The Supreme Court calls for the sighting of the Ramadan crescent on Tuesday: Details and the start date
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has issued an official call to all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of Ramadan on Tuesday evening, corresponding to the 29th of Sha'ban according to the Islamic calendar. This call comes as part of the annual preparations for the holy month. The Court has urged anyone who sights the crescent moon, whether with the naked eye or using binoculars, to report their sighting to the nearest court and register their testimony, or to contact the nearest center for assistance in reaching the nearest court.
Crescent sighting mechanism and procedures
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia follows a precise methodology that combines traditional sighting of the new moon with the use of modern technology at accredited astronomical observatories. The Supreme Court typically convenes a special session on the evening of the 29th of Sha'ban to review reports from moon-sighting committees located throughout the Kingdom, such as the Sudair Observatory, the Tumair Observatory, and other sites known for their clear skies and lack of light pollution. If the new moon is not sighted on Tuesday evening due to cloud cover or atmospheric conditions, the court decides to complete the month of Sha'ban as a 30-day month, with the following day marking the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan, in accordance with the Prophetic tradition: "Fast when you see it (the new moon) and break your fast when you see it. If it is obscured from you, then complete the count of 30.".
Religious significance and anticipation in the Islamic world
The announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court carries immense significance that transcends the Kingdom's geographical borders, given its spiritual standing and its custodianship of the Two Holy Mosques. Muslim communities worldwide, as well as many Arab and Islamic countries, eagerly await this announcement to determine the start of their fast, as many Western countries and Islamic organizations rely on the Kingdom's sighting to mark the beginning of the holy month. This event is not merely an astronomical or legal procedure; it is a spiritual moment that unites the feelings of Muslims and heralds the beginning of a season of devotion, worship, and Taraweeh prayers.
Astronomical and climatic preparations
Astronomically, experts and astronomy centers point to precise calculations of the lunar phases and the possibility of sighting the new moon on that day. However, the final word in the Kingdom rests with the official sighting, which is confirmed by the testimony of credible witnesses. The relevant authorities are working to equip observatories with the latest telescopes and binoculars to ensure accurate observation, amidst widespread media and public attention. Muslims are preparing to congratulate one another on the arrival of the month of mercy and forgiveness as soon as the official statement is issued by the Royal Court, based on the Supreme Court's decision.
