a special emphasis is placed on the last ten days of this month because of several reasons. The last ten days of the Holy month are prestigious as reflected from the recommendations and actions of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) during these days.
During these days, the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions would perform three essential tasks or practices. These are given below.
1. Worshipping during the Last Ten Days
According to a narration regarding the Prophet (PBUH) and his actions during the last ten days,
“He would strive [to do acts of worship] during the last ten days of Ramadan more than he would at any other time.”
Hazrat Aisha also reports that the Prophet (PBUH) would work hard during these days and pray all night and would also wake up his entire family to pray, worship and read the Quran.
2. Performing Itikaf in the Mosque
The act of Itikaf means secluding and isolating yourself in the mosque with pure intentions of increased Quran recitation and increased worship and praying. Muslims also perform Itikaf to get closer to Allah. This was a known practice of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Abu Hurairah reports,
“Allah’s Messenger, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, used to perform i`tikaf for ten days every Ramadan, then when it was the year in which he was taken (died), he performed I`tikaf for twenty days.” [Bukhari]
Hazrat Ayesha also reports that the Prophet (PBUH) “used to perform itikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan until Allah the Mighty and Majestic, took him.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
Itikaf is a mustahabb (recommended) act and has many hidden benefits for all Muslims. Generally, the distractions and preoccupations of this world corrupt the mind. When one isolates, these distractions are reduced and one can easily devote the entire day to the worship of Allah. The benefits of Itikaf are given below.
a) Itikaf protects the heart from indulgence into physical things.
b) Itikaf protects from consequences of talking too much.
c) It also protects from sleeping too much.
d) It allows an individual to free himself from the worldly desires and turn towards Allah.
During itikaf, individuals are allowed to perform the following actions.
a) Voluntary praying
b) Quran recitation
c) Remembrance of Allah
d) Combing hair, cutting nails, cleaning the body, wearing nice clothes etc.
e) Bidding farewell to the wife.
3. The Night of Qadar
The night of Qadar is the greatest nights of Islam. Allah also revealed a complete Surah for this night. Allah says,
“Verily! We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Decree (Lailatul-Qadr). And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Rooh (ie. Jibreel [Gabriel]) by Allaah’s Permission with all Decrees, Peace! until the appearance of dawn.” [97:1-5]
Therefore, the night of Qadar has great value and those who worship during this night get great rewards.
Conclusion
Therefore, give more emphasis to worship during the last ten days of the Holy month of Ramadan by performing the three main practices given above.
During the blessed month of Ramadan, most people face different kinds of health related problems. For some, Ramadan results in weight gain while for others it leads to reduced energy levels. No matter what the case, if you want to have the energy to pray, read and learnQuran during Ramadan, you need to devise strategies that will help you maintain a balance. The best solution to all health problems is to make a workout and nutrition plan for this month.
However, before you start making a nutritional plan for Ramadan, it is best if you understand the bodily changes that take place while fasting.
Ramadan and its Affect on the Body
Some affects of fasting on human body are given below.
During Ramadan, the body is dehydrated at rest. However, this dehydration is lesser than the dehydration caused by an aerobics exercise.
The main source of energy during fasting is body fat. However, the metabolism rate slows down because of lesser meals.
You can use this month to maximize metabolism, save and boost lean muscle mass and enhance workout. Having lean mass also means that your metabolic rate will increase ultimately burning more calories at rest.
Nutrition Plan
During the Suhoor time, it is essential to consume as much water as possible to stay hydrated all through the day. Make sure the diet plan includes a combination of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Include the following foods for Suhoor,
Egg whites
Oatmeal
Protein shake
Dark honey
Fibrous vegetables
Dates
During the Iftar time, the traditional way to break Iftar is the best way to get rehydrated. Dates contain a unique combination of glucose, fructose and potassium. These elements are essential when it comes to rehydration and restoring energy levels. Additionally, dates rehydrate much faster than water itself.
It is also recommended to include some protein in the Iftar meal to boost energy levels. After Iftar, it is best to wait some time to have dinner. Also, have small meals as it tricks the body into increasing the metabolic rate.
After doing all this, do not forget to read the holy book and pray as often as possible. Also, you should share these food related tips with your online Quran tutor and peers.
Workout Plan
While fasting, it is important that you reduce your cardio exercises to 2 days every week. This is an important step to save as much lean muscle mass as possible. Some other workout tips during Ramadan are given below.
