Islamiyat · May / June 2026 · Paper 22 · Question 5

Write a detailed account of the two main festivals of Islam and how they are celebrated by Muslims across the world.

Use the AO1 Levels of Responses The two main festivals of Islam are ʿId al-Fitr and ʿId al-Adha. The first is celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan and the second to mark the completion of Hajj and to remember prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah’s command.

On the morning of Eid, Muslims all over the world bathe and dress up in their best or new clothes. Before the celebrations, Muslims begin the day by offering Eid prayers. Eid prayers are compulsory for all those on whom Friday (Jumʿah) prayers are compulsory. They do not replace Fajr prayers and can only be prayed in a congregation. There is no qada prayer (delayed prayer) to replace Eid prayer and the time for it is from sunrise until noon. There is no adhan/azaan or iqamat for Eid prayers.

Eid prayers are said in the masjid or in an open field called a musallah. A khutba is delivered after the Eid prayers and there are two rakaats to be prayed during which six extra takbirs are called out.

Fitrana is given before Eid prayers by the head of the household to the needy to help them celebrate ʿId al-Fitr and to compensate for any mistakes made during one’s fast.

The sacrifice (Qurbani) of an animal on ʿId al- Adha is done to reaffirm that Muslims who can afford to do so are willing to sacrifice in the name of God. The meat of the sacrificed animal is shared amongst family, neighbours and the needy, which strengthens bonds and enables the poor to enjoy the festival.

Families get together and Eid parties are held to celebrate these special festivals. Details of the celebrations can be given by students.

Why are Islamic festivals important to celebrate? Give reasons for your answer. Use the AO2 Levels of Responses

Many reasons could be given by candidates in response to this question. It could be said that celebrating these festivals unifies the ummah and strengthens the bond of brotherhood. It could be said that the poor and the needy benefit from the fitrana and zakat and sadaqah given at these occasions and the meat of the animals distributed at ʿId al-Adha gives them the chance to eat well while fostering feelings of empathy.

Children learn that Islam is not just a set of rituals but also a faith of joy, gratitude and community. They enjoy the special days of their faith and develop love and gratefulness towards God.