non religious festival essay

Religious vs. Non-Religious Belief Systems

Belief Systems
Key Figures in Atheism
M.A., Princeton University
B.A., University of Pennsylvania

Religion is a type of belief system, but not all belief systems are religions. Differentiating religious from nonreligious belief systems is sometimes easy, but other times rather difficult, as demonstrated by the arguments people have over what qualifies as a religion. Establishing a set of characteristics which tend to coalesce around religions can help, but that isn't always enough.

In the end, there are a few beliefs or belief systems which are difficult to categorize. Theism is perhaps most often confused with religion, even though theism by itself doesn't even qualify as a belief system whereas religion always does. Philosophy is sometimes confused with religion because the two topics tend to cover the same basic issues. Spirituality is often mistaken for not being a religion - perhaps because religion has acquired a bad name but people still want to retain the basic trappings and features.

Understanding how and why theism, philosophy, spirituality, and other beliefs are similar and different from what we normally think of when when think "religion" can help a great deal in understanding just what religion is. Some point to where the outer boundaries of religion lie, while others help us understand what religion necessarily includes.

Religion vs. Superstition Comparing religion to superstition will probably cause most believers to take offense, but there are too many similarities between the two for a comparison to be dismissed out of hand. Granted, not every religious believer is superstitious and some irreligious atheists are superstitious, but that doesn't mean that there's no connection between the two. Both depend on a non-material understanding of nature that seems to have deep psychological resonance with the average person.

Religion vs. The Paranormal Most religious believers will completely reject the idea that there is any connection between religion and paranormal beliefs. Outsiders, in contrast, will quickly notice that there are a number of similarities that cannot be easily dismissed. Paranormal beliefs may not be quite the same as a religion, but sometimes they come rather close.

Religion vs. Theism Because most religions tend to be theistic, and become theism is so central to the largest religions in the West, many have acquired the confused idea that theism is somehow itself the same as religion, thus ignoring everything else that goes into religions (including their own, oddly enough). Even some atheists have fallen victim to this error.

Religion vs. Religious The terms religion and religious obviously come from the same root, but that doesn't mean they always refer to basically the same thing. In reality, the adjective religious has a broader usage than the noun religion.

Religion vs. Philosophy Both religion and philosophy address similar questions, but that doesn't mean they are the same thing. Most obviously, philosophy doesn't depend on miracles or revelations from deities, philosophers don't engage in common rituals, and philosophy doesn't insist that conclusions need to be accepted on faith.

Religion & Spirituality It's become popular to imagine there is a hard and fast difference between two different ways of relating with the divine or the sacred: religion and spirituality. Religion is supposed to describe the social, public, and organized means by which people relate to the sacred or divine while Spirituality is supposed to describe such relations when they occur in private. The truth is that such a distinction is not entirely valid.

What is Animism? Animism is the belief that everything in nature has its own spirit or divinity.

What is Paganism? Paganism might be pantheistic or polytheistic, but is distinctive in that it relates to God or gods primarily through nature.

What is Shamanism? Shamanism is an animistic religion of certain peoples of northern Asia in which mediation between the visible and spirit worlds is effected by shamans."

Religion 101: Examining the Nature of Religion and Religious Beliefs
What's the Difference Between Religion and Spirituality?
Religion vs. Religious
Defining the Characteristics of Religion
Are There Any Atheistic Religions?
One or Many Gods: The Varieties of Theism
Religious vs. Secular Humanism: What's the Difference?
Beliefs and Choices: Do You Choose Your Religion?
Why Don't Atheists Believe in Gods?
Atheism and Skepticism in Ancient Greece
What Is the Difference Between Denotation and Connotation?
Defining Science - How is Science Defined?
Albert Einstein on Science, God, and Religion
Argument From Miracles: Do Miracles Prove God Exists?
Leonardo Da Vinci: Renaissance Humanist, Naturalist, Artist, Scientist
The Relationship Between Technology and Religion

The Happy Trip

FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES | Religious, Non-Religious

Religious and non-religious festival in the Philippines

LIST OF FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Here’s a list religious and non religious Festivals in the Philippines with descriptions and pictures. This post is progressive in nature. if you feel that your local fiesta deserves to be included in this post, comment below or send us an email. We also accept any invitation to cover any Philippine Festival.

The Philippines is known to have a long list of festivals. With these, it is a fact that the Filipinos enjoy the celebration and having to get together. Philippine festivals are very vast and all depict the culture and tradition of each of the places. Some festivity takes place within a day or a week, but some last an entire month. A lot of tourists have been attracted to these celebrations as it gives a colorful and energetic environment.

Philippines’ celebration of the fiesta is mostly religious in nature as this was because of the influence of the Spanish colonization. However, some festivity is a celebration to depict a significant event in the place’s history or to give thanks for an abundant harvest.

Starting at the beginning of the year, the first famous religious festivity that is taking place is the Black Nazarene Procession of Quiapo (every 9 th of January). Thousands of devotees are taking part in the celebration by joining the largest procession in the country which is usually called as the “translacion” or the transferring of the Black Nazarene from Intramuros to the Quiapo church.

The next one is the Ati-atihan Festivity of Kalibo, Aklan (3 rd week of January). The focus of the celebration is Sto. Niño. The street parade is characterized by the participants’ face painting and tribal dances with indigenous weapons and costumes. The Sinulog Festival of Cebu City also takes place in the 3 rd week of January as Sto. Niño is also the focus of it. Sinulog is said to be the most visited fiestas in the country, not only by the Filipinos but also by foreigners. Still honoring Sto Niño, the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City takes place in the 4 th week of January. At this festival, one can witness a big party on the streets – with bands and overflowing foods and drinks.

Meanwhile, in February, there is the Panagbenga of Baguio City. The parade of this celebration is very charming due to its floral floats and people dressed as flora and fauna.

In the province of Quezon, particularly in Lucban, the very colorful Pahiyas is celebrated every 15 th of May. Vegetables from the “Bahay Kubo” song can be widely seen in the house’s decorations and visitors can just pick them for free. Also in the month of May, childless women come to Obando, Bulacan to dance on the street to honor and request the patron saints of the city to let them have a child. In the 3 rd week of August, there is the Kadayawan celebration of Davao City. It is the biggest festival on the island and is characterized by flowers and fruits. Additionally, Bacolod City’s MassKara happens every October and every visitor will be overwhelmed by the sweet smiles and colorful masks in the street dancing competition.

On the other hand, there is also a fiesta that is unique and not very festive, this is the Moriones Festival of Marinduque and is taking place every Holy Week. It is a re-enactment of the story of St. Longinus and Jesus Christ. Participants of the event wear big wooden soldier masks and Roman soldiers’ costumes.

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES WITH DESCRIPTIONS AND TITLES

To know more of the various fiestas in the country, we have listed below series of articles about the popular festivity in the country arrange per month.

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – JANUARY

BAILES DE LUCES | LA CASTELLANA, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Must read: Bailes de Luces

LIST OF FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES Credits: WikiMedia Commons by George Parrilla [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

SINULOG | CEBU CITY

Sinulog Festival in Cebu City is a celebration held every January in honor of Senior Santo Nino is one of the biggest festivals in the country today. There are various ways to reach the place, including a ferry ride from Bohol to Cebu . Read more about Sinulog Schedule of Activities | Travel Guide

DINAGYANG | ILOILO CITY

Iloilo City’s Dinagyangcelebration is one of the biggest festivities held every January, also in honor of the Sto. Nino.

Must Read About Dinagyang Festival

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SINULOG SA KABANKALAN | KABANKALAN CITY

Kabankalan City’s version of the Ati-atihan Festival. Also held every January in honor of the Sto. Nino.

ATI-ATIHAN | KALIBO

Viva Pit Señor! This shout of joy is what can be heard as you attend the Ati-atihan festivity in Kalibo Aklan. Dubbed as one of the grandest festivity in the country, it is inevitable that a lot of tourists, either locals or foreign alike, take part in this most awaited celebration. The celebration happens in the beginning month of the year, January. Some of the activities that one may take here are the food hub hunting, music fests, parties, bargain shops, and a street dancing parade!

DINAGSA FESTIVAL | CADIZ CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Derived from the Hiligaynon word “dagsa,” the Dinagsa Festival aims to gather people together as a group and celebrate. This is a commemoration of the public gathering of the whales in the area back in 1967. Beginning from that time, the place is dubbed the “city of whales.” In the same manner, this celebration is also a way of honoring the patron saint of the place, Senor Santo Nino de Cadiz. They prepare ethnical dance and all other sets of activities which aim to make every visitor feel loved and welcomed.

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – FEBRUARY

BACOLAODIAT FESTIVAL | BACOLOD CITY

Bacolaodiat festivity in Bacolod City is a celebration of the Chinese New Year. Marked by a street dance competition, cultural presentations, chopstick food alley, giant lantern parade, and much more.

PANAGBENGA FESTIVAL | BAGUIO CITY

Panagbenga Festival is a month-long flower festivity celebration. Held in the city of Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines. Street dancing and spectacular float parades showcasing the flowers of the city are just some of the highlights of the festivity.

BABAYLAN FESTIVAL | BAGO CITY

Babaylan Festivity is one unique celebration that depicts the rituals and ceremonies performed by Babaylans in the olden times. Babaylans played a great role in the history of the place.

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – MARCH

KAAMULAN FESTIVAL | BACOLOD CITY

Claimed to be one of the most authentic ethnic festivities in the country. The fiesta is a celebration of the culture and tradition of the 7 tribal ethnic groups who are the original inhabitants in the Province of Bukidnon, namely: Manobo, Higaonon, Talaandig, Umayamnon, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon, and Bukidnon.

PINTADOS DE PASI | PASSI CITY, ILOILO

Another cultural festivity held in the province of Iloilo is the Pintados de Pasi Festival. People can witness performers artistically covered by the henna tattoo as their main ornament.