Avoid weight training while fasting. This may result in too much muscle breakdown.
Training while dehydrated reduces the strength to carry on with the rest of the day. Studies show that a 3% dehydration of the muscle results in 12% or more loss in the stamina.
Weight train after the Taraweeh prayers. This way, you can ensure that you have consumed enough food and water or your favorite shake essential for muscle growth to stay energetic while working out in the gym.
Cardio exercises should be done before Suhoor. Make sure you consume plenty of water and some coffee or tea before your cardio exercise. It is best to wait around 30 minutes before performing a moderate intensity cardio exercise.
Conclusion
Following the nutritional and workout plan mentioned above will ensure that you stay fit and healthy during the month of Ramadan.
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is the most auspicious and blessed of all months. It is during this month that Muslims fast and worship Allah and increase their prayers. It is believed that during the month of Ramadan, Allah listens to all legitimate prayers and blesses Muslims with greater rewards for asking Him for help and support.
Therefore, the month of Ramadan is the month of piousness and devotion to Allah. It teaches Muslims values such as patience, humility and respect. During this month, Muslims indulge themselves into worship and pay less attention to their normal routine. It is also standard practice for Muslims to make special Ramadan duas to gain as much rewards and benefits as possible.
Sehar and Iftar Duas
During Ramadan, Muslims have 2 meals in the day. The first meal is taken just before sunrise and then the Muslims fast for the entire day till sunset. The second meal is taken at sunset to break the fast. Both meals have special duas.
For Sehar, Muslims should recite the following dua,
“Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri Ramadan” Translation:“I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan” [abu Dawud]
For iftar, Muslims have a different dua. This dua is given below.
“Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa ‘ala rizq-ika aftarthu”
Translation:“O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance ["wa 'alayka tawakkaltu" is quoted in some books of knowledge - but not all, hence it is in brackets]”
[abu Dawud]
“dhahabadh-dhama’u wab-tallatil ‘uruuqi, wa thabatal arju inshaAllah”
Translation:“The thrist is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah [Ta'ala] Wills”
[abu Dawud 2:306]
When Muslims break their fast at someone else’s place, they should recite the following dua,
“Aftara ‘indakumus saa’imuna, wa akala ta’aamakumul-abraaru, wasallat ‘alaikumul mala’ikat “ Translation: “May those who are fasting break their fast in your home, and may the dutiful and pious eat your food and may the angels send prayers upon you.”
[abu Dawud 3:367, ibn Majah 1:556, an Nasa'i]
Other Duas for the Month of Ramadan
At the start of the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims should recite the following dua,
“Allahu Akbar. Allahumma ahillahu ‘alayna bil-amni wal-imaani, was-salaamati, wal-Islami, wat-tawfeeqi lima tuhibbu Rabbana wa tardha. Rabbuna wa RabbukAllahu”Translation:“Allah is the Greatest. O Allah bring us the new moon with security and faith, with peace and in Islam, and in harmony with what our Lord Loves and what pleases Him. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah”
[at-Tirmidhi 5:504, ad-Darimi 1:336]
Importance of Making Dua during Ramadan
Making dua during the month of Ramadan is very important because Allah promises to listens top all legitimate prayers during this month. According to Abu Saeed Khudri, the Prophet (PBUH) said,
“Every day and night of Ramadan Allah sets free a great number of souls from Jahannam. And for every Muslim during every day and night there is a time when his dua is certainly accepted.”
For Muslims, it is the most blessed month. Therefore, they need to take advantage of this month by worshipping Allah and reciting Quran as much as possible. They should also make dua in abundance and seek His support and forgiveness in all matters. Surely, He will listen to your prayers.
It is also believed that the most blessed time during Ramadan is just before the Muslim is about to break the fast. During this time, the chances of the dua being accepted are very high.
Conclusion
Quran learning during the month of Ramadan also comes with many rewards for individuals. Therefore, it is important that Muslims read and recite Quran as much as possible while fasting.
Ramadan is the most auspicious and blessed month of the entire Islamic calendar. Among all Muslims, the month of Ramadan is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion and Muslims start preparing for the Ramadan spirit soon after Shab-e-Barat. During this month, Muslims pray a lot and fast regularly for an entire month till the celebration of Eid.
