Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Haji, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a Muslim celebration which commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to be obedient to Allah and to sacrifice his own son, Ishmael.

People in Singapore celebrate this religious holiday over four days and by engaging in acts of prayer and sacrifice.

Commemorating Abraham’s unwavering trust and faith in God, this festival marks the end of the holy pilgrimage to Mecca and thus is called the Festival of the Pilgrimage. It is celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic month Zulhijah, or the last month in the Islamic calendar.

Hari Raya Haji is a public hospital in Singapore and serves as a reminder for citizens to share their wealth with the less fortunate. It is also customary that Muslim people wear new clothes during this day and that children get gifts and money from their family members.

During the event, male Muslims will meet in the mosque for prayers and will thereafter sacrifice livestock to Allah. However, out of respect for their Indian counterparts, cows are never killed and instead they sacrifice livestock such as the sheep or goats. After the sacrifice, the meal is shared with family and friends.

All religions and races are respected and treated in harmony in Singapore, therefore everyone is welcome to join the festival. Head to Sultan Mosque if you want to observe this event in the largest Mosque in Singapore.