SINIGAYAN FESTIVAL | SAGAY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Must read: Sinigayan

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – APRIL

MORIONES, MARINDUQUE

Being held on the island of Marinduque every Lenten season, the Moriones festivity is a way of re-enacting the Roman soldiers as they execute the well-known biblical story of “Christ’s Passion.” Being here and getting to see how devoted people are in making this event possible, it will not only make one appreciate the people and its culture but more of the contemplative and philosophical life of Jesus. This street celebration is known for its tragic beauty, and at the same time, with the way, the locals present themselves in front of the people and visitors.

For more click here about Moriones

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVITIES FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL

BANGUS FESTIVAL – DAGUPAN CITY, PANGASINAN

The Bangus festivity of the Dagupan City of one of the beaming pride of the province. Specifically, it highlights the decorated houses using the Bangus fish and the street dancing parade having Bangus as the primary decoration. Harvesting Bangus is the top way of living in the province, and it is therefore acceptable that they express their gratitude by giving thanks to the bountiful harvest of Bangus. So, what is in store for you here? There are singing competitions, dance parades, food hubs, exhibits, trade and fairs, and late-night parties and concerts by different bands. Indeed, a vacation here during the celebration of this event is highly suggested.

For more about this festival click here – BANGUS FESTIVAL

PASALAMAT FESTIVAL | LA CARLOTA CITY

The Pasalamat celebration happens on the last Sunday of April. From the word itself, “pasalamat” literally means “thanksgiving.” The locals will offer different goods to their believed God, who resides inside the volcano, Kanlaon. The festivity brings people together as a celebration of life and every blessing in it. The best part of the event is the dancing of the Pasalamat Samba with the accompaniment of the local drumbeaters. The costume, the choreography, and everything about the competition of dances is worth the visit.

Pasalamat Travel Guide
AWED BY THE PASALAMAT GRAND PARADE
THE SPECTACULAR PASALAMAT FESTIVAL

PANAAD SA NEGROS FESTIVAL | NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Bacolod City celebrates the Panaad festivity in April. The word “panaad” literally means “vow” or “promise.” Just like all the other festivities, this one is a form of thanksgiving, and at the same time, a vow to co continue pursuing an ethical and moral life. In this celebration, a total of 19 towns and 13 cities in the entire province participates, making it one of the biggest festivities in the province. The exhibits, presentations, and competitions will undeniably excite every visitor.

Must Read About Panaad Festival

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IMBAYAH FESTIVAL | BANAUE, IFUGAO

The Imbayah celebration happens every three years only. In this festivity, the Ifugao people of Banaue showcase their cultural heritage and tradition. The word “imbayah” means “rice wine,” which also happens to signify the high stature of the people in the society. It entails coming up with a banquet with overflowing wine and food, surrounded with merrymaking brought about by songs and dances. The celebration can stretch up to 13 days, and these will be very exciting and fun to witness.

Here are the details of the Imbayah Festival

LIST OF FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – MAY [ RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS ]

MAGAYON FESTIVAL | ALBAY

Albay holds a special and incomparable beauty. The Mayon Volcano as the inspiration of this festivity creates tons of opportunity for fun and enjoyment as one immerses in the series of activities prepared for the celebration. The folklore of Daragang Magayon, which resulted in the creation of the beautiful mountain is well-known, so much as that different and varying tales sprung from it. Some of the activities which may interest you are the sports competition, the fairs which aim to promote the local culture and goods, and the performances which re-enact the life and love story of Daragang Magayon. Thus, the fun and excitement in attending the Magayon Festivity is indeed a memorable experience.

Here are the details of the Magayon Festivity

OBANDO FERTILITY DANCE FESTIVAL | OBANDO, BULACAN

The Obando Festivity happens in the town of Bulacan on May. The tradition and culture of it are rooted in the strong belief and hope. Every year, hundreds and thousands of couples who would like to bear children would go here and do the traditional dancing on the street. Anecdotes and stories suggest that if the couples are sincere and with their desire of having a child, their wish will be granted. The fertility dance is well-known not only in the country but also in the international arena. In return, parents who are gifted with children would dedicate their lives to making sure that the children will grow up as moral and God-fearing individuals.

For more read Obando Bulacan Fertility Dance

BALANGAY FESTIVAL | BUTUAN CITY

Must read: Balangay Festivity

MANGGAHAN FESTIVAL | GUIMARAS

Guimaras is home of the sweetest mangoes in the country. In the Manggahan celebration, locals are expressing their gratitude for all the bountiful blessings that they received for the entire year, this, of course, includes the sweet mango harvests. The cultural presentation, the overall design, and vibes of the town, and the lively and vibrant dance presentation on the streets will assure you of how people here value every bit of their lives. Celebrate with the locals and be with them as they welcome another year of a bountiful harvest.

PAHIYAS | LUCBAN

Celebrated in May, the Pahiyas Festival found in Lucban Quezon is a literal party on earth events. The merriment, paired with the lively dispositions of the locals will make you all the more appreciate the festivity. In honoring the Sint Isidro de Labrador, people are dedicating this festivity as a way of giving thanks. A form of gratitude that aims to make the world know that the place is far greater than what it seems. The harvest season is over and shall begin again, but their way of seeing things clearly about life and their tradition shall remain and shall forever be etched in their history. Thus, the Pahiyas Festival is more than just a festivity, it is a celebration of tears, joys, and everything in between.

BALANGAY FESTIVAL | BUTUAN

The Balangay Festival or also locally known as Balanghai celebration is a way of commemorating historical events. It re-enacts the historical arrival of the ancient migrants in the place while they were riding the Balanghai boat. Because of this migration, villages and organizations within the community were already prevailing before the arrival of the Spaniards dated back in the 16th century. The celebration which includes both dance parades and parades on water through the imitation of Balanghai are just some of the key features of this traditional festivity.

Here are the details of the Balangay Festivity

LIST OF FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – JUNE [ RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS ]

HUGYAW KANSILAY FESTIVAL | SILAY CITY

Please click here to read about Hugyaw Kansilay

PINTADOS KASADYAAN FESTIVAL | LEYTE

Warriors dancing on the streets while painted all over? Well, that is what the Pintados Kasadyaan in Leyte could offer you. The dancers would usually paint their bodies with different colors and patterns to resemble the early warriors. The event takes place along with the feast of Señor Santo Niño de Leyte on June 29. All the surrounding municipalities would usually join in the celebration by sending their respective teams or groups of pintado dancers. The colorful and lively parade is not only picture-perfect but is also worth the immersion. Attend the festivity and enjoy all the things that this festivity has to offer.

Cliche here to know more about the Pintados Kasadyaan

MUDPACK | MAMBUKAL RESORT, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Read more about Mudpack Festival | Travel Guide

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – JULY

T’NALAK | SOUTH COTABATO

T’nalak Festival held in Koronadal City, South Cotabato is considered as one of the most authentic ethnic festivities in the country today. One of the main highlights of the festival is the grand parade featuring the Tri-people of South Cotabato representing the three cultures merged in the place brought by the Indigenous People, The Visayan migrants of the area and the Muslims.

Read more about T’nalak Schedule of Activities

SANDUGO FESTIVAL | BOHOL

Must read: Sandugo

LIST OF FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – AUGUST [ RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS ]

BUYOGAN FESTIVAL | ABUYOG, LEYTE

Must read: Buyogan

KADAYAWAN SA BABAW | DAVAO CITY

Heading to Davao in the 3rd week of August means that you will be able to join the famous Kadayawan. Derived from the root word “dayaw,” which means beautiful and valuable, life is indeed teaming in this celebration. The gift of life and all its blessings is the primary reason why the locals go for this activity. As a form of thanksgiving and gratitude, the tradition and local culture of the province is evident throughout the festivity. So, if you happen to visit the place at this time of the month, I urge you to stay for a bit longer and wait for the celebration to peaks in. The little overstay will be worth it.

LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES – SEPTEMBER

SANDUROT FESTIVAL | DUMAGUETE CITY

Sandurot Festival held in Dumaguete City is an event that celebrates the rich pre-Hispanic history of the place that contributes to the diverse culture of the city today. The celebration derived its name from the Visayan word “pakig-sandurot” which means “reaching out or fellowship”.

MINULUAN FESTIVAL | TALISAY CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

TUNA FESTIVAL | GENERAL SANTOS CITY

Must read: Tuna Festival

LIST OF FESTIVITIES AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

MASSKARA | BACOLOD CITY

One of the most anticipated celebrations in the country today. Masskara held in Bacolod City is a month-long celebration featuring spectacular activities and fun fare. Masskara is a non-religious festival and sone of its iconic features include the use of smiling masks, colorful costumes, and fabulous headdress.

Must Read About Masskara Festival

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LANZONES FESTIVAL | CAMIGUIN

Camiguin celebrates its Lanzones Festivity on October as a way of celebrating the gift of Lanzones tree. As we all know, Camiguin is teaming with Lanzone’s harvests, making it one of the top products of the province. So, what can we see in this festivity? Some of the highlights of it include a cultural show which aims to show the people the resiliency of the locals through time, the lively street dancing, and the most-awaited beauty pageant. All in all, the festivity lasts for four days, and all of these are equally exciting and worth to witness.

Read more about Lanzones Festival | Travel Guide

HERMOSA | ZAMBOANGA

Must read: Hermosa

Travel Guides

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GUIMARAS ISLAND

22 Comments

For me, I’ll choose the best destination is the palawan because it is a tourist destination and it makes me proud of our country having such a beautiful nature. I’m looking for the upgrade of the island so that more tourist will attract.

I’m looking forward to improve more our best festival in our country because it’s also one of a tourist attractions. Having a festival that is tourist destination was making proud to our country

Give reasons why the Philippines should encourage other countries to participate in the festival. Answer: For me, we need to promote our festival in other countries because the festival here in the Philippines will see people celebrating the festivals who are happy, united, helping, loving, and giving. We will also see women, men, children, adults, gays or lesbians, anything or whoever celebrates the festivities with a lot of fun like a teamwork who works together and is united in celebrating the festival in the Philippines and should also be able to share and s

1. Give reasons why the Philippines shall promote these festival to others countries? Answer: For me we need to promote our festival in other countries because the festival here in the Philippines we will see that people celebrate the festivals that are happy, united, helping, loving, giving here we will also see women, men, children, adults, gays or lesbians anything or whoever celebrates the festivities with a lot of fun like a teamwork who works together and is united in celebrating the festival in the philippines and should also be able to share and show other countries that the festivals here in Philippines is unique at the best.

Celebrating Festivals is the way to show the different patron saint or most known products in each provinces. For me Philippines shall promote these festivals to other country because it shows that the Filipinos work as a diverse team. Because festivals are done by different people with different race, age, gender, religion, and color. And it only shows that a diverse nation can stand out as a team through festivals because it is a product of brainstorming. Promoting these festivals will give other countries an ideas that people will stand out if they are working together and make them realize how important teamwork is.

In my opinion, the Philippines should promote their festivals to other countries in order to demonstrate the various cultures and how the Philippines celebrates each tradition. It will also show the world that, despite our differences and traditional values, we can still unite. It is also intended to show to the other country the origins of being a Filipino or their cultural identity. Promoting festivals in the Philippines to make it easier to introduce the essence of being a Filipino to other countries. That Filipinos can come together despite their differences in beliefs. Festivals are also one of the reasons why tourists visit the Philippines. It piques the interest of others who want to learn more about the richness of Filipino culture. Because it attracts people from various countries.

A country possess a diversity of culture. Even at the very pick of each regions or cities of the Philippines, it depicts variety of histories, amazing delicacies, it’s unique and various customs and practices that can be seen through our festival that we are celebrating. Native ancestors of the past, their experiences, struggles, even battles to survive and their victorious endings only can be more specified and narrate in each story telling dances of each places unique festivals. Various festivals of the Philippines also incorporate on introducing us to the world and so it is a must that we should be proud promoting our festivals in different parts of the globe. Telling our festivals is like telling our history full of meaningful triumphs of the past and so we should embrace our colorful festival, spread its positive impact and show the world how colorful our county is.

The reasons why we must promote our festival here in Philippines is, first we the Filipinos proud for what we have, second to show the other countries that Philippines is one of the most tourist attraction, third what ever it is like pandemic we also show to them that even in a smallest way like gathering mass of celebration our festival. What ever it is the Filipino people proudly represent some our festival in other country.

Moriones Festival

During Holy Week each year, a biblical re-enactment is seen on the roads of Marinduque. What makes the moriones festival unique is that they tell a story in a very experiencing way. The “Moriones” these are men and women in costumes and masks replicating the garb of biblical Imperial and Royal Roman soldiers as interpreted by locals. Performed as a form of penitence, Moriones Festival is meant to portray the search for Longinus, the Roman soldier who pierced Jesus’ side with a lance during the Crucifixion. Christian or not, this religious pageantry is interesting to say the least.

The festival is also interesting because it starts at April 02 to 12 with mass and other religious activities filling the schedule, throughout the festival, the Morions not only parade their bizarre outfits and eye-catching centurion masks, but they also engage with the crowd through a dance routine, sword fights, and even pranks and surprises. But apart from the fun, the Morions also observe this week to atone for their sins.

That the food served to those who take part in the religious procession is all fish and seafood should come as no surprise. Being an island province, Marinduque is surrounded by waters and is therefore abundant in marine life.

Yes of course we must promote our festivals to the other country so that many people will come and enjoy and experience how we celebrate our festivals. Not just people but all gender and sexuality are free to go here in the Philippines. No matter what your color is and age we dont judge you, we appreciate you all. Every Filipino’s are so creative and competitive when it comes to festivals and cultures. They give all of their best to improve their performances.

The gruop or the hugyaw kansilay festival this festival is celebrating the legend of kansilay she is the fairy that fight’s the bad people. This festival is where the people has represented the street dance and the colorful costumes. All the participants has they own individual role of this festival and they own passion ,own visible or they own ability. One by one is they have a talent to sing, to dance or they act. Act like want they want like a disguise they character to perform very well. The participants also have they own attitude they a attitude like angry, sad and stress. Even they have a attitude like jealous and angry to their worn they do they best to perform good to this competition. Also we can see all of this behaviour to the person or this individual we they compare to each other person.

These various Philippine festivals should be promoted in the following reasons; It shows the culture and traditions of every group of individuals, for them to be aware of the Philippine diverse culture, for the culture to be widespread, to avoid disrespectful actions towards the festivals and it shows how diverse the Philippine festivals.

Diversity and teams The reasons why Philippines must promote the festival to other country so that the happiness will spread and also to put smile on everyone faces. By promoting our festival in other country for me is very important because through festival all people can unite as one and come together. Also through dancing we forget our problems, suffering, sad emotion, and the takes away the pain that’s why we must promote our festival to other country for the benefits of all.

Before I go any further, I’d like to express my pride in being a Filipino citizen, having been born and reared in the Philippines by both of my parents. As a native of this nation, I can attest to the fact that the Philippines has much to offer any tourist who visits. Every town in the country has its own festival that is held every year; it is not only held for fun, but it also signifies a remarkable event from the past that should be remembered. Every festival truly represents the culture and heritage of the town. The majority of the festivals are commemorated through street dance, in which locals of that town hold a competition between groups of dancers who perform in a competition with a specific theme. It has a Workplace diversity is about recognizing, valuing and leveraging people’s differences to enhance communication and team effectiveness. Its really need a teamwork to give thier skills to work together and achieve a common goal. Beacuse you are a diverse group of individuals that need support each other to showcase your talents and ability in performing. All they have to do is perform their dance in order for the audience to know the value of that festive event. Indeed, the diversity of the local inhabitants in that town is reflected in the numerous festivals that we celebrate. The Philippines’ Department of Tourism must promote the numerous festivities that our country has to offer. Not only to make them renowned, but also to appreciate the beauty of the local cities in general, as well as to showcase the wonderful community and local goodies available to visitors. Making vlogs or videos on what festivals the Philippines has to offer and putting them online will arouse people’s interest, and they will want to go celebrate the festival of their choice. It’s one of the most effective ways to promote something these days, and it works.

Answer: As the Philippines is one of the most popular country in terms of celebrating festivals every year. The diversity of people is such a hospitable manner especially in foreigners who likes to visit our country. And one of the reasons why Philippines shall promote these festivals to other countries is to show in the world that the culture of tye Philippines has a great impact to the people where they give importance and value their lives as together. Other reasons are some countries does not have festivals so that foreigners are excited to visit the Philippines because of the the colorful and beautiful fiesta in our country. As the Philippines having so much festivals, the filipino culture is giving abundance to our lives so that other fiesta represents as thanks giving for the bountiful life of the people as long as we respect others and valuing each life as we faced every problems in our daily lives.

We should promote our festivals in other countries for exposing our festivals who represent our traditions culture in our country. We need to show them what we have and Filipinos can compete other countries. And also festivals having a big space in our life as a Filipino citizen. Because this is one of our expressing ways especially in our culture and religion.

The MassKara Festival may be traced back to the 1980s, when it sprang from a problem. It was at a time when the province’s primary source of income, sugar, was at an all-time low due to new market alternatives.

For me as a Filipino we need to support and gave the attention to our Festival her in the Philippines beacaue they have a different kinds of festival her in our Country and also we need to promote this festival to other countries beacaue if wee need to promote our festival to other countries we encourage the other people to support our festival and also that have a promoting our relationship to other people and other countries that the philippines have a beautiful festival and Festival in the Philippines can gave a unity to the other people like a different Religion Deferent color or you have a a Disabilities everyone have a opportunity to enjoy.

The Philippines should promote its festivals to other countries primarily because it is one of the way to let other nations know how we live and what we believed. By doing so, this action will surely open new opportunities in business and tourism to gain more investments and profits. And most of all, promoting our festivals is sharing our culture to others in this way we will be able to establish better understanding and good relationship. Showing our true colors to other nationality is the best way to gain their trust and to build friendship which will be a way also for us to learn from them. Basically, when we are sharing our own to others for sure they will do the same for us ,and this will help us to be more diverse and acquire more ideas for the betterment of individual as well as the country.

We should promote Philippines to other countries for them to better understand our culture as a Filipino and how colorful our festival is that we should be proud of. To show the differences of all the festivals in the Philippines how it being celebrated and performed traditionally. Moreover, through each other’s diversity we became more aware of our own culture and traditions. And as a Filipino we should encourage and engage ourselves to better preserved and promote the culture and traditions that we had towards other countries to be well known.

The philippines should promote these festival to the other countries because some of these festival are celebrating the different kind of tribe here in the philippines with different culture that will promote the diversity to the other countries which other people in different countries will respect the culture and the physical appearance of different tribe. And they shall accept of what they are and it will promote less discrimation because of the skin color and culture the new to the other countries, because there are people on the other countries are racist they judge people which they dont like because of the nationality and physical appearance of human. Others are bullying and discrimanating just to embarass which they didn’t like. It shall be promoted to the other countries in order to make a diversity with no discrimination to the others nad make some friendly communication and happy and can built as a team.

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Authority, Community & Identity article

Religious festivals, community engagement and peaceful co-existence.

Community engagement is an important mechanism to maintain peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic and multicultural country like Indonesia. It is comprised of the active involvement by diverse members of a given society in mutually beneficial interactions. In Lombok, an island in the eastern part of the country and home to many ethnicities and religions, one way to generate community engagement is through public religious observances and cultural festivals. They can serve as a means for social integration, peace, and harmony, as evidenced in various events.

For example, people of different ethnic backgrounds and religious affiliations participated in the 26 th national Qur’anic reading festival in Mataram last summer. While the Hindu-Balinese deployed pecalang (civil guards) to safeguard the festival parade, Catholic students joined the choir team and sung the festival anthem in the opening ceremony. In another festival featured in the top image, called perang topat (a theatrical war using rice cake) in the area of Pura Lingsar , west Lombok, Hindus and Muslims gather, interact, and compete in religious and musical performances . On Christmas morning members of Radio Antar Penduduk Indonesia/RAPI civil force assisted the police to ensure the safety of Christians during their rituals. While this is a secular civil association with no affiliation to any one religion or ethnic group, a mix of Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and others make up its membership. Furthermore, the Ansor of Mataram Branch, the youth wing of Nahdlatul Ulama/NU (the largest Islamic organization in the country), has successfully sponsored multiple interreligious gatherings in remembrance of a pluralist figure, the late fourth Indonesian president and NU former leader Abdurrahman Wahid. It has also supported the congregation of Gereja Yesus Kristus Tuhan (GYKT church) in its so-far unsuccessful efforts to obtain a permit to establish a new church.

