Eid Mubarak: What traditional Muslim greeting means and how to respond

Millions of Muslims are celebrating Eid al-Fitr this weekend, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Muslims have been fasting during the hours of daylight for the last four weeks - not even drinking water - in an act known as sawm, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

During this time they also read the Quran, pray and perform charitable acts.

This year’s Ramadan started on April 23 and will end on Sunday (May 24).

The exact date of Eid depends on whether the crescent moon can be seen to mark the start of Shawwal, the next Islamic month.

This year it could have begun on Saturday if the new moon was seen on Friday night. Weather conditions prevented this, meaning Ramadan lasts the full 30 days and Eid will begin at sunset on Sunday.

Eid al-Fitr means “Festival of breaking the fast” and is a time for forgiveness and making amends.

How to wish someone happy Eid

Eid Mubarak is the most common greeting, though there are other alternatives.

Muslims traditionally say it to one another once they’ve said the Eid prayer, and it means ‘happy holiday’.

The polite response is Khair Mubarak which is a way to wish someone good will in return.

Another greeting is Jazak Allah Khair, which means ‘May Allah reward you with goodness’.

Eid gifts

As well as greetings, many Muslims exchange cards and small gifts for Eid, as families traditionally come together to dine and visit friends and neighbours to share good wishes for the upcoming year.

It’s also traditional to wear best or new clothes for Eid, while in Muslim countries Eid can be celebrated for up to three days as an official holiday.

Eid Mubarak!