“This year’s Eidul Fitr feels different for many, me included.

“It’s not the usual joyous occasion I’ve come to expect.

“In fact,

I feel a sense of guilt celebrating,

even after a month of fasting.”

Guest Blog Post By Faisal Kutty

The ongoing violence and loss of innocent lives at the hands of Israeli forces have left countless individuals worldwide, particularly Muslims, in a state of shock and mourning.

Families in Palestine are grieving the loss of their loved ones, while others are barely surviving amidst makeshift hospitals and homes.

Indeed, when we consider the crises unfolding in places like Ukraine, Myanmar (Burma), Sudan, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Somalia, Mexico, Brazil, Syria, and beyond, it becomes difficult to find cause for celebration.

As human beings, and as Muslims in particular, it is our moral obligation to stand in solidarity with those who are suffering.

The month-long exercise of fasting was meant to instill empathy for the less fortunate within us. Have we truly learned anything from this experience?

While I’m not qualified to issue religious decrees, I firmly believe that this Eid – more than ever – should be observed with simplicity, deep reflection, compassion, and support for those affected by the atrocities committed by various regimes and groups.

While celebration is a part of Eid, Islam places great emphasis on caring for our fellow human beings, who as Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam, pointed out are either brothers/sisters in faith or in humanity.

Let us use this Eid to embody the principles of Islam by showing solidarity with the oppressed and suffering around the world, as well as those in our own communities.

While we acknowledge the suffering of all, we must recognize the unique plight of the Palestinians.

Too many world powers, including those we call home, are either enabling, supporting, or standing by silently while offering mere lip service.

In memory of the 35,000 plus innocent lives taken by Israeli forces, and the hundreds taken by Hamas, let us dedicate this Eid to the departed souls, those still trapped under rubble, those enduring suffering, those orphaned, those being held hostage in Gaza and Israel, and those displaced by these war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Our show of solidarity may not bring them back, but it will convey a message of love, support, and empathy.

While foregoing or toning down our celebrations won’t directly change their circumstances, our solidarity and prayers can offer hope to those who still believe in humanity and strive for their basic human dignity.

Let us pray to ease the suffering all people who are oppressed.

Let us pray for an end to oppression and killings.

Let us pray for a Free Palestine.

Let us not back down from calling for and working to end killings of innocents wherever or whoever they may be.

Let us pray and work for peace.

Eid Mubarak to all who observe this occasion.

Feel free to like, comment and share for broader reach.

#EIDMUBARAK

This year's Eidul Fitr feels different for many, me included. It's not the usual joyous occasion I've come to expect. In fact, I feel a sense of guilt celebrating, even after a month of fasting.

The ongoing violence and loss of innocent lives at the hands of… pic.twitter.com/fNkDfdTrj7

— TheMuslimLawyer (@faisalkutty) April 10, 2024