Eid is any day of gathering. It is derived from `Aada (meaning returned), because people return to it periodically. Some scholars say that it derives from `Aadah (custom or practice) because people are accustomed to celebrating it. Its plural is A`yad. Ibnul-`Arabi said:
"It is called Eid because it returns every year with renewed happiness."
Ibn `Aabidayn said:
Eid days are thus named because Allah renews His bounties in them; and He distributes His blessings to His worshippers. Thus on Eidul-Fitr, He permits them to eat after having been restrained from food; and He requires paying sadaqatul-fitr (the charity of breaking the fast) to the needy.
"And on Eidul-Adha, He permits the completion of Hajj (pilgrimage) with the final tawaf (circulating around al-Ka`bah); and He requires offering sacrifices and distributing their meat, etc.
"Also, it is customary for people to be joyful, happy, and to rejoicing during the Eid days."
"It is called Eid because it returns every year with renewed happiness."
Ibn `Aabidayn said:
Eid days are thus named because Allah renews His bounties in them; and He distributes His blessings to His worshippers. Thus on Eidul-Fitr, He permits them to eat after having been restrained from food; and He requires paying sadaqatul-fitr (the charity of breaking the fast) to the needy.
"And on Eidul-Adha, He permits the completion of Hajj (pilgrimage) with the final tawaf (circulating around al-Ka`bah); and He requires offering sacrifices and distributing their meat, etc.
"Also, it is customary for people to be joyful, happy, and to rejoicing during the Eid days."