How do I greet a Muslim man in a letter referencing Eid?

Question

Sorry for coming with such a lame question but this is the first place I thought of when the idea came to my mind, and it is not just a question for questions sake but I really do need some advice.

I want to write a letter to a Muslim man of quite high standing, but I am a Christian and know very little of the Islamic customs, but I want to be respectful without sounding false or patronising.

I want to reference Eid and call a blessing for this man; what is the best way of starting my letter, is there a set way such a thing should be done? Also I know from looking at this wikipedia page there is more than one Eid, do I mention which particular Eid or do I have to write in full?

Thanks and again sorry if this does not fit this sites format.

Would it be appropriate for me to say, 'Taqabbalallâhu minnâ wa minkum' when I am not a muslim? Would it be received well or could it be in some way insulting?

I am concerned that he may consider me a 'kafir' and by saying such things that he might take them the wrong way, where in fact I just want to be seen as respectful and trying to be considerate and understanding.

Answer 1

The most used greeting by Muslims is "Eid Mubaarak". It is normally acceptable by a very large majority of Muslims even if it comes from a non muslim.

Note the culture too..

Mostly all cultures use the above greeting. However there might be some other greetings which may be rooted in local tradition. So in order to cover that, you may have to ask around about this person's origin and proceed accordingly.

About his high standing..

In Islam, "high standing" is only in front of Allah. If this person is truly of "high standing" he will accept any nice greeting from you. Don't worry about political correctness.

About you being a kafir...

Contrary to popular belief, the definition of "kafir" is someone who rejects the message of Islam after knowing it. The nature of your question tells me that you have not experienced Islam. So I would request you not to even think such a thing of yourself.

As Muslims we do not wish this title on anyone, not even our worst enemies.

PS: Sorry admins for getting a little chatty, but there were other context that had to be explained.

Answer 2

This is not a lame question at all, allow me to thank you for being considerate and wish you a happy Eid as well.

Back to the question:

عيد مبارك Eid Mubarak (Have a blessed Eid) is the most common greeting, and entirely appropriate for all to use.

كل عام وأنتم بخير Kul 'aam wa antum bekhair (May you stay well with every year that passes) is another popular one.

It is also customary (in Arabic corrospondance) to add أعاده الله علينا وعليكم سنين مديدة A'adahu Allah alaina wa alaikum sineena madeeda (May Allah repeat this occasion for you and me many years to come), though this addition might depend on the recipient's skill in Arabic.