As the Islamic lunar calendar draws near to another holy month of Ramadan, the anticipation grows among Muslim communities worldwide. The start of Ramadan, a time marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection, hinges on the ancient practice of moon sighting, with this year’s observations predicted to initiate the fast on either March 11 or March 12.

The Sighting of the Ramadan Moon

The commencement of Ramadan in Mecca, the heartland of Islam, is projected to be Monday, March 11, or Tuesday, March 12, based on the appearance of the new crescent. The Islamic calendar, guided by the lunar cycle, necessitates the physical sighting of the crescent moon to mark the beginning of Ramadan. This tradition sees moon sighters across Saudi Arabia and other nations with significant Muslim populations looking to the skies for the faint glimmer of the new moon.

How is the Ramadan moon sighted?

The process involves observers looking west after sunset on the 29th of Shaaban (the month preceding Ramadan) to detect the new moon’s crescent. Should the moon be visible, Ramadan will start the following day, March 11; otherwise, Shaaban will extend to a full 30 days, with Ramadan beginning on March 12. In Saudi Arabia, the testimonies of these moon sighters are collected, and the Supreme Court announces the official start of Ramadan.

In South Africa, where the lunar calendar also dictates the Islamic months, Ramadan is expected to commence on March 11 or 12, 2024, concluding on April 8 or 9, 2024, pending moon sightings.

Global Moon Sighting Perspectives

The visibility of the Ramadan moon varies globally, with the Crescent Moon Watch indicating the new moon’s appearance on March 11 at 17:23 GMT. Initial sightings are forecasted near the Hawaiian Islands and parts of French Polynesia, while other regions, including the Middle East and most of the Western world, may not see the crescent until March 11.

The Essence of Ramadan

The month of Ramadan holds profound significance for Muslims, believed to be the period when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago. Fasting from dawn until dusk, Muslims seek to attain a heightened awareness of God, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations. This act of fasting represents one of Islam’s five pillars, underscoring its importance in the faith alongside other foundational practices.

Why is Ramadan holy?

Cultural Practices and Greetings

During Ramadan, the daily routine in Muslim-majority countries shifts, with shorter work hours and closed restaurants during daylight. The customary greetings of “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem” resonate, offering wishes of a blessed and generous month.

The Celebration of Eid al-Fitr

The conclusion of Ramadan brings Eid al-Fitr, the “festival of breaking the fast,” a joyous three-day celebration marked by communal prayers, feasting, and charity. Its exact date, like the start of Ramadan, depends on the moon and is likely to fall on April 10 or 11 this year.

As Ramadan approaches, the Muslim world prepares for a period of devotion and reflection, embodying the spirit of community and faith. Through the observance of fasting and the traditions that accompany it, Ramadan serves as a time to deepen one’s spirituality and renew one’s commitment to the values of Islam.