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Hari Raya Celebration
Hari Raya is a time of celebration for Muslims all around the world. It is a time to come together with family and friends to commemorate the end of Ramadan and to reflect on the blessings that have been bestowed upon us.
Hari Raya is also a time for giving back to those in need, and for strengthening our faith. This holiday is a special time for Muslims everywhere, and it is one that we look forward to celebrating each year.
So continue reading on to know interesting facts about Hari Raya Celebration!
Fact #1: Fasting is one of Islam’s five pillars
Ramadan is a time of sacrifice when people abstain from immoral behaviors like drinking, smoking, and engaging in sexual activity. When Muslims practice self-control and give to those in need, it is time for sober repentance.
Fact #2: Pelita (oil lamps) are lit to attract spirits
From the 20th day of Ramadan, oil lamps, commonly referred as pelita or panjut in Singapore, are ignited to entice angels and spirits. During the Lailatul Qadr night, oil lamps also are believed to bring blessings and positivity into people’s homes.
Fact #3: Ketupat is traditionally served
Friends and family visit one another on this important holiday, share pleasantries, and enjoy the delectable fare. Ketupat is a sort of rice-based dumpling that is contained in a diamond-shaped, palm leaf-woven pouch. Along with other traditional foods, it is eaten as a meal during Hari Raya and is frequently used as a decorative item.
Fact #4: Children receive festive money (Duit Raya)
Older family members give children duit raya in adorable, colorful envelopes after they have asked for pardon. Once you start working and start earning money, you stop getting this holiday money and are expected to give it to the family’s younger members.
To show respect for the family whenever visiting a Muslim home during Hari Raya, you should dress appropriately and bring Hari Raya gift baskets.
Fact #5: Muslim pays Zakat during Ramadan
Muslims are required to pay yearly taxes known as Zakat Fitrah during the month of Ramadan. 2.70 kilograms of rice, or its equivalent, is the rate. Zakat, one of Islam’s five pillars, primarily acts as a welfare payment to the underprivileged and impoverished.
Fact #6: Traditional outfits are worn on Raya
Prior to Hari Raya Puasa, the majority of traditional Malay clothing had to be submitted to the appropriate tailors for tailoring (tempah). Many people have chosen to bypass the effort by just buying their clothes online due to their busy lifestyles.
Men dress in baju melayu for the occasion, while women wear baju kurong or kebaya. Families will certainly notice themed clothing that emphasizes the value of family.
Fact #7: Date of celebration is based on moon sightings
In the 1960s, moon sightings were used in Singapore to establish the first day of Hari Raya Puasa because the celebration is based on a lunar calendar. Your grandparents and other older people might remember that radio announcements used to be made when the new moon was sighted.
Today, however, astronomical calculations are used by the authorities, and the date of Hari Raya Puasa is known in advance each year. Both online and in the media, it is published.
Fact #8: On the first day…
Muslims in Singapore congregate at their local mosque early on the first day of Hari Raya Puasa to perform special Eid prayers in remembrance of the event.
Fact #9: A time for forgiveness
In addition to feasting, Hari Raya Puasa is a time for repentance and attempting to live a more moral life in Singapore.
Family members ask for each other’s pardon and blessings, starting with the young people going to the old. It’s a sensitive period, so you could witness a few (happy) tears.
Fact #10: Families often visit the graves of their loved ones
Some families start the Raya celebrations by paying respects to their loved ones’ graves. Muslims get up early to worship in the mosque and then visit the graves of their lost loved ones. Then it’s time to go house to house and have a huge feast.
Hari Raya Celebration
As the sun sets on another Hari Raya, we are reminded of the importance of family, friends, and faith in our lives. For Muslims around the world, this holiday is a time to come together and celebrate the blessings of Allah. We are reminded of the loved ones who are no longer with us, and we give thanks for the blessings that we have been given.
As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with hope for the year to come. May Allah grant us all peace and happiness in the months and years ahead.
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