Is forgiveness in Hari Raya losing its true meaning?

Question

Accepted Answer

Forgiveness During Hari Raya May Be Losing Its Profound Meaning

There is a sentiment that the traditional practice of seeking forgiveness during Hari Raya, often encapsulated by the phrase "Maaf Zahir Dan Batin," is becoming superficial. This ritual, which traditionally follows a month of fasting, may be reduced to a mere repetition of words rather than a deeply felt act of absolution.
The Ritualistic Nature of "Maaf Zahir Dan Batin"

During Hari Raya, the phrase "Maaf Zahir Dan Batin," meaning "forgiveness of the seen and unseen," is widely broadcast and exchanged. This practice involves asking for forgiveness from family and friends, often in conjunction with the giving and receiving of duit raya. However, the author expresses a feeling that this widespread ritual has become a hollow formality, performed after a month of fasting without necessarily embodying genuine contrition or absolution.
Personal Admission of Superficial Forgiveness

The writer admits to a personal pattern of accumulating minor wrongdoings throughout the year and then offering a generalized verbal apology to elders during Hari Raya. This self-confessed disingenuousness highlights a potential disconnect between the outward observance of the forgiveness ritual and the internal sincerity required for true reconciliation. Such a practice suggests that the act of asking for forgiveness might have become a perfunctory obligation rather than a heartfelt expression.
Philosophical Perspectives on True Forgiveness

Philosophical concepts, such as those discussed by Jacques Derrida, suggest that true forgiveness is an arduous and unconditional act, often reserved for the "unforgivable." Derrida posits that forgiveness loses its essence if it is performed to achieve a specific outcome, such as diffusing tension, gaining financial benefits, or even achieving peace of mind. Genuine forgiveness, in this view, must be unconditional and expect nothing in return, focusing on forgiving the person entirely rather than evaluating their actions. This ideal stands in contrast to the potentially calculative or conditional nature of forgiveness as it might be practiced in everyday social rituals.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Is forgiveness in Hari Raya losing its true meaning?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends