The Law of Saying Happy Eid al-Fitr: What You Need to Understand

Kapanlagi.com - As Eid al-Fitr approaches, Muslims around the world often greet each other as a form of joy for the victory after observing a month-long fast. Greetings such as "Happy Eid al-Fitr", "Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin", or "Taqobbalallahu minna wa minkum" are commonly heard, both in person and through digital messages. However, is there any specific guidance in Islam regarding the greeting of Eid al-Fitr?

In Islamic teachings, every action has its own ruling, including in terms of giving greetings. Some scholars view that this greeting is part of a tradition (adat) that is permissible, while others believe that certain greetings do not have a basis in the Sunnah of the Prophet. So, what are the views of scholars regarding this matter?

This article will thoroughly discuss the law of saying Happy Eid al-Fitr, the evidence supporting it, and the opinions of scholars on several commonly used phrases. By understanding a broader perspective, Muslims can be wiser in conveying greetings on this festive day.

1. 1. The Legal Basis for Saying Happy Eid al-Fitr in Islam

The greeting of Happy Eid al-Fitr has become a part of the culture of Muslims, but is there any evidence supporting it? In Islam, there is a principle that the original ruling regarding customs or habits is permissible, unless there is evidence prohibiting it.

One of the narratives that is often referenced is from Jubair bin Nufair, who stated that the companions of the Messenger of Allah used to say "Taqobbalallahu minna wa minkum" (May Allah accept our deeds and your deeds) when they met on Eid. This hadith is considered to have a hasan chain of narration according to Al-Hafizh Ibn Hajar.

A similar opinion is also expressed by Sheikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, who mentioned that saying Happy Eid al-Fitr is permissible because there is an example from the companions. However, he himself did not initiate the greeting, but only responded if someone greeted him first. This indicates that the greeting is not an obligation, but it is still permissible in Islam.

2. 2. The Differences of Opinion Among Scholars Regarding Eid al-Fitr Greetings

Although there are accounts of companions who greeted each other on Eid al-Fitr, scholars still have diverse views on this matter. Sheikh Jalaluddin as-Suyuthi in his book Al-Hawi Lil Fatawi states that the greeting for Eid al-Fitr is permissible, neither a sunnah nor a bid'ah.

On the other hand, Imam Malik once said that in Madinah, such greetings were not known. This indicates that some scholars do not consider greetings as a tradition in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. However, this is more of a regional custom and does not mean it is absolutely prohibited.

Sheikh Muhammad bin Shalih Al-'Utsaimin also emphasizes that the greeting for Eid al-Fitr is allowed, as long as it does not contain meanings that contradict Islamic law. Thus, greetings like "Happy Eid al-Fitr", "Eid Mubarak", or "Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin" are still permissible, provided the intention is good and it is not considered a ritual act of worship.

3. 3. The Controversy of the Phrase "Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin" and Asking for Forgiveness Physically and Spiritually

One of the expressions commonly used in Indonesia is "Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin, Mohon Maaf Lahir dan Batin". However, does this phrase truly have a basis in Islam?

In terms of language, "Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin" means "May we be among those who return (to our true nature) and succeed". This expression is not found in hadith or the accounts of the companions, yet it still carries a good meaning. Therefore, some scholars permit its use as part of cultural tradition.

As for the addition of "Mohon Maaf Lahir dan Batin", this is more of a habit of the Indonesian people who make the Eid celebration a moment for mutual forgiveness. Although it is not specifically taught in Islam, its essence aligns with Islamic teachings that emphasize the importance of asking for and granting forgiveness to one another.

4. 4. Recommended Greetings During Eid al-Fitr

From various opinions of scholars, the recommended greetings during Eid al-Fitr are those that come from the narrations of the companions, namely:

• Taqobbalallahu minna wa minkum (May Allah accept our deeds and yours)
• Iedukum Mubarak (May your holiday be blessed)
• Kullu 'aamin wa antum bikhair (May you be well throughout the year)

These greetings have good meanings and are closer to the teachings of Islam. However, if someone still wishes to use other greetings such as Minal 'Aidin wal Faizin, it is not a problem as long as it is not believed to be a sunnah or an obligation.

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(kpl/frr)