Hari Raya Aidilfitri: Meaning, Cultural Traditions and Customs
by Chloe Chan
Apr 7, 2024
at 5:08 PM
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a significant religious festival celebrated by Muslims around the world. It symbolizes the end of Ramadan which includes a month-long fasting and spiritual reflection. Allow us the pleasure of presenting the Hari Raya, what it entails, and how it is the cultural embodiment of this occasion.
The Meaning of Hari Raya
Hari Raya is a festival which means "Day of Celebration" in the Malay language. As Muslims come together to celebrate it manifests all the gratefulness they harbor for the blessings received during the holy month of Ramadan. This is a season of forgiveness, love, and unity as nothing heals a community like it does. Muslims celebrate the successful completion of the month-long fasting period and rejoice in the spiritual growth achieved during Ramadan.
The preparations for Hari Raya, start very early, as families and communities get together to clean and decorate their homes along with their extended families and neighborhood. Through the "bersih rumah" procedure, one not only purifies the body and the soul inside the human being. Houses pop up with a unique combination of colorful lights, national-specific decorations as well as alluring Arabic calligraphy lines.
A new attire, commonly termed as "baju raya," that is specially tailored for the Hari Raya festivity is of utmost importance. Muslims of this community dress in their best clothing, which sometimes calls for the wearing of traditional gazes such as "baju kurung" for women and "baju Melayu" for men. The new clothes represent the joy of rebirth, the festive mood, and a new start.
Hari Raya is a time during which happiness and family spirit is enhanced. The people's family and friends come together for Hari Raya pastry ning, greet each other, and have a sumptuous feast. The day starts with a special prayer called "the Solat Sunat Aidilfitri" which is performed in mosques or prayer grounds. Muslims express gratitude to Allah for being the source of their strength to finish the fast and ask for Allah's blessings to grace the remaining part of the year.
After the prayer, it is customary to visit the graves of loved ones to pay respects and seek blessings. This act of remembrance and reflection is an important part of Hari Raya, as it reminds individuals of the transient nature of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones.
Family and community relations are a major trademark ingredient of the festivities during Hari Raya. Muslims open their homes to guests, who are welcomed with warmth and hospitality. Traditional Malay food, such "ketupat" (rice dumplings), "rendang" (meat stew), and "lemang" (sticky rice cake) are part of cultural heritage and tradition and they are prepared and eaten during traditional ceremonies. This is the time when our family and relatives come together, celebrate, and share their abundance whilst eating these mouthwatering dishes.
Hari Raya is steeped in cultural traditions and customs that vary across different regions and communities. Some common practices include:
Giving of "Duit Raya": Elders give monetary gifts, known as "Duit Raya," to children and unmarried individuals as a gesture of blessings and goodwill.
"Berkat Rumah": Families open their homes to visitors, who come to seek blessings and exchange greetings. It is customary to offer snacks, drinks, and traditional sweets to guests.
"Bersalam-salaman": The act of shaking hands and seeking forgiveness from family members, friends, and acquaintances is an important tradition during Hari Raya. It symbolizes unity, forgiveness, and the mending of relationships.
"Bunga Manggar": Traditional decorative items made from palm leaves, flowers, and colorful ribbons are displayed outside homes and mosques, adding a festive touch to the surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Hari Raya only celebrated by Muslims?
- Yes, Hari Raya is primarily celebrated by Muslims as a religious festival marking the end of Ramadan.
What is the significance of fasting during Ramadan?
- Fasting during Ramadan is a pillar of Islam and is observed to purify the soul, practice self-discipline, and empathize with those less fortunate.
How long does Hari Raya last?
- Hari Raya is typically celebrated for one to three days, depending on cultural and regional practices.
Are non-Muslims allowed to participate in Hari Raya celebrations?
- While Hari Raya is primarily a Muslim festival, non-Muslim friends and neighbors are often welcome to join in the festivities as a gesture of inclusivity and harmony.
What are some traditional greetings exchanged during Hari Raya?
- Common greetings include "Selamat Hari Raya" (Happy Hari Raya) and "Maaf Zahir dan Batin" (Forgive me, both physically and spiritually).