Essential Facts about the Month of Ramadan
Ramadan is a very blessed month and during this month, Allah promises to listen to all legitimate prayers of Muslims. Fasting during this month is a way to protect you from evil and learn patience, humility and control. It is also considered to be a shield against evil and allows Muslims to get rid of their sins. The Prophet (PBUH) said,
“Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah will have all of his previous sins forgiven.”
One important benefit of fasting is that it helps you to understand the suffering and pain of the poor. It also allows human beings to understand how those who do not have enough money for a meal survive through the day. Therefore, it is believed that fasting makes individuals a better human being as it allows them to associate with the pain of others.
Fasting also allows individuals to learn self-restraint, self-control and sacrifice for the love of a higher deity. It eventually teaches Muslims to connect with their inner self through rigorous praying and worshipping.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ramadan
While fasting during Ramadan, all Muslims should try to follow the things given below.
5. Helping poor in monetary terms to break their fast
6. Being patient and observe self-control
While fasting during Ramadan, Muslims should abstain from the following activities:
1. Eating food and drinking water or any other kind of fluid
2. Getting angry or losing temper
3. Being impolite, rude or inconsiderate
4. Using obscene language or bad words
5. Gossiping and backbiting
6. Lying or cheating
7. Arguing, fighting or yelling
8. Indulging in sexual activities
When Ramadan Fasts can be skipped
Islam is not a strict religion as it understands the problems that humans may face. Therefore, Allah allows individuals to skip their Ramadan fasts if they fulfill some conditions. Individuals who can skip the fast include the following:
1. Those who have to travel beyond the city and they do not have the strength to travel without food and water for the entire day.
2. Those who are sick, suffering from a very painful disease or those who need to take medicines regularly.
3. Elderly individuals who are too weak to stay hungry and thirsty for the entire day.
4. Women who are going through their menstruation cycle or those who are going through their postnatal bleeding stage.
5. Women who are expecting as they might need to take medicines regularly otherwise it may affect their or the baby’s health.
6. Those who are mentally ill.
Women who are going through their menstruation cycle, postnatal bleeding or individuals who are sick may also complete their fast after the month of Ramadan is completed.
Ramadan Guidelines to Stay Healthy
During this month, people face a lot of health related problems because of the sudden change in their routine. Individuals suffer from problems such as headache, low blood pressure, constipation, gastritis etc. therefore, it is always wise to keep a strict check on your diet during this month. Some guidelines are mentioned below.
1. Consume slow digesting foods such as oat, wheat, barley, lentil etc.
2. Eat fibrous food such as green vegetables, beetroot, fruit with skin etc.
3. Avoid fried and high cholesterol food such as sweets, potatoes, junk food etc.
4. Avoid overeating. At iftar, eat like you eat during the normal days for one meal.
5. Consume almonds, bananas, dates, haleem etc.
6. Increase water intake to stay hydrated during the day.
7. Avoid tea and coffee.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a blessed month for all Muslims. During this month, Muslims should focus on praying, worshipping, abstaining from forbidden things rather than on eating good food and buying expensive clothes for Eid. Live Quran based life and encourage others to do the same.
Ramadan is the most auspicious and blessed month of the Islamic year. During this month, Muslims can reap the maximum amount of benefits and rewards if they spend the entire month praying and worshiping Allah Almighty. It is for this reason that Muslims all over the world await Ramadan with great anticipation. So blessed is this month that the Prophet (PBUH) would often pray,
“Allah bless us in the month of Rajab and Sha’ban and help us to meet and spend Ramadan (in a deserving manner).”
This shows that the importance and significance of Ramadan cannot be compared with any other month of the Islamic year. Therefore, before you embark on the journey to prepare for Ramadan, it is best that you start with having some basic knowledge about the holy month of Ramadan.
The Month of Ramadan and its Purpose
People often talk about the divinity of the month of Ramadan; however, most of them are unaware why Ramadan is so important for Muslims all over the world. Ramadan is the month during which Quran was revealed upon the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The first verses of the Holy Quran were revealed to Muslims during this month. It is for this reason that Quran reading and recitation during this month is considered to be a highly rewarding form of worship.
In the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is the ninth month and typically lasts around 29 to 30 days depending on the sighting of the moon. It is the month of fasting during which all Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn till dusk.
The basic purpose of this month is to teach Muslims patience and humility. Muslims are ready to give up basic necessities of life from dawn till dusk only for the love of Allah. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the 1st or the 2nd of August, 2011 depending on the sighting of the moon.
