Simplicity in Eid Celebration, Eternal Happiness
By Dr. Abdul Wadud Nafis, LC., MEI
Eid al-Fitr is a moment of joy and victory after completing the month of Ramadan. However, the euphoria of celebration often leads some people to forget the importance of frugality and simplicity. Islam teaches balance in all aspects of life, including in celebrating significant occasions. Celebrating Eid with financial prudence does not diminish happiness; rather, it makes it more meaningful. By managing finances wisely, we can enjoy togetherness without falling into extravagance. How can we practice financial prudence in Eid celebrations? Let’s explore together!
Practicing frugality during Eid aligns with Islamic teachings, which emphasize balance, simplicity, and avoiding excess in all matters. Here are some ways to practice financial prudence during Eid celebrations:
1. Creating a Budget for Eid
Before Eid arrives, prepare a realistic budget covering essential needs such as zakat, charity, food, clothing, and transportation. With proper planning, expenses can be kept under control.
2. Prioritizing Needs Over Wants
Focus on essential needs, such as food for family and guests, rather than excessive luxuries. Avoid purchasing consumer goods just because of trends.
3. Avoiding Excess in Buying New Clothes
Buying new clothes is not an obligation for Eid. If previous clothing is still decent and clean, it can still be worn. If buying new attire, choose quality yet reasonably priced items.
4. Being Wise in Preparing Eid Meals
Prepare an adequate amount of food to avoid waste. Cooking at home is more economical than buying pre-prepared meals. Select nutritious yet affordable ingredients.
5. Managing Consumption and Avoiding Waste
Islam forbids wastefulness (Qur’an, Al-Isra’: 26-27). Avoid buying or cooking excessive food that may end up being discarded. If there is surplus food, share it with neighbors or those in need.
6. Avoiding Consumer Debt
Do not go into debt just for the sake of prestige or luxury in celebrating Eid. It is better to adjust the celebration to one’s financial capability.
7. Using Transportation Wisely
For those traveling home for Eid, choose a mode of transportation that fits the budget. Take advantage of discounts or ticket promotions if available, and consider traveling with family to save costs.
8. Embracing Simplicity in Eid Celebrations
The essence of Eid is not in luxury but in togetherness, strengthening bonds, and returning to purity. A simple yet meaningful celebration brings more happiness than unnecessary extravagance.
By adopting financial prudence in celebrating Eid, we not only uphold Islamic values but also teach our families and future generations the importance of a simple, blessed, and beneficial life.
Conclusion
Celebrating Eid frugally does not reduce happiness; instead, it strengthens the true meaning of victory—self-control, sharing with others, and living a blessed life. Simplicity is not a shortcoming but a reflection of wisdom. By celebrating wisely, we not only maintain financial stability but also embody the true essence of Islamic values.\
Happy Eid al-Fitr! May happiness and blessings always be with us!
References
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3. Yusuf al-Qaradawi (1997). Halal and Haram in Islam. Jakarta: Pustaka Al-Kautsar.
4. Rahmat, M. (2019). Islamic Economics: Theory and Application in Daily Life. Yogyakarta: UII Press.
5. Suharto, E. (2021). Islamic Family Financial Management. Bandung: Pustaka Setia.
6. Majelis Tarjih and Tajdid Muhammadiyah Team (2020). Islamic Jurisprudence for Muslim Life. Yogyakarta: Suara Muhammadiyah.
7. Zuhairini et al. (2016). Principles of Islamic Economics in the Perspective of the Qur’an and Hadith. Malang: UIN Maliki Press.