Is It Sunnah to Say "Eid Mubarak"? Understanding Islamic Teachings

Table of Contents

Is It Sunnah to Say "Eid Mubarak"? ~ Every year, Muslims around the world celebrate two major joyous occasions: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr comes after the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage and the sacrifice of animals. Both are special moments filled with happiness, togetherness, and, of course, various forms of greetings. One of the most commonly heard greetings is "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ), which means "May this Eid be blessed."

In Islamic culture, offering greetings on Eid is not just a formality; it is an expression of joy that we share with family, friends, and fellow Muslims. When we meet or communicate with others on this special day, exchanging greetings becomes a way to strengthen relationships and spread festive cheer. This tradition has existed since the time of Prophet Muhammad, when his companions would exchange prayers and good wishes upon meeting during Eid. However, is there a specific greeting that is Sunnah in Islam? Or is saying "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) merely a customary phrase that has evolved over time?

This question often arises among Muslims who want to ensure that their practices are based on strong religious foundations. In this article, we will explore whether saying "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) is considered Sunnah or if it is simply a cultural tradition that has developed in different Muslim communities. We will also examine Islamic perspectives on Eid greetings based on hadith and the views of scholars. By understanding this, we can be more confident in observing good practices during these blessed days.

Islamic Perspective on Saying "Eid Mubarak"

When Eid arrives, we often hear the phrase "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) from family members, friends, and even strangers. But what does this greeting truly mean?

Linguistically, "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) originates from Arabic. The word "Eid" (عِيْدٌ) means festival or celebration, while "Mubarak" (مُبَارَكٌ) means blessed. Thus, when we say "Eid Mubarak," we are essentially praying that the recipient's Eid is full of blessings. This phrase is widely used in Muslim-majority countries as an expression of joy and a prayer for goodness towards others. But does this greeting have a foundation in Islam?

Islam emphasizes the importance of exchanging greetings and offering prayers of goodwill to fellow Muslims. This is not just a sign of kindness but also an encouraged practice in Islamic teachings. In the Quran, Allah states:

وَاِذَا حُيِّيْتُمْ بِتَحِيَّةٍ فَحَيُّوْا بِاَحْسَنَ مِنْهَآ اَوْ رُدُّوْهَا ۗ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ كَانَ عَلٰى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ حَسِيْبًا

And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet [in return] with one better than it or [at least] return it [in a like manner]. Indeed, Allah is ever, over all things, an Accountant.^[1]

From this verse, we can understand that offering greetings or making supplications is part of good character in Islam. If someone says "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) to us, responding with a similar or even better greeting is recommended.

Is It Sunnah to Wear New Clothes on Eid?

Additionally, there are narrations from the companions that show their practice of exchanging greetings during Eid. It is reported that the companions of the Prophet used to say: "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum" (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ), which means "May Allah accept (our deeds) from us and from you."

Although this hadith does not explicitly mention the phrase "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ), it indicates that exchanging prayers and good wishes during Eid has been a tradition since the time of the Prophet and his companions. Therefore, saying "Eid Mubarak" also falls into the category of supplications for goodness, which carries a positive meaning.

In practice, exchanging Eid greetings is also a way to strengthen bonds with family, friends, and the surrounding community. Moreover, in the modern era, we often convey these greetings through text messages, social media, or even directly to the people we meet.

Is It Sunnah to Say "Eid Mubarak"?

Although there is no explicit evidence stating that saying "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) is a recommended Sunnah, its meaning remains positive and aligns with Islamic teachings on supplicating for one another's well-being.

In conclusion, Islam strongly encourages us to exchange prayers and good wishes, especially on Eid. So, if someone greets you with "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ), do not hesitate to respond with a kind supplication in return!

Is There a Hadith About Saying "Eid Mubarak"?

Every Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, we frequently hear the greeting "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ) from family, friends, and fellow Muslims. But have we ever wondered whether there is a hadith that specifically mentions saying "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)?

In the books of hadith, there is no direct narration stating that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explicitly said "Eid Mubarak" (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ). However, there are hadiths indicating that the companions used to exchange greetings on Eid. One of the well-known narrations is as follows:

كَانَ أَصْحَابُ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا الْتَقَوْا يَوْمَ الْعِيدِ، يَقُولُ بَعْضُهُمْ لِبَعْضٍ: تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ

The Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) met on the day of Eid, some of them would say to others: "May Allah accept (our deeds) from us and from you."^[2]

Even though this phrase is not exactly the same as "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)," its meaning still conveys a supplication and good wishes for Eid. Therefore, the practice of exchanging greetings on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha is not new but has existed since the time of the Companions.

