Parenting Perspective 

Eid is a time that should be defined by joy, worship, and family connection. However, when neighbourhoods begin to compete over who has the most extravagant decorations, children can start to measure the value of the celebration by outward displays rather than by prayer and togetherness. This shifts their focus from the spiritual meaning of Eid to a more materialistic one. 

Competition Overshadowing Celebration 

Instead of focusing on the blessings of the day, a child’s mind can become preoccupied with how their home compares to others. The spirit of community and shared happiness is replaced by a sense of rivalry. 

Creating Feelings of Inferiority and Exclusion 

Children from families with simpler decorations may feel embarrassed or left out. They might worry that their Eid is less special or that their neighbours will see them as less successful. Such comparisons create unnecessary stress and can damage their ability to enjoy the celebration with a grateful heart. 

The Long-Term Harm to Contentment 

If this cycle of comparison is left unchecked, it can weaken a child’s emotional resilience. They may grow up tying their self-worth to appearances and competing for validation through material displays, rather than through good character and faith. This can make them vulnerable to consumer culture and a restless sense of dissatisfaction. 

Guiding Children Away from Unhealthy Comparisons 

Parents can manage this external pressure by grounding their children in the true meaning of Eid. 

• Explain that Allah values sincerity in our worship, not the size or cost of our decorations. 

• Emphasise meaningful family rituals, such as praying the Eid Salah together, sharing meals, and giving charity. 

• Involve children in creating modest decorations at home that focus on togetherness rather than on competition. 

• Highlight that every family celebrates differently, and that true joy is not measured by display but by love and the remembrance of Allah. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that celebrations should be expressions of gratitude and humility, not opportunities for competition and pride. The pressure to create extravagant displays for Eid goes against the core values of simplicity and sincerity. 

A Quranic Reminder on Excess 

The Quran warns that excess and wasteful competition in spending are spiritually harmful acts that strip away the blessings of gratitude. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 27: 

‘Indeed, those who are extravagant (i.e. wasteful of their wealth) these are the brothers of the Satan, as the Satan has always been ungrateful to his Sustainer.‘ 

This verse reminds us that vanity and wastefulness turn blessings into a source of sin. 

The Prophetic Teaching on Modesty 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that the qualities beloved by Allah are gentleness and balance, not extravagance and showing off. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6927, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Allah is gentle and loves gentleness in all matters.’ 

This hadith shows that a modest and gentle approach to life, especially in times of celebration, is more pleasing to Allah than competitive displays. 

By teaching children that Eid is about kindness, prayer, and unity, parents can strengthen their gratitude and protect them from envy. This ensures they carry forward the true spirit of the celebration, which is found in simplicity, generosity, and a joy that is rooted in faith.