Hari Raya Haji

History of Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Hajicomes from the story of ‘Akedah’ in the “Quran.” It chronicles the many trials and tribulations of the prophet Ibrahim. The most difficult task was Allah commanding him to kill his son, Ismail. Faced with this impossible task, Ibrahim wanted to defy his God. But his innate desire to please Allah resulted in him following through on the orders. The fact that he was willing to sacrifice his beloved son showed Allah Ibrahim’s willingness to give up what was dear to him, so in turn, both Ibrahim and Ismail were spared and honored.

For years, many followers of the Islamic faith believed that Ibrahim and his son were on a task by Allah to build the Kaaba, the square stone building which serves as the focal point of Mecca. Today Muslims around the world observe Hari Raya Haji, celebrating the end of the hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and commemorating Ibrahim’s devotion as well as his son’s survival. It reminds everyone of Allah’s mercy and bountiful blessings to those committed to doing good.

Hari Raya Haji is traditionally celebrated through a ritual in which a goat, sheep, or camel is slaughtered. The meat is distributed amongst the community, feeding the poor, friends and neighbors, and one’s own family, emphasizing the significance of sharing. Displaying the same values and dedication to the greater good exhibited by the prophet Ibrahim.

Hari Raya Haji timeline

2056 B.C.

A Prophet is Born

Prophet Ibrahim is born, some 1948 years after the world’s creation, in Ur of the Chaldees.

570 A.D.

The Final Prophet

Mohammad is born in Mecca and would become the founder of the Islamic faith.

628 A.D.

The Hajj Pilgrimage Commences

The initial hajj pilgrimage — the voyage to the holy city of Mecca, takes place.

2006

Twice as Holy

For the first and only time, Hari Raya Haji is twice in a single year, in January and December.

Hari Raya Haji FAQs

When is Hari Raya Haji?

In 2027, Hari Raya Haji is expected to begin at sundown on Sunday, May 16, with observances from Monday, May 17 through Friday, May 21. This date shift reflects its adherence to the Islamic lunar calendar.

How many Muslims celebrate Hari Raya Haji?

Globally, millions of pilgrims gather in Mecca for the Hajj, while countless more Muslims observe Hari Raya Haji in their home countries, participating in prayers and the ritual sacrifice.

What is the significance of the sacrifice in Hari Raya Haji?

Beyond commemorating a historical event, the sacrifice during Hari Raya Haji emphasizes compassion, generosity, and the importance of sharing blessings within the community, reinforcing social bonds.

Is Hari Raya Haji the same as Eid al-Fitr?

While both are major Eid festivals, Eid al-Fitr follows a month of fasting, whereas Hari Raya Haji is observed approximately two months and ten days later, with different spiritual focuses and traditions.

Hari Raya Haji Activities

Distribute meat to your community

As is tradition, an animal should be slaughtered to commemorate the orders from Allah to Ibrahim. Once the meat is ready, get the whole family involved in distributing the meat to the community to feed the poor and your neighbors.

Dress up in your finest

Men, women, and children of all ages should wear their finest clothing for the celebrations. This highlights families’ respect for their faith and commitment to celebrating the holy day.

Make sweet treats

It’s not just about the meat. Other food is added to the celebrations like unique sweets and dessert treats such as ma’amoul. People then gather with family and friends to eat and be festive.

5 Inspirational Prophet Stories From Islam

Prophet Muhammad: Education

He was commanded to seek knowledge for himself and in turn, enrich the minds of his people.

Prophet Yunus: Perseverance

He was sent to preach in Nineveh against idols and was met with defiance, which he overcame.

Prophet Ayub: Patience

After years of loss, illness, and hardship, he was blessed with sustenance from Allah.

Prophet Sulaiman: Mercy and compassion

Before crushing an ant’s nest, he realized living beings are equal no matter the size or shape.

Prophet Muhammad: Humility

While receiving revelation, he’s still humble no matter his education or enlightenment.

Why We Love Hari Raya Haji

It honors the journey

Hari Raya Haji symbolizes the end of the hajj, the holy pilgrimage to Mecca. It celebrates the sense of arrival at the end of one’s journey to enlightenment and the quest to be a devoted and true Muslim.

It conserves history and religious beliefs

This celebration honors and commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s trials and tribulations. It conserves the tradition and religious importance of doing good and being able to make sacrifices for your faith for many generations to come.

It brings families and communities together

The ritual of slaughtering an animal and distributing its meat to various community members keeps the spirit of togetherness alive. It also brings families together and puts a spotlight on tough times, perseverance, and celebrating life for people of all ages.