Cultural festivals promote community engagement along cultural and ethno-religious lines, lessening segregation through what may be extended contact in preparation for the event and establishing relationships and communication between groups. In order for public engagement to have greater positive impacts and reach, it needs to be “scaled up”, to borrow Robert Hefner’s word, by involving broader community participation. Scaling up public engagement requires integrating diverse groups into more religious and cultural festivals and other regular community programs. According to a senior Christian priest, there has been no systematic grass-roots peacemaking effort for the purpose of mediating Muslim-Christian tensions in Lombok since the 2000 outbreak of violence . Instead, what has continued is inter-group consolidation amongst elite and top figures. The Indonesian inter-religious harmony forum ( Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama /FKUB, a state body) holds regular meetings with state officials, the intelligence service, the police, community leaders, as well as other secular and religious authorities about the religious social dynamic, security, and intolerance. Those assembled seek to formulate the best mechanism to curb intolerance or violent conflict. For example, within a week of the destruction of a mosque in Tolikara, Papua, in June of 2015, the provincial FKUB board quickly responded to the incident by inviting all community and religious leaders to unite. This is an important mechanism, but it only addresses tensions at a certain level of society.

What has not been sufficiently developed are formal or informal encounters at the grassroots level which involve all community members regardless of their ethnic and religious affiliations. Religious cultural events or festivals help resolve this problem because almost everyone is welcome to participate and engage. Through such festivals, people interact and engage intensively, establishing channels of communication and relationships. The lack of positive exposure to diverse people is a major concern for efforts to eradicate intolerance. The failure, or at least the postponement, of the approval for the GYKT church noted above underscores the effects of insufficient community engagement with this minority Christian community. Recently, the FKUB of Mataram city issued a recommendation to the Mataram city government advising the GYKT congregation be permitted to build a church. However, the recommendation is now at odds with the opposition of the majority of the local community. While procedural or administrative steps have been fulfilled, intolerance remains a roadblock. The problem arises mainly because none of the GYTK congregation lives in the area where the church will be built. More importantly, the congregation and the community hardly communicate or engage in public events together. This leads one to ask whether a new religious space can be built in a community where no congregational members live.

In Indonesia, it is legally nearly impossible to erect a new place of worship that does not correspond to the majority religion in a given community. The Minister of Religious Affairs and Minister of Home Affairs Joint Decree No. 8 and 9/2006 require at least 60 local residents’ approval and 90 available religious adherents before a place of worship can be built. While in practice adherents to the majority religions in Indonesia often do not fulfill the requirement nor do they have serious difficulties in meeting it, religious minorities have often found it to be a major obstacle. They believe that the decree discriminates against them. However, the examples from Lombok suggest that the issue is not solely a legal one. Rather, it is also a cultural issue. The solution to this problem is often contingent upon the management of communication and engagement with the local community where the new place of worship will be constructed.

This can be seen in the cases of a church for the Gereja Kemah Injil Indonesia community (GKII) and a Christian college called Sekolah Tinggi Theologia Injili Indonesia (STTII). The GKII church does not yet have an official permit from the local government in Mataram. The GKII contends that it has completed requirements to obtain a permit that will give it the status of a permanent “legal” church, but it has not yet been approved. The priest of the church, however, does not consider this as important as the proper functioning of the church and regular services for its members. Every year, his church celebrates Christmas openly and invites local community leaders and sub-district heads. To gain community support, the church is involved in community social work, such as giving to charity and caring for the environment. A similar approach is taken by STTII. Although this college holds an official permit, it continues to cooperate with non-Christian locals (most of whom are Muslim) and comply with their social conventions, such as participating in community-based security at night ( ronda ), celebrating the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday ( mawled ), and attending burial ceremonies whenever a neighbor passes away. As a result of this engagement, the college principal suggests, non-Christian neighbors have never considered the presence of the college a threat. Indeed, the ability to build and maintain houses of worship in these cases may be predicated upon the positive esteem of their non-Christian neighbors.

The social and cultural practices which these two Christian institutions have adopted in their respective communities are by no means obligatory. Rather, the institutions are seeking the most viable way to negotiate a strict legal boundary or cultural barrier. The goal is to establish good communication and enhance social engagement. These are key parts of accelerating social integration. Further efforts by the parties concerned, including the state agencies, religious authorities, community leaders and non-government organizations, must move beyond elite dialogue to focus on strengthening and enhancing community engagement.

Photo Credit: Mohamad Abdun Nasir

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2 thoughts on “ religious festivals, community engagement and peaceful co-existence ”.

This is a good entrance gate to create a real peace in Lombok. Mutual respects among religious people in the local area will ensure churches in Lombok get legal permit from the government. Some religious communities in the local area enjoyed their freedom in worship activities as you showed at pictures. Unfortunately, some of them, not by picture, are still struggling to find a legal permit from government and non legal permits from their neighbors who area majority and different in faith. Indeed, some churches in the capital city and in west part of Lombok have permitted legally by government, however no one church in east Lombok, central Lombok and north Lombok have established church building and also it permit. Phenomenal issue are around the intimidation and sometimes oppression acts from the majority people group to the minority. Sadly, too often government powerless in resolve these problem. I hope and pray that one day minority people groups in West Nusa Tenggara such as Christians, Hindus, Buddhas and Confucians will enjoy their freedom in worshiping activities and build their churches or temples without any worry and threats from the majority people group.

Thanks for your comment. I agree with you. There are more tensions or disputes over a place of worship of the minority, especially Christians in Lombok, than what I described in this short essay. However, due to a limited space, I did not mention all these cases here. Only GYKT case is brought up here. However, in my research report, I will mention and discuss more cases of church disputes and analyze the roots of the dispute and the solution offered by the state, which seemed to be unsatisfaction to the minority. What I wanted to describe in this blog essay is one example of conflict and the best solution that helps resolve it.

Easter 2024

By: History.com Editors

Updated: March 18, 2024 | Original: October 27, 2009

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament of the Bible, the event is said to have occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly A.D. 30. The holiday concludes the “Passion of Christ,” a series of events and holidays that begins with Lent—a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and sacrifice—and ends with Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday (the celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his 12 Apostles, also known as “Maundy Thursday”), Good Friday (on which Jesus’ crucifixion is observed) and Easter Sunday. Although a holiday of high religious significance in the Christian faith, many traditions associated with Easter date back to pre-Christian, pagan times.

When Is Easter 2024?

Easter 2024 occurs on Sunday, March 31. However, Easter falls on a different date each year.

Easter Sunday and related celebrations, such as Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday, are considered “moveable feasts,” although, in western Christianity , which follows the Gregorian calendar, Easter always falls on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25. Easter typically falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the spring equinox .

In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, which adheres to the Julian calendar, Orthodox Easter falls on a Sunday between April 4 and May 8 each year.

In some denominations of Protestant Christianity, Easter Sunday marks the beginning of Eastertide, or the Easter Season. Eastertide ends on the 50th day after Easter, which is known as Pentecost Sunday.

In Eastern Orthodox branches of Christianity, Easter Sunday serves as the start of the season of Pascha (Greek for “passover”), which ends 40 days later with the holiday known as the Feast of the Ascension.

Why Is Easter Called 'Easter'?

St. Bede the Venerable, the 6th-century author of Historia ecclesiastica gentis Anglorum (“Ecclesiastical History of the English People”), maintains that the English word "Easter" comes from Eostre , or Eostrae , the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and fertility. Other historians maintain the “Easter” derives from in albis , a Latin phrase that's plural for alba, or “dawn," that became eostarum in Old High German, a precursor to the English language of today.

Despite its significance as a Christian holy day, many of the traditions and symbols that play a key role in Easter observances actually have roots in pagan celebrations—particularly the pagan goddess Eostre—and in the Jewish holiday of Passover .

Religious Tradition of Easter

The resurrection of Jesus, as described in the New Testament of the Bible , is essentially the foundation upon which the Christian religions are built. Hence, Easter is a very significant date on the Christian calendar.

According to the New Testament, Jesus was arrested by the Roman authorities, essentially because he claimed to be the “Son of God,” although historians question this motive, with some saying that the Romans may have viewed him as a threat to the empire.

He was sentenced to death by Pontius Pilate , the Roman prefect in the province of Judea from A.D. 26 to 36 Jesus’ death by crucifixion, marked by the Christian holiday Good Friday (the Friday before Easter), and subsequent resurrection three days later is said, by the authors of the gospels, to prove that he was the living son of God.

In varying ways, all four of the gospels in the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) state that those who believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection are given “the gift of eternal life,” meaning that those of faith will be welcomed into the “Kingdom of Heaven” upon their earthly death.

Passover and Easter

Notably, Easter is also associated with the Jewish holiday of Passover, as well as the exodus of the Jews from Egypt, as described in the Old Testament. These links are clearly seen in the Last Supper, which occurred the night before Jesus’ arrest and the sufferings Jesus endured following his arrest.

The Last Supper was essentially a Passover feast. However, the New Testament describes it as being given new significance by Jesus: He identified the matzah (or bread) he shared with his 12 apostles as his “body” and the cup of wine they drank as his “blood.”

These rituals would come to symbolize the sacrifice he was about to make in death, and became the basis for the Christian ritual of Holy Communion, which remains a fundamental part of Christian religious services.

As Jesus’ arrest and execution were said to have occurred during the Jewish observance of Passover, the Easter holiday is often close to the former celebration on the Judeo-Christian calendar.

Easter Traditions

In western Christianity, including Roman Catholicism and Protestant denominations, the period prior to Easter holds special significance.

This period of fasting and penitence is called Lent. It begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays).

The Sunday immediately prior to Easter is called Palm Sunday, and it commemorates Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem , when followers laid palm leaves across the road to greet him.

Many churches begin the Easter observance in the late hours of the day before (Holy Saturday) in a religious service called the Easter Vigil.

In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Easter rituals start with the Great Lent, which begins on Clean Monday (40 days prior to Easter, not including Sundays). The last week of Great Lent is referred to as Palm Week, and it ends with Lazarus Saturday, the day before Palm Sunday.

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, which ends on Easter.

Easter Eggs

Irrespective of denomination, there are many Easter-time traditions with roots that can be traced to non-Christian and even pagan or non-religious celebrations. Many non-Christians choose to observe these traditions while essentially ignoring the religious aspects of the celebration.

Examples of non-religious Easter traditions include Easter eggs, and related games such as egg rolling and egg decorating.

It’s believed that eggs represented fertility and birth in certain pagan traditions that pre-date Christianity. Egg decorating may have become part of the Easter celebration in a nod to the religious significance of Easter, i.e., Jesus’ resurrection or re-birth.

Many people—mostly children—also participate in Easter egg “hunts,” in which decorated eggs are hidden. Perhaps the most famous Easter tradition for children is the annual White House Easter Egg Roll , when children roll Easter eggs down Capitol Hill.

Easter Bunny

In some households, a character known as the Easter Bunny delivers candy and chocolate eggs to children on Easter Sunday morning. These candies often arrive in an Easter basket.

The exact origins of the Easter Bunny tradition are unknown, although some historians believe it arrived in America with German immigrants in the 1700s. Rabbits are, in many cultures, known as enthusiastic procreators, so the arrival of baby bunnies in springtime meadows became associated with birth and renewal.

Notably, several Protestant Christian denominations, including Lutherans and Quakers , have opted to formally abandon many Easter traditions, deeming them too pagan. However, many religious observers of Easter also include them in their celebrations.

Easter foods are steeped in symbolism. An Easter dinner of lamb also has historical roots, since a lamb was often used as a sacrificial animal in Jewish traditions, and lamb is frequently served during Passover. The phrase “lamb of God” is sometimes used to refer to Jesus and the sacrificial nature of his death.

Today, Easter is a commercial event as well as a religious holiday, marked by high sales for greeting cards, candies (such as Peeps, chocolate eggs and chocolate Easter bunnies) and other gifts.

McDougall, H. (2010). “The pagan roots of Easter.” The Guardian . Sifferlin, A. (2015). “What’s the origin of the Easter bunny?” Time.com . Barooah, J. (2012). “Easter eggs: History, Origin, Symbolism and tradition.” Huffington Post . Chapman, E. and Schreiber, S. (2018). “The history behind your favorite Easter traditions.” Goodhousekeeping.com .

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There is no God but Allah ﷻ and Muhammad is His Messenger ﷺ

Congratulating non-Muslims on their festivals

In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful

The issue of whether or not to congratulate non-Muslims during their festivals frequently becomes a topic of controversy when the season arrives. Muslims have to balance the duty to bear witness to our faith while at the same time cultivating good relations with our non-Muslim neighbors. These two concerns sometimes exist in tension and, as in all things, we ought to take a balanced and moderate approach to the issue.

The scholars agreed that it is prohibited for Muslims congratulate non-Muslims only regarding their religious rituals that express what Islam considers to be acts of unbelief.

Ibn a-Qayyim writes:

وَأَمَّا التَّهْنِئَةُ بِشَعَائِرِ الْكُفْرِ الْمُخْتَصَّةِ بِهِ فَحَرَامٌ بِالِاتِّفَاقِ مِثْلَ أَنْ يُهَنِّئَهُمْ بِأَعْيَادِهِمْ وَصَوْمِهِمْ … وَإِنْ بُلِيَ الرَّجُلُ بِذَلِكَ فَتَعَاطَاهُ دَفْعًا لِشَرٍّ يَتَوَقَّعُهُ مِنْهُمْ فَمَشَى إِلَيْهِمْ وَلَمْ يَقُلْ إِلَّا خَيْرًا وَدَعَا لَهُمْ بِالتَّوْفِيقِ وَالتَّسْدِيدِ فَلَا بَأْسَ بِذَلِكَ As for offering congratulations for rituals of unbelief specific to another religion, then it is forbidden by agreement, such as congratulating them for their holidays and their fasting… But if a man is tried by that and he anticipates the need to repel some evil from them, then let him walk to them and say nothing but good and supplicate for them to receive guidance and direction. There is no harm in that. Source: Aḥkām Ahl al-Dhimmah 1/441

The prohibition applies to lending support for specific religious doctrines and rituals that contradict Islamic teachings, but Ibn al-Qayyim makes an exception for Muslims to say good and kind words to non-Muslims, even to pray for their guidance and well-being.

In fact, there are three classical opinions, all of them attributed Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal, on the matter of congratulating non-Muslims on their holidays, visiting them, and offering condolences.

Ibn Muflih writes:

وَتَحْرُمُ الْعِيَادَةُ وَالتَّهْنِئَةُ وَالتَّعْزِيَةُ لَهُمْ كَالتَّصْدِيرِ وَالْقِيَامِ وَكَمُبْتَدِعٍ يَجِبُ هَجْرُهُ وَعَنْهُ يَجُوزُ وَعَنْهُ لِمَصْلَحَةٍ رَاجِحَةٍ كَرَجَاءِ إسْلَامٍ اخْتَارَهُ شَيْخُنَا وَمَعْنَاهُ اخْتِيَارُ الْآجُرِّيِّ وَأَنَّهُ قَوْلُ الْعُلَمَاءِ يُعَادُ وَيُعْرَضُ عَلَيْهِ الْإِسْلَامُ It is narrated from Ahmad that it is forbidden to visit non-Muslims, congratulate them, or offer condolences for them in the same way it is an obligation to boycott a heretic, and it is narrated that he generally permitted these actions and also that he permitted these on the condition that there is a likely benefit in it, such as the hope they will embrace Islam. This last opinion is preferred by our Sheikh Ibn Taymiyyah as well as Al-Ajurri and it is the opinion of the scholars that they should be visited to be presented with Islam. Source: al-Furūʻ li Ibn Mufliḥ 6/270

Some scholars prohibited congratulating non-Muslims on their holidays, while others allowed it with or without conditions. The clear benefit of maintaining positive relationships with non-Muslims in an increasingly globalized world can no longer be ignored. For this reason, many modern scholars encourage Muslims to offer kind words to their non-Muslim neighbors during the holiday seasons as long as we do not endorse their religious doctrines and rituals.

The basis for this opinion, among others, is that Islam encourages benevolence towards any non-Muslim that has not declared war on Islam.

Allah said:

لَّا يَنْهَاكُمُ اللَّهُ عَنِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يُقَاتِلُوكُمْ فِي الدِّينِ وَلَمْ يُخْرِجُوكُم مِّن دِيَارِكُمْ أَن تَبَرُّوهُمْ وَتُقْسِطُوا إِلَيْهِمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُقْسِطِينَ Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes, He does not forbid you from being benevolent towards them and acting justly towards them. Verily, Allah loves those who act justly. Surat al-Mumtahanah 60:8

Ibn al-Jawzi comments on this verse, saying:

وَهَذِهِ الْآيَةُ رُخْصَةٌ فِي صِلَةِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يَنْصِبُوا الْحَرْبَ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ وَجَوَازِ بِرِّهِمْ وَإِنْ كَانَتِ الْمُوَالَاةُ مُنْقَطِعَةً مِنْهُمْ This verse is a dispensation to maintain relations with those who have not declared war against the Muslims and permits benevolence towards them even if they are in a separate country from them. Source: Zād al-Masīr 8/237

Muslims are generally commanded to speak good and kind words to people.

وَقُولُوا لِلنَّاسِ حُسْنًا And speak to people good words. Surat al-Baqarah 2:83

Many Muslims today live in pluralistic and multicultural societies in which non-Muslims express their good wishes towards Muslims during the two Eid celebrations. The rule, in this case, is to reciprocate this kindness by sending good wishes to them during their celebrations.

وَإِذَا حُيِّيتُم بِتَحِيَّةٍ فَحَيُّوا بِأَحْسَنَ مِنْهَا أَوْ رُدُّوهَا When you are greeted with a greeting, greet in return with one better than it or return it in a like manner. Surat al-Nisa 4:86

And Allah said:

هَلْ جَزَاءُ الْإِحْسَانِ إِلَّا الْإِحْسَانُ Is the reward for good anything but good? Surat al-Rahman 55:60

The scholars also draw a legal analogy ( qiyas ) between the issue of congratulating non-Muslims and other occasions in which Muslims are clearly permitted to be kind to non-Muslims. For example, Muslims are allowed to share food with the people of scriptural religions (5:5).

Moreover, the Prophet commanded Muslims to respect the funerals of all people including non-Muslims.

Amir ibn Rabia reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

إِذَا رَأَيْتُمْ الْجَنَازَةَ فَقُومُوا لَهَا حَتَّى تُخَلِّفَكُمْ أَوْ تُوضَعَ When you see a funeral procession, then stand up for it until it passes or the deceased is placed in the grave. Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1245, Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi

Qais ibn Sa’d reported: A funeral passed by the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and he stood up. It was said to him, “It is a Jew.” The Prophet said:

أَلَيْسَتْ نَفْسًا Was he not a soul? Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1250, Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi

While Muslims are prohibited from praying for non-Muslims to be forgiven, as this matter is for Allah alone, any other good words of condolences and respect for the deceased’s family are encouraged.

Muslims are allowed to accept the gifts of non-Muslims during their festivals, even if they are idolaters celebrating an idolatrous holiday and particularly if this will establish diplomatic and peaceful relations. The only exception to this rule is that Muslims should not eat their meat if it was slaughtered in the name of a god besides Allah.

Ali ibn Abi Talib reported:

كِسْرَى أَهْدَى لَهُ فَقَبِلَ وَأَنَّ الْمُلُوكَ أَهْدَوْا إِلَيْهِ فَقَبِلَ مِنْهُمْ The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was given gifts by Khosrau and he accepted them, and kings would give him gifts and he would accept them. Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 1576, Grade: Hasan

Abu Qabus reported: A woman asked Aisha, “We have a nurse among the Magians and they give us gifts on their festivals.” Aisha said:

أَمَّا مَا ذُبِحَ لِذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ فَلا تَأْكُلُوا وَلَكِنْ كُلُوا مِنْ أَشْجَارِهِمْ As for the meat they have slaughtered, then do not eat it. Rather, you may eat from the fruit of their trees. Source: Muṣannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah 31986

Abu Barza reported: He had neighbors among the Magians who would give him gifts during their new year celebration and festivals. Abu Barza would say:

مَا كَانَ مِنْ فَاكِهَةٍ فَكُلُوهُ وَمَا كَانَ مِنْ غَيْرِ ذَلِكَ فَرُدُّوهُ Whatever they give you of fruits, then eat it. Whatever they give you besides that, then return it. Source: Muṣannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah 23773

Ibn Taymiyyah comments on these traditions, saying:

فهذا كله يدل على أنه لا تأثير للعيد في المنع من قبول هديتهم بل حكمها في العيد وغيره سواء لأنه ليس في ذلك إعانة لهم على شعائر كفرهم These narrations demonstrate that non-Muslim festivals do not prevent Muslims from accepting their gifts. Rather, the rule during the festival is the same as other times since it does not involve support for their rituals of unbelief. Source: Iqtiḍāʼ al-Ṣirāṭ al-Mustaqīm 250

Furthermore, the Prophet encouraged the Muslims to be kind and gentle in all matters. Kindness is one of the best ways to be a good example of a devout Muslim and to open people’s hearts towards Islam. In contrast, unwarranted harshness makes matters ugly and pushes people away from Islam.

Aisha reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

إِنَّ الرِّفْقَ لَا يَكُونُ فِي شَيْءٍ إِلَّا زَانَهُ وَلَا يُنْزَعُ مِنْ شَيْءٍ إِلَّا شَانَهُ Verily, kindness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it disgraces it. Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2594, Grade: Sahih

In another narration, the Prophet said:

لا يَكُونُ الْخُرْقُ فِي شَيْءٍ إِلا شَانَهُ وَإِنَّ اللَّهَ رَفِيقٌ يُحِبُّ الرِّفْقَ Harshness is not found in anything except that it disgraces it. Verily, Allah is kind and He loves kindness. Source: al-Adab al-Mufrad 462, Grade: Sahih

Based upon all this, modern scholars encourage Muslims to be kind to non-Muslims during their festivals and to express good wishes for them on the condition that we do not support any specific religious ritual or doctrine that is idolatrous.

Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah, the Egyptian institution that issues learned religious judgments ( fatwa ), concluded their investigation of this issue by stating the following:

ومما ذكر من الآيات الكريمة والأحاديث النبوية الشريفة وآراء الفقهاء نرى أنه من الإحسان أن يصل المسلم غير المسلم على كل حال من عيادة وتعزية وتهنئة وإهداء وضيافة وقبول هدية وما إلى ذلك وأن هذا الشأن أحد أشكال الدعوة إلى دين الله بحسن الأخلاق ومكارم الخصال والله تعالى أعلى وأعلم As for what we have mentioned of noble verses, prophetic traditions, and opinions of the jurists, our view is that it is a matter of benevolence ( ihsan ) that a Muslim maintain good relations with non-Muslims in every circumstance including festivals, condolences, congratulations, giving gifts, hospitality, and accepting gifts. What is more, this is one of the ways to invite them to the religion of Allah by good character and noble manners. And Allah the Exalted knows best. Source: Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah

In conclusion, Muslims are permitted to offer kind words and good wishes to non-Muslims during their festivals with the only restriction being that we should not endorse specific acts in their religion that contradict Islam. We are called to be witnesses to the truth of our religion, while at the same time being kind, compassionate, and having good relations with all other people.

Success comes from Allah, and Allah knows best.

Smiling mask at the Masskara Festival, Bacolod City.

MassKara Festival in Bacolod: Everything You Need to Know

Origin of MassKara Festival
What to Expect
Tips for First-Timers
Bacolod Tourist Spots
Ruins of Mariano Lacson’s Mansion
Campuestohan Highland Resort
Silay City’s Heritage Houses
Old Churches

Parade of colorful smiling mask at Masskara Festival, Bacolod City.

Join the annual colorful MassKara Festival in Bacolod, the City of Smiles. Find out about the cultural importance of this festival and what to expect when you take part in the festivities.

The MassKara Festival of Bacolod City is one the biggest festivals in the Philippines . Believe it or not, the festival has been giving local and international visitors the chance to have fun, drink, and party on the streets of Bacolod for over 30 years now!

Find the best Bacolod tours for your MassKara Festival trip
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This annual festival, which is similar to Brazil’s Rio Carnival, literally translates to “many faces,” and is celebrated every October in Bacolod. Because of the smiling faces of the mask, Bacolod City got the nickname of The City of Smiles.

Check out our list of the best hotels in Bacolod City

See our popular Bacolod Tours and Activities

Negros mambukal mountain resort day tour with transfers from bacolod city, bacolod city, the ruins & heritage houses history tour with lunch & transfers, bacolod, silay, talisay tri city tour with transfers | the ruins, campuestuhan resort.

Origin of MassKara Festival

MassKara souvenir mask displayed at the street for sale

The MassKara Festival can trace its roots back to the 1980s and was born out of a crisis. It was during the time when the province's main livelihood, sugar, was priced at an all-time low because of alternatives introduced in the market, which resulted in one of the worst famines in the country's history that affected an estimated one million people.

It was also the time when a tragic ferry accident happened, which carried mostly people from the province including those from prominent families of Bacolod.

To lift the spirits of the locals and bring back the smiles on their faces, the MassKara Festival was created. The smiling masks were a declaration of the people of Bacolod City that they will pull through and survive the challenges and tragedies that they are facing.

The Arts Association of Bacolod-Negros, headed by Rodney Martinez, conducted workshops around Negros and taught the residents on how to make masks using coconut husks and paper mâché.

Originally, these masks were created just to be sold to tourists and to generate income, and not for a festival that they were yet to conceptualize. The colorful masks created by the local residents were supposedly a signature souvenir of the province and to get the attention of foreign visitors.

Luckily, the idea was a hit and tourists started buying the masks as they were light and easy to bring around. Visitors can also wear them while touring the Bacolod tourist spots .

See our popular Bacolod Vacation Packages

Enriching 10-day nature & heritage tour package to cebu, bacolod, negros & iloilo from manila, insightful 4-day bacolod package at the inns by the oriental with history tour & airport transfers, breathtaking 9-day islands & beaches tour package to boracay, bacolod, iloilo & guimaras, what to expect .

annual masskara festival in bacolod city

The center of the MassKara festival is the big vibrant masks. A lot of barangays and groups are working hard to give world-class performances complete with crafted masks and eye-catching outfits.

As The City of Smiles, expect Bacolod locals to give you the warmest welcome. Festivals in the Philippines usually bring out the most hospitable spirit in everyone, so don't be shy to befriend locals during the festivities. You might even get the best travel tips from them!

The music used for the celebration has enjoyed a colorful evolution, just like the festival. From folk songs, the festival now uses a combination of Latin beat remixes as well as Philippine Jazz to grace the street dances.

yearly dance competition in masskara festival

The most exciting part of the yearly MassKara Festival is the Dance Competition. This part of the festival is something that each and every visitor would not want to miss.

MassKara Festival is known for its street parties, with the biggest party, known as Masskaraland.

Masskaraland is open for everyone who wants to join the fun. Partygoers can dance from sunrise until sunset, as they turn the street of Lacson into a gigantic party venue.

A countdown also starts in the afternoon, where powders of different colors are thrown up to douse all the partygoers.

Tips for First-Timers

Participant of MassKara Festival street dance parade.

The MassKara has unique and exciting events that even first-time travelers can enjoy. To get the most out of the festivities, here are some tips for first-timers:

Book flights to Bacolod in advance. Local flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) and local budget airline Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) offers f lights coming from most major cities within the Philippines. There are Manila to Bacolod flights for those coming from Manila, Cebu to Bacolod flights for those coming from Cebu, and Davao to Bacolod flights for those coming from Davao.

Book Bacolod hotels in advance. Accommodations get fully-booked fast.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Lacson Street is the center of the festival and people have to walk a lot to enjoy the event.

Bring an umbrella. Weather can be unpredictable and October can either be rainy or sunny. Make sure to check the Bacolod weather report too.

Taste the iconic chicken inasal of Bacolod. From food stalls to restaurants, you can spot this chicken dish anywhere you go.

Iconic Chicken Inasal of Bacolod, Philippines

Get the best view. Bacolod Public Plaza is the best area to watch the street performances as it is the venue for the dance arena.

Be ahead of time. Get on the streets an hour before the start of the festivity. The street dance typically starts at 2 in the afternoon so make sure that you are in a good spot.

Bacolod Tourist Spots

provincial capitol of negros occidental in bacolod city

It is fun to visit the city of Bacolod during the annual festival, but there are more things that the City of Smiles has to offer. While in Bacolod, don't miss the following top tourist spots to get to know the city more. You can book a Bacolod City tour with transfers for a hassle-free vacation. You can also plan a Bacolod Iloilo Guimaras itinerary to make the most of your vacation.

Ruins of Mariano Lacson’s Mansion

The Ruins located in Talisay City, near Bacolod City

Negros Occidental is home to some of the oldest ancestral houses in the Philippines, and one of them is the Ruins of Mariano Lacson’s Mansion.

Also known as The Ruins, this place was built in memory of Maria Braga, Don Mariano Lacson’s beloved wife. The story is similar to the Taj Mahal of India: To forget the sadness and sorrow of losing the love of his life, Don Mariano decided to build the magnificent architectural structure.

The mansion also served as a reminder of the history of the Philippines. During the Second World War, the guerrilla fighters burnt it to prevent the Japanese from using the mansion.

See our popular The Ruins Tours

Bacolod city half-day private tour with the ruins, lunch & transfers, campuestohan highland resort .

The Campuestohan Highland Resort is one of the newest tourist spots in the city. It is located 22 kilometers away from the main city that provides an amazing view overlooking Negros Occidental.

