MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Muslims can now prepare for the upcoming month of Dhul-Hijjah. Muhammadiyah has meticulously determined the start date based on a rigorous method.
Dhul-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, holds immense significance. It’s a time for Hajj pilgrimage, Eid al-Adha sacrifice, and the Day of Arafah – all eagerly anticipated by Muslims worldwide.
Secretary of Muhammadiyah Muhamad Sayuti explains that the start date is determined using the Hisab Hakiki Wujudul Hilal method.This method relies on precise astronomical calculations and involves strict criteria, ensuring the moon is visible at sunset. Some of these criteria include the moon’s conjunction (ijtimak) happening before sunset and the crescent moon being visible above the horizon after sunset, regardless of its altitude.
“Adhering to these criteria, Muhammadiyah has established that Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH begins on Saturday, June 8, 2024. This announcement allows Muslims to prepare for the special acts of worship associated with this holy month,” said Sayuti.
The calculations considers several factors. The moon conjunction (ijtimak) occurs on Thursday, June 6th, 2024, corresponding to the 29th of Dhul Qadah 1445 AH, at precisely 7:39:58 PM (UTC+7). However, in Yogyakarta at sunset, the moon remained below the horizon (-03° 32` 39″), making it invisible.
Therefore, the length of Dhul Qadah 1445 AH is extended (istikmal) to 30 days. Indonesian calendars reflect this, with Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH beginning on Saturday, June 8th, 2024. This allows Muslims to plan their worship and celebrations for this sacred month.
The calculations also ensure that the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH, falls on Sunday, June 16th, 2024. Eid al-Adha, the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH, is celebrated on Monday, June 17th, 2024. This precision is crucial for planning religious observances and commemorating this significant occasion.
In summary:
- Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH begins on Saturday, June 8th, 2024
- The Day of Arafah falls on Sunday, June 16th, 2024
- Eid al-Adha is celebrated on Monday, June 17th, 2024
