Hari Raya Aidilfitri, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is one of the most significant celebrations for Muslims around the world. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is a joyous occasion filled with traditions, culture, and heartfelt reunions. Whether you are familiar with the festival or learning about it for the first time, here are some intriguing aspects of Hari Raya Aidilfitri that may pique your curiosity.
Why Is It Called Hari Raya Aidilfitri?
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is derived from the Malay language, where “Hari Raya” means “celebration day,” and “Aidilfitri” is of Arabic origin, meaning “festival of breaking the fast.” The name signifies the joyous end of Ramadan and the beginning of a new, spiritually refreshed phase for Muslims.
How Is the Date Determined?
Unlike fixed-date celebrations, Hari Raya Aidilfitri follows the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival falls on the first day of Shawal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, and its exact date varies each year based on moon sightings in different countries.
What Are the Key Traditions of Hari Raya?
The festival is deeply rooted in faith, family, and forgiveness. Some of the key traditions include:
- Morning Prayers: Muslims begin the day with a special Hari Raya prayer at the mosque.
- Seeking Forgiveness: It is customary for family members to seek forgiveness from one another, symbolizing a fresh start.
- Visiting Relatives and Friends: Known as ‘balik kampung’ (returning to hometowns), people visit their loved ones to strengthen familial ties.
- Giving ‘Duit Raya’: Similar to Chinese New Year’s red packets, children and younger relatives receive money in green envelopes as a symbol of blessing and goodwill.
Why Do People Wear Traditional Clothes?
Hari Raya is a time for dressing elegantly in traditional Malay attire. Men typically wear Baju Melayu, a loose-fitting tunic paired with trousers and a sampin (a decorative cloth wrapped around the waist), while women wear Baju Kurung or Baju Kebaya, both elegant dresses that reflect Malay heritage. Coordinating family outfits in vibrant colors is also a common practice.
What Are the Must-Try Hari Raya Foods?
Food is a central part of the celebration, and some signature dishes include:
- Ketupat: Compressed rice cakes wrapped in woven palm leaves.
- Rendang: A rich and aromatic slow-cooked beef or chicken dish in coconut milk and spices.
- Lemang: Glutinous rice cooked in bamboo with coconut milk.
- Kuih Raya: Festive cookies and delicacies like pineapple tarts and kuih kapit (love letters).
What Is the Spirit of Hari Raya?
Beyond the festivities, Hari Raya is about renewal, gratitude, and unity. It is a time to reflect on self-improvement, mend relationships, and extend kindness to the less fortunate through charity and good deeds. The essence of the celebration lies in fostering love and togetherness, making it one of the most cherished festivals in the Islamic world.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is more than just a festive occasion—it is a deeply meaningful celebration that embraces faith, culture, and the spirit of giving. Whether you celebrate it yourself or are simply curious about its traditions, understanding Hari Raya fosters greater appreciation and respect for this beautiful festival.
