This year’s Eid sermon called on people to avoid insulting or ridiculing others in the name of celebrating Eid, while urging Muslims to uphold Islamic values during festivities.

The sermon said that although Eid is a time for joy, celebration and permissible entertainment, people should refrain from behavior considered contrary to Islamic teachings. It specifically cautioned against mockery, cross-dressing and sporting activities involving mixed genders.

It also urged organizers of Eid events to fear Allah and avoid activities that contradict Islamic principles or imitate the symbols and practices of other religions.

The sermon advised Muslims to celebrate Eid in accordance with Islamic traditions and the standards of Islamic Sharia.

At the same time, it described Eid as an occasion for the entire Muslim Ummah to share happiness and celebrate together, calling on people to extend Eid greetings to foreign Muslim workers living in Maldives.

“As we celebrate this day in a peaceful environment, let us not forget that parts of the Islamic Ummah are in extreme poverty,” the sermon said.

It also highlighted the suffering of Muslims affected by war, hunger and displacement in different parts of the world, urging worshippers to pray for their safety and success.

“Prayer is the strongest weapon of Muslims,” the sermon said.

The sermon further encouraged people to reflect on the gathering of pilgrims in Mecca for Eid prayers and Hajj, while reminding worshippers of the Day of Judgement and the gathering at Mahshar.

It concluded by urging Muslims to forgive one another, purify their hearts and rid themselves of arrogance, jealousy and pride, noting that even “a grain of arrogance” would prevent a person from entering Paradise.