Festival Of Breaking Fast

That's what today is. The first of Syawal, the month immediately after the fasting month of Ramadhan is actually a festival of breaking fast. 1 Syawal and the days of the performing of the haj - 10, 11, 12 and 13 Dzulhijjah of the Muslim calendar, are the 4 days in the year where Muslims are strictly prohibited from fasting. It is also known in Arabic as "Eid Al-Fitri" roughly meaning "back to man's natural habits". So after 1 whole month of fasting, man returns to "Al-Fitri", hoping that the month before had trained him or her to be a better person in the eyes of God.

Today is a day of thanksgiving, visiting and asking for forgiveness. The young will approach the elders, the student the teacher and so forth. It can be quite emotional at times especially if you feel you had done some wrong-doings to the other person. When you clasp the other persons hands and say with sincerity, "Please forgive me for what I have wronged you the past year, whether I realised it or not." Somehow tears will automatically flow down your cheek! Especially among family members who always take things for granted. Dressed in their newest attire, after the special Eid prayers in the morning, Muslims move around the village, the state, the country in fact, visiting relatives and friends whom they might have not seen for some time. It's 'open-house' tradition in Malaysia where anyone, from all races, is most welcomed to one's house with smiles on all faces and laughter and merriment in the air. That is what is unique about Eid Al-Fitri.

Children are especially happy this time, for when they go on their rounds visiting the houses in the neighbourhood, they will receive small packets of "Raya money". Everybody is feeling extra generous today. In fact, Muslims are encouraged to contribute part of their earnings to the poor or those in need (i.e. if they have reached a certain amount) because 2.5% of what they earn does not actually belong to them. During Ramadhan and day of Eid Al-Fitri, they are extra generous!

And the food . . . . it's a gourmet's galore! The table is laden with a variety of food prepared by the women of the house. One has to be really careful because the eyes usually overide sensibility.

"Ketupat" - rice cooked in woven coconut leaves

But the main thing Muslims are reminded with - that they should be thankful to the Al-Mighty for showering upon them such abundance be it in health, wealth, family, friends, peace and prosperity.

Until we meet again next Ramadhan and Eid Al-Fitri . . . . God willing.