I learnt something new at work to-day.
I was watching Z. I no longer sit by her side. They'd removed the end cubicles and I've ended up opposite Z. Anyways, a goodly portion of the office staff are Muslim. And to-day I saw all the young part-time staff come up an very respectfully wish Z a Happy Hari Raya. with rather a long symbolic stream of Malay as well.
Couldn't understand it. So I asked Z.
Turns out, not only do they celebrate this day with joy and family and friends. Feasting, food, gifts and new clothes. But they also seek reconciliation and forgiveness. I guess I never thought about it. Z explained that come Hari Raya proper, she will turn to her husband and parents and seek forgiveness for whatever wrongs she thinks she has committed. And her husband will do the same for her. You do it up-wards : to your elders, senior relatives; and you have it done to you as well. As I witnessed in a way this afternoon. Apparently, it's a rather emotional day for Z.
Fancy that. I never knew.
Natural introvert, learned extrovert.
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3 comments:
Among Jews it's the custom to ask forgiveness of anyone you feel you may have committed a sin against in the Days of Awe--ten days between Rosh Hashonah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. I don't think there's a specific set of words involved, or that you have to speak to EVERY family member. But it does strike me as similar to these other customs...
Yup, that's what we do and it stresses me out cuz it's said in Malay to my relatives (and you know how good I am in conversing in PROPER understandable Malay) and I actually rehearse what I am going to say way ahead so that I get it right *laughs* But it's something that is real nice and yes, can be very very emotional affair especially for the older people. When we were younger, it used to be funny cuz we would look out and pick the 'best actress' (the one that would be weeping the most) and the 'best supporting actress', the one who is not as drama as the first but drama enuff. Wondering if the little ones now do that when they see the older ladies get all teary *grins*
Library Lady - I think it's fascinating that the Jews, Muslims and the Christians (roman catholics) have so much in common.... SO much.
Aw, Liza! Really? Damn! I had no idea, y'know....
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