Nyepi Coinciding with Ramadan, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar: This is a Reminder That We Share One Earth, One Family
The celebration of the Holy Day of Nyepi for the Saka New Year 1948 feels different this year. This sacred moment for Hindus occurs amidst the holy month of Ramadan and ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar views the convergence of these two religious milestones as a strong symbol of cross-faith brotherhood in Indonesia.
Through his official message, the Minister invites all society to use Nyepi as an opportunity to strengthen harmony amid diversity.
“On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia as well as personally, I convey my congratulations on the Holy Day of Nyepi and Saka New Year 1948,” stated Nasaruddin Umar, quoted by the Ministry of Religious Affairs on 18 March 2026.
According to him, the togetherness of Nyepi and Ramadan is not merely a calendar coincidence. The Minister sees it as an important reminder that Indonesian society lives under one shared spirit of humanity.
“This is not just a coincidence, but a reminder that we are in one spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family,” he emphasised.
The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam itself is a universal value emphasising that all humanity forms one large family on the same earth. In the Minister’s view, this philosophy is highly relevant to Indonesia’s conditions, rich in cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity.
Furthermore, Nasaruddin Umar considers the meaning of Nyepi to contain profound reflective messages that can be gleaned by all groups. These values are reflected in the Catur Brata Penyepian, the four main abstinences observed by Hindus during Nyepi.
The first is Amati Geni, which involves abstaining from fire or light, interpreted as an effort to extinguish the fire of anger, greed, and ego within oneself.
The second is Amati Karya, which encourages halting physical activities to make room for contemplation and introspection. Next is Amati Lelungan, meaning no travelling. This practice is not only a form of spiritual discipline but also provides an opportunity for nature to rest.
Lastly is Amati Lelanguan, which involves abstaining from entertainment or worldly pleasures so that humans can find inner clarity.
“By observing Nyepi, Hindus are essentially giving a pause to the universe. If we honour nature, then nature will honour our human dignity,” stated the Minister.