A `Eed is any day of gathering. It is derived from `Aada (meaning
returned), because people return to it periodically. Some scholars say
that it derives from `Aadah (custom or practice) because people are
accustomed to celebrating it. Its plural is A`yaad. Ibn ul-`Araabee
"It is called `Eed because it returns every year with renewed happiness."1
Ibn `Aabidayn said:
`Eed days are thus named because Allaah (SWT) renews His bounties in them; and He distributes His blessings to His worshippers.
Thus on `Eed ul-Fitr, He permits them to eat after having been
restrained from food; and He requires paying sadaqat ul-fitr (the
charity of breaking the fast) to the needy.
"And on `Eed ul-Adha, He permits the completion of Hajj (pilgrimage)
with the final tawaaf (circulating around al-Ka`bah); and He requires
offering sacrifices and distributing their meat, etc.
"Also, it is customary for people to be joyful, happy, and to
rejoicing during the `Eed days."2
- Lisaan ul-`Arab. - Back to text
- Haasheeyatu Ibn `Aabidayn. - Back to text