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Scholars have also discussed this practice. Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal was once asked about giving Eid greetings, and he responded that it is permissible. Scholars such as Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Qayyim also did not object to this practice as long as the greeting contained supplications and goodwill.

In practice, Muslims around the world have various ways of exchanging Eid greetings. Some say "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)," "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)," or other greetings in their local languages.

So, is it obligatory to say "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)"? No, because there is no hadith that mandates it. However, if we say it, it still serves as a form of supplication and goodwill.

Exchanging greetings on Eid, whether by saying "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" or other words, is a good practice that aligns with Islamic teachings. The most important thing is that our intention is to spread happiness and strengthen relationships among fellow Muslims.

The Sunnah Way of Giving Eid Greetings

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are moments of joy for Muslims worldwide. After fasting during Ramadan or performing the sacrificial ritual on Eid al-Adha, we exchange greetings to share happiness. But have we ever wondered how Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his Companions greeted each other on Eid? Is there a Sunnah way that we can follow?

In hadith, there is no specific phrase that is explicitly prescribed as Sunnah for Eid greetings. However, there are narrations from the Companions that illustrate how they exchanged greetings on Eid. One of the most famous phrases comes from the hadith quoted earlier:

كَانَ أَصْحَابُ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا الْتَقَوْا يَوْمَ الْعِيدِ، يَقُولُ بَعْضُهُمْ لِبَعْضٍ: تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ

This phrase is recommended because it contains a supplication for the acceptance of our worship during Ramadan or the sacrificial act on Eid al-Adha. This greeting was also practiced by early scholars, including Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal. If we wish to follow the Sunnah, using this supplication can be our primary choice when exchanging Eid greetings.

Is It Sunnah to Perform Ghusl for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?

Additionally, some scholars permit other greetings as long as they carry good meanings and do not contradict Islamic teachings. Phrases like "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" or "Happy Eid al-Fitr/Eid al-Adha" are also forms of supplication and positive customs that have developed within Muslim communities.

Imam Ibn Taymiyyah, in his book Majmu' al-Fatawa (مَجْمُوْعُ الْفَتَاوَى), explains that there is no prohibition on giving Eid greetings, as long as the words convey good wishes. This means that we may greet each other in various ways, as long as the greeting contains supplication and goodwill.

Did Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Have a Specific Eid Greeting?

There is no narration stating that the Prophet (PBUH) had a specific Eid greeting. However, he always encouraged exchanging supplications and goodwill on all occasions, including during Eid.

Another Sunnah when giving Eid greetings is shaking hands or even embracing if possible. The Companions also had a habit of shaking hands when they met and exchanged supplications, including on Eid.

Additionally, we are encouraged to deliver greetings with a cheerful face and happiness. Smiling when meeting fellow Muslims is a Sunnah taught by the Prophet (PBUH), even in everyday situations.

Is It Sunnah to Celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?

Now, is there a specific way that must be followed in giving Eid greetings? No strict rule exists, but there are Sunnah practices that we can follow, such as saying "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)," including supplications, shaking hands, and showing warmth and joy.

The best way to give Eid greetings is to follow the habits of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his Companions. By using words that contain supplications, shaking hands, and displaying a cheerful face, we can make Eid a moment full of blessings and happiness for everyone.

The Importance of Spreading Happiness on Eid

Eid is always a highly anticipated moment. After carrying out acts of worship with sincerity and devotion, we finally reach the day of victory that brings joy. However, the happiness of Eid is not just about new clothes or delicious dishes on the dining table. More than that, Eid is an opportunity for us to share happiness with others. Extending greetings, smiling, and sharing sustenance are forms of kindness taught in Islam. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

تَبَسُّمُكَ فِي وَجْهِ أَخِيكَ لَكَ صَدَقَةٌ

Your smile to your brother is charity.^[3]

A smile, though simple, can be a source of happiness for others. Therefore, we are encouraged to spread joy on this blessed day so that the bonds of brotherhood grow stronger and the sense of togetherness becomes more profound.

Eid greetings are not just words; they are also an expression of love and kindness. Exchanging greetings strengthens relationships and adds warmth among fellow Muslims.

