Celebrating Eid in a time of war
Eid is a celebration of harmony, gratitude, and peace, marked by prayer, charity, and goodwill. It is a day when families unite, and believers thank God. The festival begins with the sighting of the new moon. As soon as the crescent appears, believers say a prayer: “O God, let this moon come upon us with peace and faith.” This prayer is not just a ritual but a vow that believers will be a source of safety and peace for others. By reciting this prayer, they pledge to live among people as well-wishers, to promote harmony, and spread goodwill.
Gratitude is a key part of the spirit of Eid. The Quran reminds us at the completion of Ramzan, “so that you may be grateful” (Quran 2:185). Gratitude fosters a peaceful mindset. The greeting commonly exchanged on Eid, As-salamu alaykum – peace be upon you – further reinforces this message. It is more than a formality; it carries a moral assurance. Islamic scholar Ibn ‘Uyaynah, said, “Do you know what the greeting of salam means? It assures you that you are safe and secure from the one who offers it.”
However, this year’s Eid comes at a time of world unrest and anxiety. Many regions are facing war, instability, and uncertainty. These conditions demonstrate how fragile peace can be. When violence happens, the joy of festivals is clouded by worries about the future.
Ordinary people mostly carry the burden of war. Homes are wrecked, families are torn apart, and children grow up scared. Even when conflicts arise over political disputes or strategic goals, their human toll remains huge and lasting.
In Islam, war is not at all a preferred course of action. Instead, peace is presented as the natural and desired state of human life. The Quran says, “Reconciliation is best” (Quran 4:128), and instructs believers, even when compelled to fight, to respond positively when the other side seeks peace (Quran 8:61). These teachings make peace not just a passive idea but an active duty.
A clear historical example of this strategy is the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. When Muslims were blocked from entering Mecca to perform Umrah, negotiations resulted in a peace agreement with the Quraysh. Although the terms seemed unfavorable for Muslims, they were accepted to establish peace. The outcome demonstrated that temporary compromises can lead to long-term stability and progress.
In today’s interconnected world, peace is even more absolutely essential than ever. Conflict disrupts trade, triggers humanitarian crises, and increases global insecurity. Eid, therefore, is more than a celebration; it carries a broader message: to create a more humane and peaceful world.
The writer is chairperson, Centre for Peace and Spirituality International, New Delhi
Disclaimer
Views expressed above are the author’s own.
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