What is Eidi?

Detailed answer

Eidi is a gift, most often money, given on the day of Eid, especially by parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts to children. It is a cultural custom rather than a religious duty, but it is fully permissible and fits well with the joy and generosity that Islam encourages on Eid.

A tradition with many names

The word "Eidi" is used in South Asia. In Arabic-speaking countries it is called Eidiyya. In Malaysia and Singapore children receive money in small, often green, envelopes, and in Turkey children go from house to house and receive sweets or pocket money. The details differ, but the idea is the same: making Eid a happy day, especially for children.

What Islam says

Islam encourages giving gifts. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Give gifts to one another and you will love one another" (Bukhari, in Al-Adab al-Mufrad). Showing joy on Eid is also part of the Sunnah. When Abu Bakr objected to two girls singing in the Prophet's house on Eid, the Prophet said: "Every people has its Eid, and this is our Eid" (Bukhari, Muslim).

Eidi is not zakat

Eidi is a gift, not charity. It does not replace Zakat al-Fitr, which must be paid before the Eid prayer, or your yearly zakat. Giving Eidi to your own children does not count as zakat. Read more in the difference between zakat and sadaqah.

Tips for giving Eidi

• Be fair between your children. The Prophet said: "Fear Allah and be fair between your children" (Bukhari, Muslim). Children of different ages can receive different amounts, but avoid favouritism.
• Remember children in need. Many families also give Eidi to orphans or poor children in their community.
• Teach the meaning. Use Eidi to teach children gratitude, saving and sharing, for example by setting a small part aside for charity.
• Do not overspend. The value is in the kindness, not the amount.

Pair your Eidi with one of our Eid greeting cards for a personal touch.