In the quest to determine the precise date for the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Zilhaj, astronomical experts have come forward with their valuable insights. The International Astronomical Centre (IAC) recently released a statement shedding light on the expected dates for this significant event.
The Expected Dates for the Month of Zilhaj
According to the International Astronomical Centre (IAC), Monday, June 19, is projected to be the first day of the month of Zilhaj in many countries. Additionally, Tuesday, June 27, is anticipated to be the day of Arafah, while Wednesday, June 28, is expected to mark the first day of Eidul Azha.
In Pakistan, the 18th of June will correspond to the 28th of Zilqad, preceding the moon sighting committee's meeting for observing the crescent, scheduled for Monday, June 19, which is the 29th of Zilqad.
The first day of Zilhaj in Pakistan is estimated to fall on either Tuesday, June 20, or Wednesday, June 21. Consequently, Eidul Azha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, may be celebrated on Thursday, June 29, or Friday, June 30.
The IAC highlights that the majority of Muslim countries will make concerted efforts to sight the moon of Zilhaj on the 29th of Zilqad, which corresponds to June 18 in many countries. However, it should be noted that observing the moon will be challenging, especially in the central and western parts of the Islamic world.
The visibility of the moon using a telescope will be hindered in Jakarta and Abu Dhabi. In Jakarta, the moon will set 7 minutes after sunset, with an age of 6.5 hours, while in Abu Dhabi, it will set 29 minutes after sunset, with an age of 12.4 hours. Therefore, even with the aid of a telescope, sighting the moon in these locations will not be possible.
In Riyadh, the moon will set 31 minutes after sunset, with an age of 13 hours. Similarly, in Amman and Jerusalem, it will set 37 minutes after sunset, with an age of 13.8 hours. These observations further emphasize the challenges faced in sighting the moon in different regions.
Eidul Azha holds immense importance in the Islamic calendar as it commemorates the Quranic tale of the Prophet Ibrahim's (PBUH) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. In this momentous event, Allah replaced Prophet Ibrahim's son with a ram to be sacrificed instead, exemplifying the concept of ultimate submission to the divine command.
Moreover, Eidul Azha marks the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah, which is one of the five pillars of Islam. The Hajj pilgrimage is a sacred journey undertaken by Muslims worldwide, symbolizing unity, devotion, and spiritual purification.
The sighting of the moon for the Islamic month of Zilhaj carries significant importance for Muslims in Pakistan and across the globe. The projected dates provided by the International Astronomical Centre (IAC) serve as a guide for the observance of key events such as Arafah and Eidul Azha.
As Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the moon, they reflect on the lessons of sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to Allah. Eidul Azha serves as a joyous occasion for families and communities to come together, share in the spirit of giving, and express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them.
