The Festival of Sacrifice, Hari Raya Haji is celebrated with great devotion by Singaporean Muslims just as it is observed by millions of fellow believers around the globe. Having the status of a very significant event, this four day long celebration commences on the tenth day of Dhul Hijja, a holy month in the Islamic calendar. This festival lasts for 70 days after the month of fasting, Ramadan; it also marks the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage to the holiest site for Muslims, Mecca.
Hari Raya Haji also commemorates the readiness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael in total obedience to Allah. On the day of the festival Muslims gather in their mosques to dutifully offer prayers and listen to the sermons which are delivered. Just as a ram was sacrificed instead of Ishmael after the test of obedience, Muslims sacrifice livestock such as goats, sheep and camels and distribute the flesh to the poor. Sometimes those households which do not possess livestock offer money to organizations which in turn provide meats to the needy. Sharing the joy of the event with the less fortunate is a vital aspect of the celebrations. In Singapore, consignments of livestock are flown in for the festival.
To celebrate Hari Raya Haji Muslims attire themselves in their finest clothes and prepare a lavish meal to which relatives and friends are customarily invited. Visiting friends and relatives is an important aspect of the festival as it creates unity and fellowship in the community. Children are given presents for which the small fry wait expectantly. Above all, Hari Raya Haji is a joyous event when the entire Muslim community affirms its unity and fellowship.
Singapore is a highly cosmopolitan city with residents belonging to the Malay, Chinese and Indian communities along with expatriates of many other nationalities. Visiting Singapore is always a memorable experience with its unique culture, delicious food and array of sensational shopping opportunities adding to its allure. Unsurprisingly the city-state has established a reputation as a major tourist destination.
When selecting
Singapore hotel accommodation an excellent choice would be the Studio M Hotel Singapore. This fine
Hotel in Singapore offers quality amenities and service assuring a pleasurable stay.
