SHAH ALAM - Among the sunnah practices still observed by Muslims during Hari Raya Aidilfitri is visiting friends and relatives.
Not only focusing on close relatives and neighbours, but distant relatives and close friends are also involved in this noble practice.
In conjunction with Aidilfitri, Universiti Teknologi Mara Melaka Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies Senior Lecturer Dr Khairul Azhar Meerangani shed light on the practice of visiting among Muslims during Aidilfitri.
As an introduction, he said that Aidilfitri is a special gift for Muslims after sacrificing time, effort and wealth in performing various acts of worship during the month of Ramadan.
"Therefore, the celebration of Aidilfitri, besides having religious significance, is also a manifestation of the joy of Muslims every year and it is one of the religious symbols.
"Among the recommended practices during Hari Raya Aidilfitri are visiting each other and maintaining ties of kinship," he said.
Furthermore, he said, the practice of visiting is not limited to only the first day of Syawal, but it can also last for a month.
"The 'Open House' culture encouraged by organisations or individuals is one of the important platforms in realising this practice.
"There are many hadiths that highlight the virtues of visiting and maintaining ties of kinship. Among them is the hadith narrated by Imam Al-Bukhari: Whoever wishes to have his provision increased and his lifespan extended, then let him maintain ties of kinship," he said.
Khairul added the practice of honouring guests is also encouraged in Islam.
"Hosts are encouraged to provide good hospitality to guests, as it has its own blessings.
"The Prophet Muhammad SAW reminded us in a hadith narrated by Imam Al-Bukhari: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Judgment Day, honour your guest," he said.
No Time Limit
Answering the question of whether it is permissible to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri for a month, Khairul said that Islam only mandates the celebration on the first day of Syawal.
"However, the recommendation to do good deeds through activities such as visiting, maintaining ties of kinship, providing food, and giving 'duit raya' is not limited to a specific period.
"Therefore, this good tradition is not contrary to the principles of religion and can actually be continued as long as it adheres to the basic principles outlined by Islam," he said.
However, he said, amidst the excitement of celebrating Aidilfitri, Muslims should not forget the obligations of worship such as fasting six days of Shawal, as well as observing the times for prayers during visits.
"Furthermore, avoid extravagance and being ensnared by things that contradict the demands of Shariah," he advised.
Know Who You Can Physically Greet
Responding to the question about greeting activities, he explained that the culture of gathering and greeting with family and relatives is a beautiful moment that colours the celebration of Aidilfitri.
"Indeed, the practice of greeting fellow Muslims is highly recommended in the religion based on the saying of the Prophet: When two Muslims meet and shake hands, they are forgiven their sins before they depart." (Hadith narrated by Ahmad)
"However, this practice is also bound by Shariah guidelines, namely not shaking hands with those of the opposite gender and those who are not mahram," he said.
Furthermore, he said, not all relatives are considered mahram, even though we have a close relationship with them.
"From a fiqh perspective, mahram is defined as 'someone who is prohibited from marrying due to lineage, marriage, or nursing.
"Therefore, it is important for every Muslim to know their mahram before extending their hand for a handshake or revealing the common aurat," he explained.
He said that one of the often overlooked aspects is shaking hands with cousins and in-laws of the opposite gender.
"This close relationship is often misunderstood, leading to violations of Shariah.
"The Prophet Muhammad SAW said: "Piercing the head of one of you with an iron needle is better for him than touching a woman who is not lawful for him (non-mahram)." (Hadith narrated by At-Tabrani)
"Therefore, this matter needs to be given special attention so that the worship performed on Aidilfitri will receive the pleasure of Allah SWT," he advised.