In Islam, spreading happiness is part of good character. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

أَحَبُّ النَّاسِ إِلَى اللَّهِ أَنْفَعُهُمْ لِلنَّاسِ

The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.^[4]

This means that no matter how small the good deed we do, including spreading happiness on Eid, it holds great value in the sight of Allah.

The Quran also teaches the importance of strengthening social bonds and spreading joy. Allah says:

وَتَعَاوَنُوْا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوٰىۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوْا عَلَى الْاِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ ۖوَاتَّقُوا اللّٰهَ ۗاِنَّ اللّٰهَ شَدِيْدُ الْعِقَابِ

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.^[5]

Eid is the perfect time to fulfill this command by sharing happiness with one another.

Besides exchanging greetings, another way to spread joy is by sharing food or gifts. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

تَهَادُوْا تَحَابُّوا

Exchange gifts, and you will love one another.^[6]

A gift does not have to be expensive; what matters is the intention to bring happiness to others.

For those who are able, giving charity on Eid is one of the best ways to spread joy. Zakat al-Fitr, which is obligatory before Eid al-Fitr, is a clear example of how Islam teaches us to share our sustenance with those in need.

Spreading happiness does not always require material wealth. Simple gestures, such as calling distant family members or visiting neighbors, can make others feel cared for and happy.

Additionally, Islam teaches us to uphold good manners in our interactions. Smiling, speaking gently, and avoiding words that hurt others are simple yet meaningful ways to spread happiness.

We are also encouraged to make more supplications for fellow Muslims on Eid. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

دَعْوَةُ الْمُسْلِمِ لِأَخِيهِ بِظَهْرِ الْغَيْبِ مُسْتَجَابَةٌ

The supplication of a Muslim for his brother in his absence is answered.^[7]

When we bring happiness to others, we are, in fact, bringing happiness to ourselves as well. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

مَنْ نَفَّسَ عَنْ مُؤْمِنٍ كُرْبَةً مِنْ كُرَبِ الدُّنْيَا، نَفَّسَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ كُرْبَةً مِنْ كُرَبِ يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ

Whoever relieves a Muslim of distress, Allah will relieve his distress on the Day of Judgment.^[8]

Therefore, let us take advantage of the festive day to spread happiness, whether through greetings, exchanging gifts, or simply showing care.

The happiness we share will return to us, as in Islam, goodness is always rewarded with goodness.

Is Saying "Eid Mubarak" Considered bidah?

Every time Eid arrives, we often hear the greeting "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)!" as an expression of joy and a prayer for fellow Muslims. However, some people believe that saying such greetings is bidah (بِدْعَةٌ) because there is no specific evidence stating that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used this phrase. Is this claim true? To understand this matter, we need to examine the concept of bidah in Islam as explained by scholars and whether there is any basis in Islamic teachings that permit or even encourage exchanging Eid greetings.

In Islam, bidah refers to innovations in religion that lack any foundation in the Quran and Hadith. However, not all new practices are automatically considered misguided.

Some companions of the Prophet, such as Jubair bin Nufair, narrated that they used to greet each other on Eid by saying:

"Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)"

May Allah accept [our deeds] from us and from you.

Scholars have differing opinions on Eid greetings. Most allow and even encourage them, considering it a good custom that strengthens brotherhood.

Ibn Qudamah, in Al-Mughni (المُغْنِي), stated that exchanging Eid greetings is not a specific act of worship but rather good etiquette between Muslims.

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah also held that saying Eid greetings is permissible as long as it does not contain anything prohibited in Islamic teachings.

Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal was once asked about Eid greetings, and he responded, "I do not initiate it, but if someone greets me, I will respond to them."

From the various scholarly opinions, we can conclude that saying "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" is not a blameworthy bidah but rather a good practice in line with Islamic teachings.

So, there is no need to hesitate in exchanging Eid greetings. What matters most is maintaining the sincerity and good intentions of spreading joy among fellow Muslims.

How Should Muslims Best Exchange Eid Greetings?

Eid is a joyous occasion for Muslims worldwide. After a month of worship during Ramadan, we welcome Eid al-Fitr with joy. Likewise, Eid al-Adha is an opportunity to share happiness with family and others. One of the ways we express our joy is by exchanging greetings. But what is the best way to do so? Did the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions have a specific greeting? How do Muslims from different cultures greet each other during Eid? Let's explore this topic further.

