“Wait… didn’t y’all already celebrate Hari Raya?”
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been asked that, I’d probably have enough to host a pretty decent Hari Raya Haji feast.
It’s a fair question, though.
In Singapore, Hari Raya Puasa often takes the spotlight with vibrant bazaars, new clothes, and that satisfying post-Ramadan celebration.
But yes, Muslims do celebrate two Hari Rayas, and no, they’re not the same thing.
With Hari Raya Haji coming up on 7 June 2025, here’s a quick guide to what it’s really about, minus the confusion, plus a little heart.
Hari Raya Puasa Vs Hari Raya Haji: What Is The Difference?
If you haven’t caught on yet, Hari Raya Haji isn’t just “another Hari Raya.”
It’s a completely different occasion from Hari Raya Puasa, even if the name sounds familiar and the ketupat makes a repeat appearance.
Hari Raya Puasa
Simply put, Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is the joyous celebration that marks the end of a whole month of fasting.
It’s when we dress up in our finest baju kurung, gather with family and friends, and sincerely ask for forgiveness.
More than anything, it’s a heartfelt moment to count our blessings and embrace gratitude for all that we have.
Hari Raya Haji
Hari Raya Haji, or Eid al-Adha, follows a different path.
Unlike the festive atmosphere of Hari Raya Puasa, this day carries a deeper, more solemn meaning.
It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah’s command.
This time invites quiet reflection rather than grand celebrations.
Muslims gather for special morning prayers and perform the korban sacrifice, a powerful symbol of devotion and gratitude that lies at the heart of the occasion.
Do Muslims Need To Fast For Hari Raya Haji?
Source: Pexels
Unlike Ramadan, when fasting from sunrise to sunset for a month is a must, fasting around Hari Raya Haji is a little different.
It’s not compulsory, but on the eve of the festival, known as Wukuf, Muslims are strongly encouraged to fast on the Day of Arafah (9th Zulhijjah).
Why? Because it’s believed that fasting on this sacred day can wipe away sins from the previous year and the year to come.
Why Do Muslims Slaughter Animals During Hari Raya Haji? It’s Not Just About The Rendang
Source: The Straits Time
Korban isn’t about stocking up on meat for the festive table. It goes far deeper than that.
The story traces back to Prophet Ibrahim, who was commanded by God to sacrifice his most beloved possession, his son, Ismail.
Just as he was about to carry it out, God replaced Ismail with a ram, revealing that it had been a test of faith all along.
Ibrahim’s willingness proved that his devotion to God came above all else.
Today, Muslims around the world perform korban by sacrificing sheep, goats, or cows, not as a celebration of death, but as a powerful symbol of obedience, humility, and compassion.
It’s also a clear reminder: faith should never come at the cost of human life.
Is Korban Considered Animal Cruelty? Here’s What Really Happens
We get it. Hearing about animal sacrifice can sound unsettling.
But korban is guided by strict ethical and spiritual rules that prioritise compassion and minimise harm.
Only trained individuals are allowed to perform the ritual, and even then, it’s done under tightly regulated conditions.
The animal’s jugular vein is swiftly cut with a razor-sharp blade while the takbir. “God is greater” is recited, ensuring the animal loses consciousness quickly and painlessly.
To protect their dignity further, knives are never sharpened in their presence, and no animal is slaughtered in view of another.
In Singapore, only selected mosques are authorised to carry out the practice, ensuring it is done with care, precision, and deep respect.
Where Does The Korban Meat Go?
The meat from the sacrifice is carefully divided into three portions: one for the person who offered the korban, one for their family and friends, and one for those in need.
This way, the spirit of giving is woven into the ritual, ensuring that everyone, especially the less fortunate, gets to share in the blessings of the occasion.
Is Hari Raya Haji Related To The Pilgrimage To Mecca?
Hari Raya Haji marks the grand finale of Hajj, the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca that every able Muslim is encouraged to complete at least once in their lifetime.
As one of the five pillars of Islam, Hajj is a deeply spiritual journey where pilgrims retrace the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad and perform powerful rituals of devotion and reflection.
One of the most symbolic acts is the stoning of Satan, where pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone walls (jamarāt) in Mina, each representing a moment when Satan tried to tempt Prophet Ibrahim, his wife, and his son Ismail from obeying God’s command.
While not everyone can attend Hajj, Hari Raya Haji allows Muslims around the world to honour its meaning: faith, sacrifice, and obedience to God.
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How Do Muslims Celebrate Hari Raya Haji 2025 In Singapore?
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