Tradition of Wearing New Clothes on Eid, Is it True Sunnah?

Kapanlagi.com - Eid al-Fitr or Eid is only a few days away. In Indonesia, there are various traditional customs related to Eid. One of these traditions is wearing new clothes. Although it cannot be determined since when this tradition started, it has become an inseparable part of Eid celebrations in Indonesia. In fact, it is often believed that Eid is not complete without buying new clothes.

However, not everyone follows the tradition of buying clothes during Eid. Some people choose to wear clothes that are already available. However, interestingly, the tradition of wearing new clothes on Eid is often referred to as part of the sunnah in Islam that can be done on Eid al-Fitr. Is it true?

Instead of continuously wondering, let's directly look at the explanation regarding the tradition of wearing new clothes on Eid below:

1. Law of Wearing New Clothes on Eid

Law of Wearing New Clothes on Eid (credit: unsplash)

Wearing new clothes on Eid has symbolic meaning and can bring joy and new spirit in welcoming the festive day. In addition, new clothes are often considered as a symbol of purity of one's soul on the festive day.

In Islam, there is no specific rule that requires Muslims to wear new clothes on Eid. This is more of a cultural and traditional belief held by society, without any religious basis.

This is in line with what Buya Yahya explained in one of his lectures that aired on the Al Bahjah TV YouTube channel.

"In the fiqh book, it is recommended to wear new clothes. But remember, Eid is not about new clothes. It is about increasing one's faith," said Buya.

However, Buya Yahya also added that wearing new clothes on Eid is a good thing. But it should not burden or force anyone to buy new clothes. Buya also mentioned that pleasing others, especially family members, by buying them new clothes is a recommended practice, making it highly encouraged.

"The important thing is to cover the aurat (parts of the body that should be covered). Only then, if there is an increase in sustenance, it is recommended to please the family on Eid with something, whether it's delicious food or nice clothes," added Buya Yahya.

2. Recommendation to Wear the Best Clothes

Wearing the Best Clothes (credit: unsplash)

Although wearing new clothes on the festive day is not mandatory, in Islam, there is a recommendation to wear the best clothes on Eid. This recommendation even comes directly from the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. Among the hadiths, it is stated:

Narrated by Al-Hasan bin Ali RA, he said, "The Prophet Muhammad SAW commanded us on the two festive days to wear the best clothes that we find". (HR Al-Baihaqi and Al-Hakim).

In addition to the above hadith, the recommendation to wear the best clothes on Eid or Idulfitri is also found in the following hadith:

"Narrated by Nafi', that Ibn Umar RA wore his best clothes on the two festive days." (HR Al-Baihaqi and Ibn Abid Dunya with a valid chain of narrators).

So instead of wearing new clothes, Islam recommends its followers to wear the best clothes on the day of Eid. However, it seems that Muslims, especially in the homeland, interpret the phrase "best clothes" in this recommendation as new clothes. Therefore, from the past until now, wearing new clothes on Eid has become a tradition that is continuously preserved.

3. Tips for Choosing the Best Clothes on Hari Raya

Tips for Choosing the Best Clothes on Hari Raya (credit: unsplash)

Wearing the best clothes during Hari Raya Idulfitri is a common tradition in Indonesia. However, along with the values of Islam, it is important to pay attention to the recommendations related to the selection and use of clothes during this celebration.

1. Modest and Covering the Aurat

One important recommendation in dressing for Hari Raya Idulfitri is to choose clothes that are modest and cover the aurat. Even though we want to look attractive and different, we should still choose clothes that comply with Islamic dress rules.

2. Prioritize Comfort

Choosing comfortable clothes will make us feel better and be able to enjoy the celebration properly. Pay attention to clothing materials that do not make us feel hot or uncomfortable when attending the celebration events.

3. Avoid Excessiveness

Avoid choosing clothes that are too flashy or excessive in decoration and accessories. Choose simple clothes that still give a good impression.

4. Respect Norms and Culture

Each region or community may have different norms and cultures in choosing clothes for Eid al-Fitr. It is important to respect the local norms and culture in our place of residence.

5. Avoid Showing Off

It is recommended to maintain a humble attitude in dressing for Eid al-Fitr. Do not use new or luxurious clothes to show off or belittle others.

Those are some brief explanations regarding the rule of wearing new clothes during Eid. Hopefully, it is beneficial, can answer the curiosity that has been there, and can increase faith as a Muslim. Amen.

(kpl/psp)