Hari Raya visits are sunnah, but moderation makes it meaningful

VISITING others during Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a sunnah and while generosity is encouraged, moderation ensures a meaningful and balanced celebration.

Karya Bestari senior Quran editor Mohamad Amiro Safwan Mohd Kamil said Islamic hospitality is about warmth and kindness, not the grandeur of what is served.

"Islam discourages both extravagance and miserliness.

"The goal is to create an atmosphere of warmth and sincerity, regardless of whether the meal served is elaborate or simple. Even a glass of cold water, offered with sincerity, can bring joy to a guest," he said.

Hospitality in Islam, he said holds deep significance, as guests have rights, including being welcomed with kindness and respect.

He said the Prophet Muhammad PBUH strongly emphasised honouring neighbours and guests, ensuring they feel valued.

This includes offering food, providing a comfortable space and speaking with warmth and politeness.

"Guests should never leave feeling ignored or unwelcome. Instead, they should depart knowing their visit was appreciated," Amiro added.

He said one of the most significant sunnahs during festive celebrations is Waslul Arham, or strengthening bonds of kinship.

While this naturally includes family members and relatives, he said it also extends to friends, colleagues and acquaintances.

He said by visiting one another, communities cultivate a sense of unity, love and appreciation, particularly after a month of fasting and spiritual reflection.

Amiro highlighted that preparing for guests, including tidying the house, reflects the importance of hospitality.

He said even in a modest home, creating a welcoming environment mirrors the practices of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH, who was known for his generosity when visiting companions.

Visiting loved ones also allows for deeper understanding and support within the community.

"Some friends or relatives may be facing financial struggles or personal hardships. If we cannot assist them individually, we can collectively offer help by pooling resources for basic necessities," he said.

The Prophet PBUH, he said encouraged mutual aid, reminding the community that if one person is in need, others should strive to assist according to their means.

He said this fosters a strong support system where kindness is reciprocated.

Amiro said another key sunnah is the act of providing food for others, a practice deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.

He said while feeding the hungry during Ramadan, especially at iftar, is highly encouraged, sharing meals throughout the year is equally valuable adding that in the past, villagers would send extra food to neighbours as a gesture of kindness.

"While there is no obligation to return the favour, it creates a culture of gratitude and strengthens bonds within the community," he said.

He also emphasised the importance of teaching hospitality to children from a young age. Rather than sending them to their rooms when guests arrive, they should be encouraged to greet visitors and engage in small conversations.

Introducing children to guests, even with a simple, "this is my daughter" or "this is my son" helps build social confidence and fosters community ties.

He added that meeting visitors’ children may even strengthen friendships among families.

"Small gestures like these leave lasting impressions and nurture a culture of warmth and inclusivity," he added.