Saudi Arabia plays a pivotal role in determining the dates of Islamic holidays, particularly Eid al-Adha, as it’s home to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam. The announcement of the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia dictates when Muslims worldwide celebrate this significant festival.
The process involves designated moon sighting committees established across the kingdom. These committees, composed of religious scholars and experienced observers equipped with telescopes, actively search for the new moon on the 29th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhu al-Qa’dah. Their efforts are focused on the western horizon shortly after sunset.
If the crescent moon is sighted, even by a single credible witness, the sighting is reported to the Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia. The court then reviews the evidence and, upon verification, officially announces the start of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. The Day of Arafah, a crucial day of pilgrimage, falls on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, and Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th.
However, if the moon is not sighted on the 29th, the month of Dhu al-Qa’dah is extended to 30 days. Eid al-Adha is then celebrated on the 11th day from when Dhu al-Hijjah started using the 30 day calculation.
The Saudi Supreme Court’s announcement is broadcast widely through official media channels, including television, radio, and online news platforms. This announcement triggers a global ripple effect, with Muslim communities around the world adjusting their calendars and preparations for Eid al-Adha accordingly. While many Muslims follow the Saudi announcement, some communities and organizations opt to use their own moon sighting methods, sometimes leading to variations in the dates of Eid celebrations across different regions.
The reliance on visual moon sighting, despite advancements in astronomical calculations, reflects a deep-rooted tradition in Islam. It underscores the importance of direct observation and adherence to religious principles. While astronomical data provides helpful predictions, the official declaration hinges on the actual sighting of the crescent moon.
Therefore, the Saudi Arabian moon sighting for Eid al-Adha carries immense religious and cultural significance for Muslims worldwide. It’s a moment of anticipation and unity, as the global Muslim community awaits the official announcement that heralds the start of the festivities. The observance of Eid al-Adha, with its emphasis on sacrifice, charity, and community, is intrinsically linked to this crucial moon sighting process in Saudi Arabia.
1200×900 eid ul fitr saudi arabia updates moon sighting from www.siasat.com 
474×266 eid moon sighting saudi arabia eid ul fitr moon sighting from zeenews.india.com 
1000×496 supreme court calls eid ul adha moon sighting riyadh xpress from xpressriyadh.com _1620733670205_1620733689691.jpg)
1600×900 eid ul fitr moon sighting highlights crescent sighted from www.hindustantimes.com