Minister Of Religion Calls Nyepi-Ramadan A Momentum For Introspection And Respecting Mutual Ritual

Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas said the celebration of Nyepi Holy Day of Caka New Year 1946 which coincided with the beginning of Ramadan 1445 Hijri/2024 AD became a momentum for self-introspection and mutual respect for rituals and traditions. "atur Brata Penyepian, the right time for Hindus to conduct contemplation. Ramadan fasting is also very good for muhasabah for Muslims. So, both are momentum introspection," said the Minister of Religion, quoted by ANTARA, Sunday, March 10.

The celebration of Nyepi New Year's Caka 1946 Hindus welcome Nyepi with Tawur Agung Kesanga and Pawai Ogoh-ogoh. At the same time, Muslims welcome the fasting month with Tarhib Ramadan and Qyamul-Lail. The Minister of Religion said, both Nyepi and Ramadan, are good momentum for Hindus and Muslims to carry out introspection. Hindus carry out Catur Brata Penyepian, namely Amati Geni (not starting a fire), Amati Karya (don't work), Amati Lelungan (don't travel), and Amati Lelangan (don't enjoy entertainment/enjoy). While Muslims during Ramadan undergo fasting. In the spirit of introspection, mutual respect is very important, because of differences in religious expression. Nyepi Holy Day requires silence, while being active in filling Ramadan, is full of syiar (crowdyield) expressions. "Let's respect each other in undergoing their respective religious rituals and traditions," he said. The Ogooh-ogoh Parade and Tarhib Ramadan are expected to take place at a concurrent moment. The Minister of Religion asked the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religion of the province together with the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) and Forkopimda can regulate so that both of them can continue to run with the spirit of tolerance.

"I appreciate the steps taken by the Regional Office, FKUB, and Forkopimda which have regulated the implementation of the Ogoh-ogoh and Tarhib Ramadan Parade, so that both of them can continue to run well and orderly with a tolerant spirit," he said. "Happy Nyepi Holy Day Caka New Year 1946 for Hindus throughout Indonesia. Hopefully Hindus can continue to improve their quality in human relations with God, fellow nation's children, and with the environment," said the Minister of Religion.