The resort will make anyone feel as if it is Tagaytay City in Luzon. For those who are not of faint-hearted, there are ziplines, air bicycles, and rope walks.

Silay City’s Heritage Houses

balay negrense museum in silay, near bacolod city

Silay City has the Philippines ' most number of ancestral houses credited and registered at the National Historical Institute — and three of them were made into museums to preserve the history: The Bernardino Jalandoni Museum, the Casa Luna, and the Balay Negrense Museum.

Silay is also home to the oldest bakeshop in Negros Occidental, the El Ideal where famous local delicacies can be bought.

Old Churches

Other than the colonial homes, Negros Occidental also preserved their churches.

Some of the colonial churches in the province are the San Diego Pro-Cathedral of Silay, the Mary Magdalene of Hinigaran, and the San Sebastian Cathedral of Bacolod.

Experience Bacolod City's MassKara Festival

The MassKara Festival made its way from being a source of happiness after tragedies to one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines.

It is highly recommended to visit Bacolod during the MassKara not only for the festivities but also to bring along the memories and enjoy the infectious smiles and the charms of the city.

Start planning your trip to Bacolod City now! Explore Bacolod tours and activities that you can book during your MassKara Festival trip to the City of Smiles.

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Festivals Of India Essay

Festivals of India Essay

500+ words essay on the festivals of india.

India is a land of fairs and festivals. People of different religions and communities live here and therefore, many festivals are celebrated in India every year. One can capture the Indian tradition and culture best at its fairs and festivals marked by dance, music, sweets, etc. All the festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness in a colourful atmosphere. An Essay on Festivals in India is a very common topic and is expected to be asked in the English exam. So, students are recommended to practise essays on this topic to score high marks in the writing section. This sample Essay on Festivals of India will give them some ideas and tips to organise their thoughts to form an effective essay.

Different Types of Indian Festivals

India is well known for its cultural and traditional festivals all over the world. As it is a secular country full of diversity in religions, languages, cultures and castes, every month, some festival celebration happens. Among these festivals, some are religious, some are based on the seasons and some are of national importance. Each and every festival is celebrated uniquely in different ways according to the various rituals and beliefs. Each festival has its own history, legend and significance of the celebration. Festivals bring bonding, love, cross-cultural exchange and happiness among people.

National Festivals

Festivals and fairs are significant parts of Indian cultural life. Some of the festivals are celebrated at a national level, whereas others are at a regional level. National festivals such as Gandhi Jayanti, Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated by people of all religions across the entire nation. These festivals fill us with great pride and remind us of the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to make India independent and free from British rule. The whole nation unites together to celebrate these festivals and the spirit of togetherness, patriotism and nationalism can be found everywhere.

Religious Festivals

There are some religious festivals which are celebrated as a whole by different communities.

These include Diwali, Dussehra, Rakhsha Bandhan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zuha, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi, etc., which are accompanied by religious rituals of one kind or the other. These traditional festivals have two aspects. One is worship which is performed according to specific religious norms. Another is composite culture, as the members of any community can participate in and celebrate these religious festivals. Thus, our festivals represent unity and encourage social bonding.

Seasonal Festivals

In India, most festivals are seasonal in nature. They announce the change in the season and mark the harvesting seasons. All the seasonal festivals are celebrated during two harvesting seasons, Kharif and Rabi. Besides, spring is another period of seasonal festivals. In Punjab, the Lohri festival indicates the harvesting of the winter crop. Pongal, Bihu and Onam celebrations mark the harvesting of paddy crops. Similarly, Holi and Baisakhi are celebrated to mark the harvesting of new rabi crops. Thus, these festivals symbolise the arrival of joy and wealth to farmers’ lives.

It is said that the “Greatness of a culture can be found in its festivals”. India has proved this saying as a variety of festivals are celebrated with full joy and happiness across the country. Different cultures and religions get tied together in bonds of love with invisible threads of celebrations. That’s why India is also known for unity in cultural diversity. Festivals teach us how to fight evil and falsehood and establish the truth. The festivals are marked by fervour, hope, and prayers for a better tomorrow.

Keep learning and stay tuned with BYJU’S for the latest updates on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams. Also, download the BYJU’S App for interactive study videos.

Frequently Asked Questions on Festivals of India Essay

Why are festivals given so much importance in india.

India has several religions and Indians enjoy celebrating these festivals. Festivals also involve the worship of various deities and also increase the interaction between family members.

What are some of the largely celebrated festivals in India?

Some of the festivals celebrated in India: 1. Diwali 2. Christmas 3. Ramzan 4. Ganesh Chaturthi 5. Dussehra/Vijayadashami

What are some of the values associated with the celebration of festivals?

1. Family bonding and interaction 2. Charity and helping the needy 3. Thanksgiving and showing gratitude

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Home » Hanafi Fiqh » Muftionline.co.za » Congratulate non-Muslims at the time of their religious festivals

Related Q&A

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My question is regarding Muslims congratulating kafirs on their religious holidays.
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Congratulate non-Muslims at the time of their religious festivals

Q: Is wishing hindu friends on festivels permissible in Islam?

A: We are commanded to refrain from emulating the kuffaar as well as adopting their ways. Nabi Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said من تشبه بقوم فهو منهم (the one who emulates a people will be counted from amongst them (in the sight of Allah Ta’ala)). Hence, it is not permissible for Muslims to congratulate non Muslims at the time of their religious festivals.

And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

This answer was collected from MuftiOnline.co.za, where the questions have been answered by Mufti Zakaria Makada (Hafizahullah), who is currently a senior lecturer in the science of Hadith and Fiqh at Madrasah Ta’leemuddeen, Isipingo Beach, South Africa.

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Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival Essay

Festivals are one of the most important events in any community since they are dedicated to a particular idea and gather the whole society or family to celebrate it. In my experience, the most memorable event is the Ramadan celebration which is a religious festival. Even though I do not participate in Ramadan fasting, I enjoy it every year since it has symbolic significance to my family and community.

During this annual festival, which usually lasts around a month, Muslim people keep fasting from around 4 am until 9 pm. Fasting keepers and others alike invite each other to the iftar, that is, the evening meal when fast keepers end their daily Ramadan routine. Moreover, during this month, people are encouraged to respect others, perform good deeds, and remain clean from sins such as lying and theft.

This festival is significant for me because of the solidarity between community members. Both Muslim and non-Muslim members understand the value of Ramadan and try to support each other as much as possible. Since fasting is a difficult task, those who do not keep it help those fasting keepers both mentally and physically. For instance, my father and brother fast every year, and I try to prepare them an iftar (evening meal) and suhoor (morning meal).

In addition, during this month, people are kinder and sincere towards each other. This symbolic importance has not changed for me over the years since I still experience the same level of enjoyment every year during the festival. However, over the last two years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival is celebrated very differently. Since social distancing was imposed, people could not gather for meals. Such a condition was especially difficult for fasting keepers since the community support played a significant role for them. Nevertheless, people tried to provide family support as much as possible by arranging family dinners.

To conclude, Ramadan month, a religious festival, is my favorite and most memorable event of the year. Community solidarity and family support are crucial during this festive period. Individuals behaving better and kinder towards others during this month is another part of the festival that I appreciate. I sincerely hope that as the pandemic will be over, my community and I will enjoy the festival as before.

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"Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival." IvyPanda , 9 Nov. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/ramadan-celebration-the-religious-festival/.

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IvyPanda . 2022. "Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival." November 9, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ramadan-celebration-the-religious-festival/.

1. IvyPanda . "Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival." November 9, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ramadan-celebration-the-religious-festival/.

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IvyPanda . "Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival." November 9, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ramadan-celebration-the-religious-festival/.

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Essay on Religious Festivals of India

Fresh Reads

Since religion dominates the life of individuals, religious festivals have dominated the cultural life of the people. We can draw a long list of religious festivals associated with various gods and goddesses, regions and traditions. These include festivals such as Holi, Dashehra, Diwali, Christmas, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zuha, Gur Parab, etc .

Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated in the Phalguna (February/March) month of the Indian calendar. It marks the end of the Lunar year’s end. This is the end of the cold season and the start of the hot season.

Dashehra or Vijayadashami is one of India largest festivals. This marks the culmination of the Navaratra (nine nights) and is observed on the tenth day. Depending on where one lives in India, Navaratra emphasizes Durga Puja or Ramalila, and sometimes the celebration of both. Durga Puja focuses on the worship of the goddess Durga and her victory of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Ramalila is presented as the drama celebrating Rama’s exploits in the epic Ramayana. The climax on Dashehra depicts Rama’s victory over Ravana. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Dashehra often ends with the torching of huge Ravana effigies. Ramalila is very fast emerging as the national drama of India.

Diwali, the festival of light, comes in the month of Kartik (October/November). This is celebrated on the new moon day (amavasya). Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped on this day. This festival is associated with the cleanliness and lightening of homes, and fireworks.

Ramzan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Muharram, Bakr-Eid, Urs

The festivals of Muslims such as Ramzan (Ramadan), Eid-ul-Fitr, Muharram, Bakr-Eid (the Feast of Sacrifice), etc. are celebrated according to Muslim calendar. The ritual year begins with the month of Muharram. This marks the practice of Muharram festival that commemorates the martyrdom of Hussein venerated by Shia Muslims, as the third Imam (leader) of Islam after the Prophet Muhammad. On this occasion, a large procession with Tazia is taken out. The participants cry out Hussein’s name. Some devotees even torture themselves with knives, leashes and chains etc. to feel Hussein’s travail. A small fair is organised. In late afternoon, the Tazia is buried.

The Prophet’s birthday is celebrated in the month of Ramzan (Ramadan). The fast of Ramzan lasts the entire month. Everyone except the very young or infirm observe fast between dawn and sunset. The last day of the fast ends with the sighting of the moon, which marks Eid- ul-Fitr. On this day, besides observing the fast, alms is given to poor and sweets are distributed. The end of Ramzan is also the time of departure for Muslims for the Haj or the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Bakr-Eid or the Feast of sacrifice celebrates Abraham’s sacrifice of his son. The goats (bakr or bakra) are sacrificed on this day and meat is shared with friends and the poor.

