Eid ul Adha 2025: Anticipating the Moon Sighting in Pakistan

The Islamic calendar, a lunar calendar, dictates the dates of significant religious observances, including Eid ul Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice.” As we approach 2025, Muslims in Pakistan and around the world eagerly await news regarding the sighting of the crescent moon that will mark the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. This month is of immense importance as it contains the days of Hajj and Eid ul Adha.

The exact date of Eid ul Adha is dependent on the physical sighting of the new moon. Typically, a central moon sighting committee, known as the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Pakistan, convenes to collect evidence and make the official announcement. This committee relies on testimonies from observers across the country, using both traditional methods and modern astronomical calculations to determine the visibility of the new moon.

Leading up to the anticipated moon sighting, various astronomical societies and meteorological departments in Pakistan provide their forecasts. These forecasts are based on scientific data regarding the moon’s position, its age, and atmospheric conditions. While these predictions can offer valuable insights, the final decision rests with the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, who consider both scientific input and physical sightings in their evaluation.

The process usually involves observers located in different regions of Pakistan looking towards the western horizon shortly after sunset. If the crescent moon is sighted, the committee declares the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, and subsequently, the date of Eid ul Adha is announced. If the moon is not sighted due to unfavorable weather conditions or other factors, Dhul Hijjah commences the following day, calculated based on a 30-day completion of the previous month, Dhul Qadah.

For Eid ul Adha 2025, the anticipation will be high. Pakistanis will be closely monitoring news channels, websites, and social media platforms for updates from the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The announcement will not only determine the date of the Eid celebrations but also allow pilgrims performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia to finalize their arrangements according to the dates of the rituals.

Eid ul Adha is a time for family gatherings, charitable giving, and remembering the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (peace be upon him). Regardless of the exact date determined by the moon sighting, the spirit of devotion, compassion, and community will prevail as Muslims in Pakistan and globally celebrate this significant occasion.