Ramadan Preparation
The month of Ramadan requires preparation because it requires complete dedication on part of the Muslim. Some of the important things that you need to prepare for the month of Ramadan are given below.
Intention to Prepare: One of the most essential elements of preparing for the arrival of Ramadan is to make the intention for preparation. The preparation begins the day you start practicing humility and patience and learn how to control your anger.
Perform Rewarding Actions: In the spirit of Ramadan, it is best to start preparing for the holy month by performing actions that are rewarding and appreciated by Allah. According to a hadith, “If a person says “SubhanAllah” (glory be to Allah) 100 times, a thousand good deeds are recorded for him and a thousand bad deeds are wiped away.” Narrated by Muslim 2073
Increase the Worship: To start preparing for the holy month of Ramadan, it is best if you start increasing your worship. This will allow you to adjust your routine for the arrival of Ramadan.
Determine Specific Days for Fasting: To adjust your body to fasting, it is best that you start fasting beforehand. You should define specific days for fasting. For example, if you fast every Monday and Thursday, you will be fully prepared for Ramadan without losing your health.
Read Quran Regularly: For individuals who have not prepared for reading and reciting Quran during Ramadan, Quran recitation while fasting becomes difficult. It is best if you start reading Quran after Fajr prayer on a daily basis just to prepare for the Ramadan spirit.
Adjust Sleeping Habits: Ramadan teaches a Muslim to adjust the way one leads his life. Therefore, before the arrival of Ramadan, it is ideal if you start adjusting your sleeping habits. You should start off by going to bed early and waking up early. If you are used to this routine, you will not feel sleepy and tired when Ramadan arrives.
Define Objectives: Ramadan is the ideal month to embark on your journey to fresh objectives. If you are a smoker and want to quit this habit, you should start off with this month. If you want to be an early riser, still Ramadan is the perfect month for you.
Conclusion
In essence, Ramadan is the most blessed and rewarding month. Therefore, all Muslims should try their best to avoid entering the month of Ramadan without any preparation. Regular Quran reading and recitation and offering prayers will help you prepare for the Ramadan spirit.
When it comes to ISLAM and its obligations we are ascertain that there are facts which we understand and practice about our religion, but for most of us it has become a normal practice to ignore the point of concern and the real focal requirement which our religion requires and today we will focus on such a point to help you understand the true religion and its importance.
We, Muslims are blessed with the Divine Holy Month of Ramadan in which it is clear that Allah (SWT) helps you to identify and practice the religion for which you are promised about the increased clear rewards for which reason you are to make the most out of the given option and this is where you need to understand Ramadan and its benefits.
Holy Month Of Ramadan:
To make you understand there are certain aspects which require attention and would like to put the spotlight on them for a while, as this is the case where many believers fail to understand is that they do not have a real control over their life and definitely no control over life and death.
While this is the case you are to remember Allah (SWT) and His Mercy. We might not be there to collect the blessings, mercy and forgiveness next year Ramadan as we are not certain about the very next breath we take and this is where you are to realize and make the special month Ramadan, the time where you ignore everything else, but not your religion, Allah (SWT).
Ask Yourself The Following Simple But Yet Effective Questions:
What have you prepared for the meeting with Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala)(SWT)?
What would you have liked to achieve?
How can you be better in your worship after Ramadan?
Our busy routine of fast paced life has made things on the very different side to what our religion expects us and this is where you are to know that there are certain aspects which make it ideal to practice your religion especially where all the rewards are ascertain and increased considerably in quantity and yet we are the ones ignoring it.
Our Busy Routine:
Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala) warns us in Surah Al-Imran: “Everyone shall taste death. And only on the Day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing).” [3:185]
Allah says: “(He) Who created death and life, that He may test which of you is best in deed. He is the All-Mighty, the Oft-Forgiving.” [67:2]
We are told on several occasions to remember death and fear it and prepare well for it since beginning as no one can be ascertain about the fact that when one is going to die so the best of the practice is to remember death. Make sure there is no ignorance in the special month of Ramadan and may we all from the will of Allah (SWT) practice and make the most out of this month as our very last time.
Anas (RA), a companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reported that when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated from Makkah to Madinah, the people of Madinah used to have two festivals. On those two days they had carnivals and festivity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) asked the Ansaar (the Muslims of Madinah) about it.