Urs or the “death anniversary” is an important aspect of the religious faith of the Muslims. These are organised as festivals and pilgrims visit the tombs of saints. Committees are formed to organise Urs. On the anniversary day, the shrine is bathed and the tomb of the saint is decorated. The committee plans readings from the Quran, traditional song sessions, food distributions, and poetry readings. The biggest Urs in India is at the Ajmer shrine of the saint Muin-ud-din Chisti. It is visited by thousand of pilgrims and a big fair is organised.

In Christianity too we have many religious festivals and ceremonies. The popular Christian celebration is that of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas. The name is English in origin, which means “Christ’s Mass” or the mass celebrating the feast of Christ’s nativity. It is observed every year on 25th December. In this, the children wait for the legendary Santa Claus, the popular gift bringer. Other customs of the Christmas season includes the baking of special foods and singing of special songs called carols, which have mass appeal.

Easter is the most important of all Christian feasts. It celebrates the passion, the death, and especially the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. Easter was fundamentally a nocturnal feast preceded by a fast of at least one day. The celebration took place from Saturday evening until the early morning hours of Sunday. The symbolism of light became a significant feature of this festival. In Northern Europe the use of special lights at Easter coincided with the custom of lighting bonfires on hilltops to celebrate the coming of spring. The main Easter foods include the Easter lamb, which is in many places the main dish of the Easter Sunday meal. Ham is also popular among the Europeans and Americans on the occasion of Easter. This is because the pig was considered a symbol of luck in pre-Christian European culture.

The Parsis (Zoroastrians) of India celebrate Nauroz (Nawruz) as their most popular festival. It is a festival of renewal, hope and happiness. The origins of Nauroz are obscure. According to legends, its institution is associated mostly with Jamshed, the mythical Iranian king. Nevertheless, till today it is observed as the Iranian national festival celebrating the arrival of spring. Zoroaster, the ancient prophet of Iran, probably reconsecrated Nauroz to his religion. Nauroz survived the advent of Islam and continued as the Iranian national festival. The Shia Muslims of Iran came to associate important religious events with Nauroz such as that the prophet Muhammad took his young son-in-law Ali on his shoulders to smash the idols at Mecca and he chose Ali as his rightful successor. The Muslim rulers of Iran, continuing the Sasanid tradition, celebrated this festival with pomp and show. The Parsis of India who left Iran in the 10th century in order to preserve their Zoroastrian faith also continue to celebrate Nauroz (Jamashedi Nauroz) as a major feast. The ceremonies include recitation of religious verses, visiting of relatives and friends, the exchange of gifts, organising music and dance, etc.

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Non Religious Festival
Non- Religious Festivals.pptx
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Non- Religious Festivals.pptx
Non- Religious Festivals.pptx
Non Religious Festival

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Non-Religious Festival
Non-Religious Festival
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Black Activists & Nonbelief Panel: "Why I left religion"
ESSAY ON NATIONAL FESTIVALS| ಪ್ರಬಂಧ ರಚನೆ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಹಬ್ಬಗಳು
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Guide to Non-Religious Festivals in the Philippines
This non-religious festival traces its roots back to 1995 and 1996 when Damaso E. Bangaoet, Jr., a lawyer and the Managing Director for Camp John Hay, had the idea of leading a flower festival in the city. Years of iterations and changes have made the Panagbenga Festival a must-experience festival if you're looking for non-religious festivals ...
IELTS Writing Task 2: festivals essay
IELTS Writing Task 2: festivals essay. ... In the UK, Christmas as a holiday, non-religious festivals: Bonfire Night - enjoyment is people's primary goal disagree with the idea that the underlying meaning of such festivals has been forgotten: children learn in detail about the religious reasons, sing Christmas songs, perform nativity plays ...
Religious vs. Non-Religious Belief Systems
In the end, there are a few beliefs or belief systems which are difficult to categorize. Theism is perhaps most often confused with religion, even though theism by itself doesn't even qualify as a belief system whereas religion always does. Philosophy is sometimes confused with religion because the two topics tend to cover the same basic issues.
Festivals Beyond Religion, And How They Bring The World Together
The study explains that all festivals are based on six categories that have to be ticked to be able to provide satisfaction and loyalty: 1. Activities and rituals that entertain, educate and inspire. 2. An authenticity or uniqueness factor that sets this festival apart from others. 3.
Non- Religious Festivals.pptx
Non- Religious Festivals.pptx. May 25, 2022 • Download as PPTX, PDF •. 1 like • 8,345 views. Beverly David. Non-Religious Festivals -Panagbenga Festival -Masskara Festival -Giant Lantern Festival. Read more. Education. 1 of 43.
PDF Why are festivals important to religious communities key question
Expected. Make connections between stories, symbols and beliefs with what happens in at least two festivals (A2). Ask questions and give ideas about what matters most to believers in festivals (B2). Identify similarities and differences in the way festivals are celebrated within and between religions (A3).
FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES
BACOLAODIAT FESTIVAL | BACOLOD CITY. PANAGBENGA FESTIVAL | BAGUIO CITY. BABAYLAN FESTIVAL | BAGO CITY. LIST OF RELIGIOUS AND NON-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES - MARCH. KAAMULAN FESTIVAL | BACOLOD CITY. PINTADOS DE PASI | PASSI CITY, ILOILO. SINIGAYAN FESTIVAL | SAGAY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL.
Kaamulan
Kaamulan Festival is an ethnic cultural festival held annually in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon in the Philippines from the second half of February to March 10, the anniversary date of the foundation of Bukidnon as a province in 1917. It is held to celebrate the culture and tradition of the seven ethnic tribal groups—Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon ...
Religious Festivals, Community Engagement and Peaceful Co-Existence
Religious Festivals, Community Engagement and Peaceful Co-Existence. Mohamad Abdun Nasir. February 9, 2017. Community engagement is an important mechanism to maintain peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic and multicultural country like Indonesia. It is comprised of the active involvement by diverse members of a given society in mutually ...
Easter
Examples of non-religious Easter traditions include Easter eggs, and related games such as egg rolling and egg decorating. It's believed that eggs represented fertility and birth in certain ...
(PDF) CELEBRATING OF NON-ISLAMIC FESTIVAL
Author content. Content may be subject to copyright. CELEBRATING OF NON - I SLAMI C FESTIVAL. Nuru l Hanan i Bint i Fadzil. Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA ...
Religious festival
Celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi at Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah, United States. A religious festival is a time of special importance marked by adherents to that religion.Religious festivals are commonly celebrated on recurring cycles in a calendar year or lunar calendar.The science of religious rites and festivals is known as heortology.
Congratulating non-Muslims on their festivals
For this reason, many modern scholars encourage Muslims to offer kind words to their non-Muslim neighbors during the holiday seasons as long as we do not endorse their religious doctrines and rituals. The basis for this opinion, among others, is that Islam encourages benevolence towards any non-Muslim that has not declared war on Islam. Allah said:
MassKara Festival in Bacolod: Everything You Need to Know
The MassKara Festival can trace its roots back to the 1980s and was born out of a crisis. It was during the time when the province's main livelihood, sugar, was priced at an all-time low because of alternatives introduced in the market, which resulted in one of the worst famines in the country's history that affected an estimated one million people.
PDF Ruling on Participating in Non-Muslim Religious Celebrations
The festivals of the Persians. 1. The festival of Nawrooz: the word 'Nawrooz' means new. The festival lasts for six days, when at the time of Chosroes they used to fulfill the needs of other people in the first five days, and the sixth day was devoted to themselves and the people to whom they were closest.
Celebrating Non-Muslim Festivals
Question:Is it permissible to celebrate Non-Muslim festivals? Answer: It is impermissible. Nabiﷺ said: "One who imitates a nation, he is from them.". When Nabiﷺ reached Madinah, the people of Madinah had two days in which they would have a festival. Nabiﷺ enquired about it these two days. They replied: "We.
Celebrating religious festivals of non-Muslims allowed in Islam?
Conclusion: Celebrating religious festivals of non Muslims are not allowed in Islam, and it is the duty of the Muslims not to attend in such celebrations in order to demosntrating that their practices are not true from our view (Islam), because we are Muslims and we have to observe some issues, since in truth, each of us can be considered as a ...
Greeting Non-Muslims on Their Festivals
Greeting the non-Muslims on Christmas and other religious holidays like Thanksgiving is prohibited by consensus because it implies that one accepts or approves of their rituals of disbelief, even if one would not accept those things for oneself. Praise be to Allah. Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymin (may Allah have mercy on him) said:
Lesson-Plan-PE Non-Religious Festival
The document summarizes a physical education lesson plan for a class on religious and secular festival dances in the Philippines. The lesson plan outlines the content standards, learning competencies, subject matter, procedures, and evaluation for the class. It details the teacher and student activities, including an opening prayer, attendance check, classroom rules agreement, lecture and ...
Festivals of India Essay for Students in English
Festivals of India Essay: Go through the 500+ Words Essay on Festivals of India to improve your writing section for the English exam so you can score high marks in the paper. ... Metals And Non-Metals Class 10 MCQ; ... There are some religious festivals which are celebrated as a whole by different communities. These include Diwali, Dussehra ...
Congratulate non-Muslims at the time of their religious festivals
Hence, it is not permissible for Muslims to congratulate non Muslims at the time of their religious festivals. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada. Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach) This answer was collected from MuftiOnline.co.za, where the questions have been answered ...
Ramadan Celebration: The Religious Festival Essay
Moreover, during this month, people are encouraged to respect others, perform good deeds, and remain clean from sins such as lying and theft. This festival is significant for me because of the solidarity between community members. Both Muslim and non-Muslim members understand the value of Ramadan and try to support each other as much as possible.
Essay on Religious Festivals of India
May 15, 2021. Since religion dominates the life of individuals, religious festivals have dominated the cultural life of the people. We can draw a long list of religious festivals associated with various gods and goddesses, regions and traditions. These include festivals such as Holi, Dashehra, Diwali, Christmas, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zuha, Gur ...