By Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike, Chief Missioner, NASFAT

The annual debate over moon sighting for the commencement of Ramadan is a long-standing issue in the Muslim world. It revolves around whether to rely on physical sighting (ru’ya), astronomical calculations (hisab), or technological assistance and whether moon sighting should be local or global. This lack of consensus results in different start dates for Ramadan across various regions.

Key Scholarly Perspectives

Islamic scholars have varying views on the best approach to moon sighting. The primary schools of thought can be categorized as follows:

1. Local vs. Global Sighting

• Local Sighting (Ikhtilāf al-Maṭāli‘): Some scholars, particularly from the Shāfi‘ī and Ḥanbalī schools, believe that moon sighting is region-specific. They argue that every community should rely on its own sighting, citing hadiths that emphasize starting fasting when the new moon is seen locally.
• Global Sighting (Ittiḥād al-Maṭāli‘): The Ḥanafī and Mālikī schools generally hold that if the moon is sighted anywhere in the world, the entire Ummah should follow that sighting for the sake of unity.

2. Physical Sighting vs. Astronomical Calculations

• Physical Sighting (Ru’ya): Traditional scholars insist on the direct observation of the moon, arguing that this is in line with prophetic teachings.
• Astronomical Calculations (Hisab): Some modern scholars argue that scientific calculations provide accurate and reliable data, reducing confusion and discrepancies in moon sighting.

3. Use of Technological Equipment

• Some scholars permit the use of telescopes and optical devices to assist in moon sighting, while others believe it should be strictly based on the naked eye, as practiced during the Prophet’s time.

Arguments For and Against Universal Moon Sighting

One of the biggest controversies surrounding moon sighting is whether the entire Muslim world should start fasting based on a single, confirmed sighting anywhere in the world. Scholars and jurists have debated this issue extensively.

Arguments in Favor of Universal Moon Sighting

1. Islamic Unity and Global Synchronization

• Islam emphasizes unity and discourages division. Since Hajj and Arafah Day are determined by the Saudi lunar calendar and are universally accepted, Ramadan should follow the same principle.

1. The Hadith Does Not Restrict Sighting to Locality

• The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “Fast when you see it (the moon), and break your fast when you see it…” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 1909; Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, 1081)
• There is no specification in the hadith that every region must have an independent sighting.

1. Scientific and Logistical Feasibility

• With advancements in communication and astronomy, moon sighting reports can be transmitted globally in real time, ensuring a more precise and unified start to Ramadan.

1. Precedent of Following Saudi Arabia for Arafah

• Muslims worldwide do not dispute the Saudi-determined date for Arafah, even if their local moon sighting does not match. The same principle should apply to Ramadan.

1. The Concept of a Global Ummah

• The Qur’an describes Muslims as one nation (Ummah). If a confirmed sighting is valid Islamically, there is no need for each region to wait for its own sighting.

Arguments Against Universal Moon Sighting

1. Hadith Supporting Local Sighting

• The hadith of Kuraib (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, 1087) narrates that Ibn Abbas did not accept the sighting from Syria for the people of Medina, which some scholars take as evidence that moon sighting is a regional matter.

1. Differences in Time Zones and Lunar Visibility

• The moon may be visible in one part of the world but not in another. If fasting is declared in one country based on a sighting in a distant region, it may create difficulties for those in different time zones.

1. Historical Practice of Local Sighting

• Traditionally, different Islamic regions have relied on local sighting due to the lack of rapid communication. Some scholars argue that this method should be preserved.

1. Government and Authority-Based Decision

• Some scholars believe that each country should follow its own official religious authority in moon sighting to maintain unity within their region and avoid confusion.

Proposed Solutions for a Unified Approach

To resolve the ongoing controversy, the following steps are recommended:

1. Establish a Standardized System

• A global Islamic authority, such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), should create a unified moon-sighting committee.

1. Accept Verified Testimonies

• Countries should adopt a system where authenticated moon sightings from reliable sources are accepted internationally.

1. Combine Physical Sighting with Astronomical Calculations

• A hybrid approach would use calculations to confirm the possibility of sighting while maintaining the traditional practice of physical observation.

1. Educational Awareness

• Scholars should educate the public on the legitimacy of different methods to foster tolerance and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Conclusion: A Call for Unity in Moon Sighting

Achieving a universal consensus on moon sighting may be challenging, but adopting a balanced approach that combines tradition with scientific accuracy while prioritizing unity is the most practical solution.

In Nigeria, it is recommended that the Sultan of Sokoto, as the religious leader, should coordinate the announcement of Ramadan’s commencement based on confirmed moon sightings anywhere in the world.

As the saying goes:
“Think Internationally, Act Locally.”
Muslims should recognize the first confirmed sighting globally while beginning their fast at their local Fajr time.

After all, “There is only one moon in the world.”

Allah knows best.