Ramadan is nearly over, and in a few days, Muslim communities throughout Michigan will gather to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
The Islamic holiday comes after a month of spiritual reflection filled with prayer, fasting and charity. Dependent on the crescent moon sighting, Eid is set to begin on Thursday, March 19, or Friday, March 20, according to Islamic Relief.
Nearly 250,000 Muslims call Michigan home, including considerable populations in metro Detroit cities such as Dearborn, Hamtramck and Warren, and dozens of mosques.
Also known as the festival of breaking the fast, the day will begin with prayers at mosques across the state, with loved ones gathering afterward to indulge in feasts and exchange gifts, and attend local celebrations. Festive decorations and elegant attire add to the Eid atmosphere.
Here’s what to know about Eid al-Fitr.
Is Eid on Thursday or Friday?
Eid al-Fitr is set to fall on Thursday, March 19 or Friday, March 20, depending on the moon sighting, per Islamic Relief.
The Islamic calendar, or Hijri calendar, follows the lunar cycle, with the crescent moon sighting marking the start of each new month. Eid will come with the crescent moon beginning Shawwal, the 10th month in the Hijri calendar.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Known as the festival of breaking the fast, Eid al-Fitr is an Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan.
What is the moon phase today?
The moon is currently in its waning crescent phase, at 8% illumination, according to Space.com.
How to pronounce Eid al-Fitr
“Eid” can be said like the word “feed” without the “f.” But here’s a quick Arabic language lesson if you want to know how to really pronounce it.
“Eid” is “عيد” in Arabic and is pronounced as “‘ayid.” The first Arabic letter of the word, ‘ع’, is a consonant, which is pronounced using the back of your throat.
Eid Mubarak meaning
If you’d like to send Eid wishes to your Muslim friends or loved ones, you can say “Eid Mubarak,” or blessed Eid.
Naples Daily News contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is Eid on Thursday or Friday? When to celebrate in Michigan
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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