The Anticipation Builds: Saudi Arabia and the Ramadan Moon Sighting
The Anticipation Builds: Saudi Arabia and the Ramadan Moon Sighting The holy month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, and community for Muslims worldwide. And at the heart of this anticipation lies the crucial moment of the Ramadan moon sighting, a tradition that holds immense significance, especially in Saudi Arabia. The Importance of the Moon Sighting: The Islamic lunar calendar dictates the beginning of Ramadan, and the sighting of the new crescent moon (hilal) marks the official start of the month. This practice is rooted in the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) teachings and is observed globally. In Saudi Arabia, the custodian of the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina, the moon sighting carries particular weight. The Kingdom's decision sets the tone for millions of Muslims around the world. How the Sighting Occurs: * Official Committees: Saudi Arabia has official moon sighting committees located in various regions. These committees include as...