History of Hari Raya in Singapore
The end of the Ramadan fasting month is marked by Hari Raya Puasa. In the Muslim world, it is a time for repentance, as well as for relatives and friends to strengthen their bonds. Hari Raya Puasa is marked by new clothes, beautifully decorated homes, and the exchange of invitations between friends and relatives. Not to mention the popular snack Hari Raya cookies Singapore.
Hari Raya Puasa falls on the first day of the tenth month in the Hijrah calendar. Because the Hijrah is based on the lunar calendar, the dates of Hari Raya Puasa differ from year to year. The first day of the Islamic New Year is not to be confused with Hari Raya Puasa.
Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid-Al-Fitr Day, is a major festival celebrated by Muslims around the world, including Singapore, to commemorate the end of Ramadan.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, is regarded as the most holy month of the year. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, not eating or drinking. Because fasting is one of Islam's five pillars, Muslims are encouraged to meditate and reflect during this month in order to cleanse and strengthen their faith.
Eid-Al-Fitr falls on the first day of the tenth month, Syawal, at the end of Ramadan. Eid is regarded as a triumphant and celebratory day because it acknowledges a person's victory in exercising self-control and command over his impulses. In Malay, the festival is known as "Hari Raya," which means "major (or grand) day of rejoicing."
The first day after Ramadan is packed with activities. Muslims will go to the mosque on Hari Raya Puasa morning to recite special prayers to mark the end of the month-long fast. Other customs include asking elders for forgiveness and paying visits to relatives and associates.
Many Muslims begin their pilgrimages by apologising to their parents for the wrongs they committed the previous year. While it is not compulsory for Muslims to visit cemeteries during Hari Raya, many do so in memory of loved ones who have died. They will also partake in Hari Raya cookie feasts in Singapore.
In Singapore, Hari Raya Puasa is a public holiday. Muslims celebrate this day by eating a variety of delectable foods. Beef rendang, ketupat (rice cake wrapped in coconut leaf), and lontong (a spicy beef dish similar to a dry curry) will be available (rice cake immersed in coconut gravy). Along with these, there will be Hari Raya cookies Singapore, cakes, and pineapple tarts.
A lampu colok, a small handcrafted kerosene lamp, was once used to illuminate homes. Decorative, flickering lights are popular right now.
Hari Raya Puasa was especially memorable in Singapore between 1996 and 1998 because it coincided with Chinese New Year. This was a significant step forward in Singapore's history of racial harmony. Singapore Hari Raya cookies complement Chinese New Year treats well.
Read more about the history of Hari Raya in Singapore - https://www.roots.gov.sg/ich-landing/ich/hari-raya-puasa
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