Don't forget religious duties during Hari Raya

MUSLIMS were reminded to not forget their obligations during the festive season of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri as it is a moment to reflect and be thankful for Allah (SWT)'s blessings during Ramadhan.

Imams nationwide addressed this through their sermons yesterday which focused on the remaining days of Ramadhan and how it was vital to remember the importance of Aidil Fitri while at the same time remain grateful for blessings and teachings found in the fasting month.

Muslims were urged to not neglect their daily prayers in festive times as doing so is against religious teachings.

"What is hoped out of the celebration of Hari Raya is not just for happiness and fun but more importantly and primarily in receiving blessings and achieving the will of Allah (SWT)."

Despite the upcoming festivities, the sermon noted a number of Muslims who have been urged to follow other countries' moon sightings in determining their mark for Hari Raya. This was however ill-advised as moon sightings are difficult to determine and it is best to follow the Sultanate's official sighting.

As for Hari Raya, it is important to enliven the occassion with the recitation of the takbir in celebration but more importantly as an appreciation towards Allah (SWT) for granting Muslims the blessings of fasting during Ramadhan.

Reciting zikrullah (reptitive recitations of praises in remembrance of Allah) and sunat (voluntary) prayers were also encouraged during the nights of Aidil Fitri as part of celebrating the occassion.

The sermon also mentioned the recent introduction of three public holidays for Hari Raya this year as opposed to the two days in previous years.

This was His Majesty's desire as mentioned in his titah in hopes that people will have a greater opportunity in spending time with their families and appreciating the sense of togetherness. i

It was hoped that citizens and Muslims would be thankful for His Majesty's wishes in encouraging stronger family ties .

The sermon also reminded Muslims to fast for at least six days after the second day of Syawal as its blessings in addition to the full fasting during Ramadhan is equivalent to fasting for a year.

Muslims are also encouraged to continue their pursuit of blessing and ibadat (acts of worship) despite the conclusion of Ramadhan as its teachings should be practised throughout the year.

Imams also reminded Muslims to practise etiquette when visiting the homes of family and friends during Hari Raya which includes saying Islamic greeting ("Assalamu'alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh") before entering one's home, visiting during appropriate hours and various other common courtesy.The Brunei Times