They replied that before Islam they used to have carnivals on those two joyous days. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told them: ‘Instead of those two days, Allah has appointed two other days which are better, the days of Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha.’ (Hadith)
END OF RAMADAN – EID-UL-FITR
Ramadan the very special month from all the other months is the ninth month and to the very end of its blessings and mercy the next very first day of the Islamic month is Shawwal and this is precisely where you are to know that this is the day of EID, EID-UL-FITR. This is the day of joy and success and peace and happiness which Muslims are awarded on the very day.
Thus this is the true Thanksgiving Day in all sense where Muslims celebrate the joy and thanks ALLAH (SWT) to make it worth the month in their life time and bless them with the opportunity to take advantage of such a divine holy month.
SUNNAH OF EID
Wake up early in the morning
Prepare your clothes and other aspects related to cleanliness
Have a shower before wearing new clothes.
Take special measures for the cleanliness such as brushing your teeth.
Put on those clothes which are the best you have, new are not necessary (should be clean)
Use perfume (used by men only).
Have breakfast before leaving for EID-UL-FITR.
On Eid-al-Adha, eat breakfast after Salaat or after sacrifice (if you are doing a sacrifice).
Pay Zakaat-al-Fitr before Salaat-al-Eid (on Eid-al-Fitr).
Try to reach the prayer ground early.
Offer Salaat-al-Eid in congregation in an open place except when whether is not permitting like rain, snow, etc.
Recite the following Takbir on the way to Salaat and until the beginning of Salaat-al-Eid: Allaho-Akber, Allaho-Akber. La ila-ha ill-lal-lah. Allaho-Akber, Allaho-Akber. Wa-lilahill hamd.
Meaning in English: (Allah is great, Allah is great. There is no god but Allah. Allah is great, Allah is great. And all praises are for Allah).
OFFERING EID PRAYER
Ibn Abbass (RA) reported: “I participated in the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer with the Messenger of Allah (saw), Abu Bakr (RA), Umar (RA) and Uthman (RA), and all of them held Eid prayer before Khutbah, and then the Prophet Muhammad (saw) delivered the Khutbah (sermon).” (Muslim)
WHO IS WITH AN OBLIGATION TO PRAY
Umm Atiyah (RA) reported: “The Messenger of Allah (saw) commanded us to bring out on Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha, young women, hijab-observing adult women and the menstruating women. The menstruating women stayed out of actual Salaat but participated in good deeds and Duaa (supplication). I (Umm Atiyah) said to the Holy Prophet (saw): Oh! Messenger of Allah, one does not have an outer garment. He replied: Let her sister cover her with her garment.”( Muslim )
(In the Name of Allah (SWT), Most Gracious, Most Merciful, all praise and thanks are due to Allah, Lord of the Realms and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger (SAWS) and upon all his family and companions)
The Following Dua is compiled for you to make this Ramadan’s special night even better and in addition, glorify and justify those chances to make this happen in a much better way and this is why you are advised to consider the following Dua:
O Lord of Lailatul Qadr! (Night of Destiny!
Who has made it better than 1000 months!
O the Lord of the day and the night and the mountains and oceans, the Lord of light and darkness!
O the Lord of the earth and the skies!
O the Creator! O the Designer!
O Kind!
O One Who favours!
O Allah Who maintains everything!
O Allah!
O the Kindest!
O Allah!
O the Creator of new things!
O Allah! O Allah! O Allah!
The best names are for Thee alone.
Thou hast control over all virtues.
I ask Thee to send blessings on Muhammad (S.A.W.) and his Aal (A.S.).
Write my name, in this Night of Qadr, among the names of the fortunate.
Let my soul keep the company of the martyrs.
Let my good deeds be reckoned with “Illiyeen” (those exalted).
Forgive my sins.
Bestow on me such belief that Thou may be nearest to my heart.
Give me such understanding that all the doubts may be removed.
Let me be contended over that which has been ordained for me:
Let me have goodness and virtues in this world and the next.
Save me from the glowing fire of Hell. Encourage me towards Tine remembrance with pleasure and to be penitent.
Give me all those virtues that Thou hast given to Muhammad (S.A.W.) and Aal-e-Muhammad (A.S.).
(May Allah Send down Blessings and Mercy upon our Master Muhammad, the crowned one, and the one with holy ascension and the owner of buraq, mount of light who is the best in adab (conduct), intercessor of ummahs (communities), blessed with eminence and generosity. Salutation of Peace to the Prophet and his noble followers. Assalatu wa assalamu alayka Ya Rasool Allah)
