Internewshub - As the fasting month nears its end, we reflect on the profound meaning behind the upcoming Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr is not just about celebration and new clothes but goes deeper than that. According to Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) sources, this auspicious day teaches us to reflect, be grateful, and celebrate purity after observing Ramadan's fast Ramadan.
The true meaning of Eid al-Fitr lies in self-reflection, returning to the Islamic essence, and cleansing oneself from sin and wrongdoing. This is reflected in the tradition of giving zakat al-Fitr as a form of gratitude and sharing with others and in the spirit of forgiving each other for past mistakes.
Etymologically, Eid al-Fitr combines two words: "id," which means return, and "al-fitr," which represents purity and breaking the fast. In this context, "breaking the fast" refers to the tradition of Prophet Muhammad SAW, who always began Eid al-Fitr by eating some dates.
However, in Indonesia, the term "Lebaran" is more commonly used to refer to Eid al-Fitr. Although there is no definite source for the origin of the word "Lebaran," several theories are circulating. One of them suggests that "Lebaran" comes from a Hindu tradition meaning "finished" or "completed," signifying the end of Ramadan. There is also the view that "Lebaran" comes from the word "lebar," symbolizing an open heart and willingness to forgive.
The traditions of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia are very diverse, with each region unique. From the tradition of "mudik" (returning to one's hometown) and "takbiran" (reciting the takbir) to buying new clothes, all are part of the distinctive celebrations in this homeland. And, of course, Muslim communities celebrate Eid al-Fitr in every country with different traditions and customs.
1. Ketupat
 |
| Ketupat |
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, decorative ketupat ornaments adorn everywhere, including malls or shopping centers. Ketupat has become a tradition of Eid in the homeland. Even symbols on greeting cards, parcels, and public locations use images of ketupat.
During Eid, ketupat isn't just a picture or decoration. It becomes a delicious menu enjoyed by all. Always present at the dining table to accompany families celebrating the blessed day. Ketupat's skin is made from woven coconut leaves or janur, filled with rice, then cooked until it becomes dense and shaped like a ketupat.
They are usually eaten with chicken or rendang, spicy liver sambal, chicken satay, or chayote vegetables. It tastes truly delightful, especially while gathering with parents and extended family.
Legend has it that Sunan Kalijaga introduced ketupat as an Eid dish to Javanese society. Ketupat also holds a philosophy with three meanings on Eid day. Firstly, its intricate weave reflects many human errors in various aspects of life.
Secondly, perfection. Despite its intricate weave, it ultimately becomes a unity, just like Muslims worldwide on Eid al-Fitr. Lastly, it symbolizes purity of heart, seen from the ketupat being split in half and showing a white color inside.
2. New Clothes
Are you shopping for new clothes before Eid? It's a common practice in Indonesia. Buying new clothes is a must for some people. It feels incomplete to celebrate Eid without wearing new clothes.
No wonder malls or shopping centers are crowded with visitors every Ramadan and before Eid. Many merchants offer discounts, special prices, and other attractive promos.
There's a belief that wearing new clothes on Eid symbolizes the essence of Eid itself, which is returning to a pure and innocent state like a newborn baby. But it's important not to force yourself to buy new clothes, especially not to splurge on your Eid bonus or salary, because the most important thing is to celebrate Eid with a pure heart.
3. Homecoming (Mudik)
 |
| Mudik |
"Mudik" actually comes from the Javanese language "mulih dhisik," which means "going home first." It was then adopted into the national language to describe the activity of migrants returning to their hometowns.
"Mudik" is a yearly tradition in Indonesia that takes place before Eid—returning to the village to visit and reconnect with parents, siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, and other relatives. Usually, extended families will gather on Eid al-Fitr. The peak of the mudik traffic is generally a week before Eid.
From far in advance, people have been scrambling to hunt for mudik tickets for those who want to use public transportation, such as buses, trains, planes, or ships. This is to avoid running out of tickets and to find the cheapest prices because if you buy them close to the departure date or spontaneously, the prices will be very high. You might even end up not getting a ticket.
The meaning of mudik is to remind everyone of their birthplace and where they were raised. You can wander or travel as far as you want but remember your hometown, especially your parents.
However, migrants often use the mudik moment to show off their success or achievements in the city. Eid, usually an extended holiday, is the perfect time to break from the hustle and bustle of work.
4. Holiday Bonus (THR)
The Holiday Allowance, commonly abbreviated as THR, is a tradition inseparable from Eid. THR payment is the most anticipated moment for the community, especially for those who work as employees, because THR has become the obligation of the company or employer. If not paid, the company can be subject to penalties.
The blessing of THR received by every worker will usually be used for various purposes, such as buying new clothes, going home, paying off debts, giving charity, or even giving pocket money to children.
So if young children are visiting your house, whether neighbors, nieces, nephews, cousins, or other relatives who are still in school or not working, they will receive THR.
5. Eid Cookies
During Eid, everyone fills the guest table with cookies to entertain visiting guests. There are pineapple tarts, cheese biscuits, snow princess cakes, peanut cookies, toasted peanuts, biscuits, and some even serve palm fruit, agar-agar, and other snacks. Usually, two weeks or a week before Eid, mothers are already busy making cookies, whether it's for themselves or for sale.
6. Takbiran Night
 |
| Takbiran Night |
Precisely on the night before Eid, there is usually a tradition of takbiran (reciting the phrase "Allahu Akbar" or "God is Great") around the neighborhood. Young people gather carrying drums and other percussion instruments and go around the village or complex while reciting takbir.
The sound of takbir also echoes throughout the mosques, and loudspeakers add to the lively atmosphere of the Eid night. In rural areas, the takbiran procession usually carries torches to light the way. This takbiran night tradition has become the culture of Indonesian society.
7. Social Media Updates
It feels incomplete not to share the joy of Eid with others. That's why some people post these precious moments on their social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and other social media platforms.
Usually, updates include status updates, uploading photos of Eid prayers and family photos, and even posting videos of gatherings or outings with family using hashtags.
This kind of thing has become a culture. So get ready; your timeline will be filled with Eid celebration updates from your friends, including those who travel abroad to celebrate the long Eid holiday.
8. Online Shopping
Online shopping has become a trend nowadays, especially during fasting and before Eid, when traffic increases. Online shopping is now more favored than offline shopping. Shopping for clothes, gadgets, or even groceries is more practical, easy, and cheap because there are usually many attractive promos offered.
The most purchased items by men and women during Ramadan are, for men, digital products (credit, PLN tokens, data packages, game vouchers), fashion, daily necessities, electronics, and household products. For women, it includes fashion, beauty, digital, daily necessities, and household products.
8. Outings
To fill the long Eid holiday, whether going home or not, people usually spend time on outings. It's no wonder that almost all tourist attractions are flooded with visitors. Tourist attractions such as Ancol, Dufan, Ragunan Zoo, TMII, Monas, Waterbom, Snowbay, Taman Safari, The Jungle, and other tourist spots can be overcrowded.
Gathering with extended family, going out and laughing together, and sharing stories is an invaluable genuine happiness. When else, it's rare. Take advantage of the Eid moment to socialize. With socializing, you extend your life and increase your sustenance.
For those who don't go home, the long Eid holiday is usually used for domestic or overseas vacations. Sometimes, some have bought tickets prepared well in advance, specifically for a holiday during Eid.
Happy Celebrating Eid al-Fitr
So those are the facts and unique traditions of celebrating Eid in Indonesia. Which traditions are often followed or famous in your hometown? Whatever the tradition, one thing is sure: on the Day of Victory.