Idul

Idul is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to designate an Islamic festival day. It is formed from the Arabic word Eid, meaning festival or holiday, and is attached to the names of two major holidays: Idul Fitri and Idul Adha. The spelling Idul is common in Indonesia and Malaysia, while more widely used English texts may refer to the holidays simply as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Idul Fitri, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, the month of daytime fasting. It follows the sighting of the new moon and the lunar calendar. Celebrations typically include special prayers, feasting, visiting relatives, acts of charity, and community gatherings. In Indonesia the holiday is often called Lebaran, a term reflecting the end of the fasting period and social openness, with many households welcoming guests for open-house visits.

Idul Adha, or Eid al-Adha, occurs during the Hajj season, on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. It commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, a test that was resolved by a ram provided by divine mercy. Practices include the sacrifice of livestock, distribution of meat to the poor, and increased charitable giving. The holiday also coincides with the culmination of the annual pilgrimage for Muslims who travel to Mecca, and it is observed as a public holiday in many countries.

Regional usage varies. In Malay-speaking areas the holidays are often called Hari Raya Aidilfitri (for Idul Fitri) and Hari Raya Aidiladha (for Idul Adha). In Indonesian contexts, Idul Fitri is widely understood, with Lebaran as a common colloquial name. In English-language contexts, the terms Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are typically used.