The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to convene in Peshawar on Friday evening to determine the sighting of the Ramadan moon. This crucial meeting will be chaired by Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad. The session will take place at the Auqaf Department building, marking the official start of preparations for the holy month of Ramadan.
Zonal and District Committees to Collaborate
Alongside the central committee, zonal and district Ruet-e-Hilal Committees will also hold meetings at their respective locations. These gatherings aim to gather local observations and reports of the moon sighting. In Islamabad, the local committee will meet at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony to contribute to the nationwide effort.
Central Committee to Make Final Decision
While local committees will provide input, the final decision regarding the moon sighting will rest with the central committee. This ensures a unified declaration for the start of Ramadan across Pakistan. The committee’s announcement is eagerly awaited by millions of Muslims preparing to begin their month-long fast.
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SUPARCO Predicts Moon Sighting on March 1
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has predicted that the Ramadan moon is likely to be sighted on March 1. If confirmed, the holy month will begin on March 2. SUPARCO’s calculations are based on astronomical data, providing a scientific perspective to complement traditional moon sighting methods.
Astronomical Challenges in Moon Sighting
According to SUPARCO, the new moon will be born on February 28 at 5:45 AM PST. However, at sunset, the moon will only be 12 hours old and at an altitude of five degrees, making visibility difficult. Officials noted that the moon must be at least 19 hours old for clear sighting, highlighting the challenges faced by moon sighting committees.
Significance of Ramadan in Islam
Ramadan holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It is one of the five pillars of Islam, observed through fasting, prayer, and reflection. The month fosters self-discipline, empathy, and a deeper connection with faith. The sighting of the Ramadan moon marks the beginning of this sacred period, uniting Muslims in worship and community.
Preparations for Ramadan Underway
As the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee prepares to meet, Muslims across Pakistan are making final preparations for Ramadan. Markets are bustling with shoppers purchasing essentials, while mosques are being readied for nightly Taraweeh prayers. The anticipation of the moon sighting announcement adds to the excitement and spiritual fervor of the season.
A Time for Unity and Reflection
The sighting of the Ramadan moon is not just a religious event but also a moment of unity for the Muslim community. It symbolizes the start of a month dedicated to spiritual growth and communal harmony. The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s role in confirming the moon sighting ensures that Muslims across the country begin Ramadan together, fostering a sense of shared purpose and devotion.