In many Muslim countries, "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" is the most common greeting. However, there are other variations, such as "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)," which is widely used in Arab regions.

This phrase carries a beautiful meaning: "May Allah accept [our deeds] from us and from you." It is a greeting that was exchanged among the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Additionally, in some countries like Turkey, people say "Bayramınız mübarek olsun," while in Malaysia and Indonesia, we often hear "Selamat Hari Raya, mohon maaf lahir dan batin."

In Islam, exchanging greetings is a way to spread happiness and strengthen brotherhood. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not specify a particular greeting, but he always responded to good supplications with similar or better words.

Scholars agree that exchanging Eid greetings is not prohibited, as long as the words contain goodwill and prayers for others.

Thus, the best way to exchange greetings is to say them sincerely, accompanied by prayers for fellow Muslims.

Regardless of different languages and cultures, the most important thing is our intention to share happiness and strengthen ukhuwah Islamiyah (Islamic brotherhood).

Conclusion

Saying "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" has become a common practice among Muslims during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. However, is it considered a sunnah? Scholars explain that there is no hadith explicitly stating that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)." However, there are narrations from the companions who greeted each other with "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)" (May Allah accept [our deeds] from us and from you).

Islam highly encourages spreading joy on Eid, including through exchanging greetings. This practice strengthens relationships among Muslims and demonstrates love and concern for one another.

From an Islamic perspective, exchanging Eid greetings is a good deed and is permissible as long as the words contain prayers or goodwill. Some scholars state that even though there is no direct hadith mentioning "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)," as long as it does not contradict Islamic teachings, it is allowed. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught us to respond to good words with something even better, as mentioned in the Quran, Surah An-Nisa, verse 86, which I have quoted earlier.

Muslims from different cultures have various ways of exchanging greetings. In Arab regions, people often say "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum (تَقَبَّلَ اللهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ)." In Turkey, they say "Bayramınız mübarek olsun," while in Indonesia and Malaysia, we are familiar with "Selamat Hari Raya, mohon maaf lahir dan batin."

What matters most is the intention behind the greeting—sharing joy and strengthening relationships. Beyond words, a smile, kindness, and a sincere prayer are also among the best ways to spread happiness on Eid.

Thus, saying "Eid Mubarak (عِيْدٌ مُبَارَكٌ)" is not an innovation (bidah) in a negative sense. Its purpose is to promote goodness and strengthen ukhuwah Islamiyah (أُخُوَّةٌ إِسْلَامِيَّةٌ: Islamic brotherhood). What is most important is to uphold Islamic values in speech and not treat it as a religious obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are six frequently asked questions about the Sunnah of Saying Eid Mubarak along with short answers:

Is saying "Eid Mubarak" a Sunnah?

There is no direct hadith from the Prophet (PBUH), but the companions used to exchange greetings with prayers like "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum".

What is the recommended greeting for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?

One of the recommended greetings is "Taqabbalallahu minna wa minkum", which means "May Allah accept (good deeds) from us and from you."

Is it permissible to say only "Eid Mubarak" without an additional prayer?

Yes, it is permissible, as it still conveys a good meaning, but it is better to add a prayer as practiced by the companions.

Does exchanging Eid greetings bring rewards?

Yes, because it is a good act and helps strengthen Islamic brotherhood.

What if someone does not say "Eid Mubarak"?

There is no problem, as it is not an obligation but a good and recommended tradition.

Is there a specific way to say Eid greetings?

There are no specific rules; it can be said in person, through messages, or on social media with the intention of strengthening relationships.

Footnotes

[1] An-Nisa (4): 86.

[2] Ibnu Hajar al-Asqalani, Fathu al-Bari, 2/3517.

[3] Muhammad bin Isa at-Tirmidhi, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Number 1956.

[4] Abul-Qasim Sulaiman bin Ahmad al-Lakhmiy ath-Thabrani, al-Mu'jam al-Awsath, 6026.

[5] Al-Maidah (5): 2.

[6] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), al-Adab al-Mufrad, 594.

[7] Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 2733, Ahmad bin Hanbal, Al-Musnad, Number 27559, and Abu Abdillah Muhammad bin Yazid bin Abdullah bin Majah al-Quzwaini (Ibn Majah), Sunan Ibn Majah, Number 2895.

[8] Muhammad bin Isa at-Tirmidhi, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Number 1930, and Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 2699.