Sighting the crescent moon, known as "Hilal," is an important tradition in Islam, particularly for determining the beginning of the lunar month, which is crucial for Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
Determining the start of Islamic months, particularly Ramadan and Shawwal for Eid, often involves searching for the crescent moon (hilal).
Here's a general guide on how it's traditionally done:
1. Know the timing: The sighting usually occurs after sunset on the 29th day of the lunar month, although it may vary depending on location and visibility conditions.
2. Look to the western horizon: Observers scan the western horizon shortly after sunset, where the new crescent moon is expected to appear.
3. Use the naked eye: While binoculars or telescopes can help, the sighting is typically done with the naked eye. This ensures adherence to the traditional method and allows more people to participate.
4. Ideal conditions: Clear skies and good weather conditions are ideal for moon sighting. Clouds, haze, or urban light pollution can hinder visibility.
5. Consult local authorities: In some regions, religious authorities or committees are responsible for confirming the moon sighting. They may rely on multiple credible witnesses or astronomical calculations to determine the start of the new month.
6. Report the sighting: If someone spots the crescent moon, they report it to the relevant authorities or community leaders. This information is then used to officially declare the beginning of the new month.
7. Community involvement: Moon sighting often involves community participation, with individuals and families joining together to observe and celebrate the occasion.
حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى بْنُ بُكَيْرٍ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنِي اللَّيْثُ، عَنْ عُقَيْلٍ، عَنِ ابْنِ شِهَابٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي سَالِمٌ، أَنَّ ابْنَ عُمَرَ ـ رضى الله عنهما ـ قَالَ سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ " إِذَا رَأَيْتُمُوهُ فَصُومُوا، وَإِذَا رَأَيْتُمُوهُ فَأَفْطِرُوا، فَإِنْ غُمَّ عَلَيْكُمْ فَاقْدُرُوا لَهُ ". وَقَالَ غَيْرُهُ عَنِ اللَّيْثِ حَدَّثَنِي عُقَيْلٌ وَيُونُسُ لِهِلاَلِ رَمَضَانَ.
Narrated Ibn Umar: I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, "When you see the crescent (of the month of Ramadan), start fasting, and when you see the crescent (of the month of Shawwal), stop fasting; and if the sky is overcast (and you can't see it) then regard the month of Ramadan as of 30 days."
By following these guidelines and exercising diligence and collaboration, Muslims can participate in the important process of moon sighting to determine the start of Islamic months and the timing of significant religious observances such as Ramadan and Eid.