Minal Aidin Wal Faizin

(12/17/2001)

All of Indonesia paused on December 16 & 17, 2001 to mark the end of the Islamic fasting month of Ramedhan and the celebration of Lebaran or Idul Fitri.

Recognized as official holidays, Moslems conclude one month of abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours with gatherings at their homes. The introspection and contemplation afforded by the month of abstinence just past, flows naturally into two days of seeking out members of your community and family to beg and extend forgiveness for all your transgressions, both intended or otherwise. Nor is this practice limited to only Islamic circles, as Moslems open their homes to neighbors offering refreshment and their hands in fellowship to all who come in peace.

Conversely, non-Moslems will typically use these two days to visit the homes of Islamic co-workers and neighbors to extend the traditional greetings of reconciliation - maaf lahir dan batin. Such was the case in Bali where the Islamic population, although a minority, enjoyed two days of prayers and fellowship with their Balinese friends and neighbors of every religious persuasion.

Cherishing a good idea, whatever its religious source - Bali Update and balidiscovery.com take this opportunity to ask forgiveness for any shortcomings committed over the past 12 months while saying Selamat Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1422H.