Editorial
The essence of Eid-ul-Fitr
Celebration with renewal of commitment to society
EID-UL-FITR brings with it a sense of joy we associate with a benign commitment to sharing it with others. Coming as it does immediately after the end of Ramadan, it is for all Muslims an occasion not only to celebrate but also to introspect and reflect on the degree to which we have brought themselves closer to the true tenets of the religion and how prepared are we to identify ourselves with the woe of the disadvantaged and less fortunate members of society. It is not enough to be empathetic of their plight but also to contribute our mite to serving the cause of collective well-being. Through a month of sacrifice and the process of self-purification we came to stage of giving zakat and fitra as a more than symbolic act of piety.
The Eid prayers and the embrace that follows are expressions of brotherhood, fellow feeling and solidarity of all people. In the mundane world, there is a surge in trade and commerce which has a lift-pump effect on the entire economy. The volumes of sale and business increases manifold with a rapid rise in terms of productivity, procurement and supplies. Also, new products signifying trade diversification come into the market with fresh merchandising, advertising and fashion designing. In catering to the varied tastes, the market achieves diversification with our export potential increasing to that extent.
There are, however, twin responsibilities and obligations that must accompany this overarching, buoyant trend. It is in keeping with the spirit of Ramadan and that of Eid-ul-Fitr, that the wealthy and affluent should have exercised restraint in their personal purchases so as not to have indulged in a show of wealth, even unwittingly. Such a deference to the feelings of the disadvantaged segments of the society is expected. Secondly, the traders and the business people could undergo self-examination as to whether they participated in fair business practices to spread their profits through larger volumes of transactions. Then there is the emphasis on safe home coming and return of the people who have been on the move.
Today, we renew our resolve to strive harder to build an egalitarian society, foster greater tolerance of each others' views and work for a stronger democratic society based on peace, prosperity and human dignity. We share our happiness, in celebration and in prayer, with our readers and people everywhere. Eid Mubarak to all.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments