MUSCAT -- Oman yesterday celebrated Eid al Fitr with gaiety, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadhan. Early in the day, the faithful thronged mosques and specially arranged prayer grounds to offer Eid al Fitr prayers, followed by exchange of greetings and pleasantries. Eid sermons delivered by Imams and religious scholars focused on showing mercy to family, neighbours, relatives and the poor in society. The call for mercy highlighted that Islam espoused the happiness of everyone.
Though Zakat al Fitr is a tenet enjoined on the followers of Islam to be carried out before Eid prayers, those who have failed to fulfil that responsibility can extend the prescribed alms to the poor even after the Eid prayers, the Imam who addressed the gathering at Abu Bakr mosque in Wattayah said. The Wattayah mosque was filled with citizens and residents, including women and children at the special area designated for them.
The entire compound overflowed with devout followers who turned up early in the morning to offer Eid prayers. Zakat al Fitr caps piety during the holy month of Ramadhan, the Imam said, adding that "we must share our happiness with the disadvantaged in society." Amin Mustapha, a Sudanese national, said that this year, his home was the meeting place for friends and relatives to partake in Eid celebrations.
"I had several friends and family members who visited us and exchanged greetings and pleasantries. Some of them also joined us for Eid lunch. I could fulfil my Zakat al Fitr obligations and extend alms to seven individuals." The Keralite Islamic community offered prayers at Al Ruzaiki prayer ground in Ghala. Over 5,000 faithful, including women, attended the prayers organised by the Kerala Islamic Association.
Islamic scholar Janab Jamal Mangada exhorted the faithful to maintain the purity achieved through rigorous training and the Ramadhan fast and thereby live a model life in this world. The Holy Quran is the noble message of humanity, brotherhood and perseverance, he added. The Indian Islahi Centre also organised prayers at Wadi Kabir, which was attended by a large gathering.
In a friendly get-together organised by the Kerala Islamic Association in the evening, Indian community members, including embassy officials, participated. Janab Jamal Mangada was also present on the occasion. The Bangladeshi community congregated in a mosque in Hamriya. The Imam from Bangladesh in his sermon emphasised the virtues of Zakat al Fitr. The community members visited each other and partook in festive celebrations. The Pakistan community organised Eid prayers at the grounds of Pakistan School in Darsait. A large gathering attended the prayers.
The Sultanate witnessed a large turnout of visitors from the nearby Gulf countries, especially the United Arab Emirates. They joined relatives and friends who ventured out to prominent tourist attractions around the Sultanate. The city parks, amusement centres and beaches were thronged by Omani and expatriate families in the evening. Notable attractions include Al Hoota cave, which will remain open during the holidays. The city hotels reported near-full occupancy.
By Ebby Chacko George
Oman Daily Observer 2007
