It’s Not Too Late for (Unburdensome) Eid Visits! – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
It’s not too late to visit family and friends for Eid, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani notes in this timely reminder. He advises to connect these crucial ties with our ultimate motivation in mind – seeking the pleasure of Allah Most High.
Eid occurred about a week ago, with people celebrating on one of two different days, and our religion is one of difference of opinion. Shaykh Faraz reminds us that our tests don’t just come practically. Sometimes, the greater test is how we react emotionally and intellectually when people differ with us. We need to promote acceptance for others opinions, because the reward is in doing good, not in just being smart.
One of the neglected Sunnas is to visit others in Eid. Even of the days of Eid have passed, we can still do a “make-up visit.” particularity to invite those who might be alone, or the elderly.
Sometimes we may feel shy about our house not being perfectly neat, or not having a full meal ready. Shaykh Faraz reminds us not to have takalluf, or put on airs. He recounts a story where guests came to his house a day early, and were hastily served tea and coffee. The fact that the kitchen was messy did not bother them at all. The Prophet would cross the city to visit his Companions’ houses, who could only afford to serve him dates, or dried bread and vinegar.
May Allah help us simplify and unburden our lives, through the practice of the Prophet, Allah bless him and give him peace.
