As mentioned in Top 5 Festivals of Singapore, there’s a festival known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, but what’s coming up is a similar Muslim festival called Hari Raya Haji or Eid al-Adha. This festival of sacrifice lands on the 10th, 11th, and 12th day the Dhul Hijja month, which ends up being 70 days after Ramadan. All three days being a time to remember, eat, drink, and be merry. In 2012, October 26th will mark this special day for practicing Muslims.
Hari Raya Haji celebrates the end of the Hajj, which is the largest annual pilgrimage to Mecca. The Hajj is a perfect example of the Muslim’s dedication to Allah. And observing the Hari Raya Haji Festival is no exception. The festival begins with prayer offerings at local mosques and then turns into bloody sacrifices. Sheep, cows, camels, and goats are slaughtered as a symbol of the Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to sacrifice his own son’s flesh and blood. It may sound gruesome, but that’s culture for you! After sacrificing the animals, their meat is passed around amongst the Muslim’s, especially to the less fortunate. Now the gruesomeness doesn’t sound so bad, right?
Hari Raya Haji reminds us to share with the community and to give thanks. The best part of the public holiday is enjoying a hearty meal with friends and family. Other traditions include wearing new clothes and giving gifts to children. If you are in Singapore on October 26th, make sure to visit Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam for bazaars, a great vibe, and a better understanding of this Muslim holiday.
Photo by Azhaaarry
