MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — Muhammadiyah initiates the unified global hijri calendar. This visionary project aims to establish a single Islamic calendar for the entire world, marking a significant step forward in the realm of Islam. The unified global hijri calendar addresses the growing need for certainty and precision in performing worship that transcends geographical boundaries.
Prior to the unified global hijri calendar, reliance on localized methods created inconsistencies. Since 1932, Muhammadiyah has adhered to the Hisab Hakiki Wujudul Hilal method for its hijri calendar. While this method has proven valuable, it remains restricted to Indonesia, which causes challenges for worship with timings tied to specific locations, such as the Day of Arafah.
“The need for a more universal calendar to unify Islamic practices across the globe became increasingly apparent,” said Maskufa, a member of the Muhammadiyah Council for Religious Opinion and Tajdid, in the lecture held by the Central Board of Muhammadiyah on Friday (July 5).
Recognizing this, Muhammadiyah held a pivotal international symposium in 2007 titled “The Effort toward Unifying the Islamic International Calendar.” This symposium laid the groundwork for crucial decisions made at the 47th (2015) and 48th (2022) Muhammadiyah Congresses (Muktamar), mandating the organization’s commitment to unify the hijri calendar internationally.
Muhammadiyah commitment to a unified global hijri calendar is rooted in the concept of ummatan wahidatan, Islamic unity. This concept, mentioned in the Quran, emphasizes the oneness of Muslims despite its global dispersion and diverse religious interpretations, organizations, and cultures.
“Differences can be both blessings and challenges, but inconsistencies in determining the start of the Hijri months, particularly Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhul Hijjah, often lead to confusion and uncertainty,” said Maskufa.
Muhammadiyah vision for a unified global hijri calendar extends beyond religious practice. The organization recognizes the importance of a unified calendar for various aspects of muamalah (social interactions) as well. By implementing a unified global hijri calendar, Muslims worldwide would have a single point of reference for religious observances and social interactions, fostering greater harmony and unity.
A unified global hijri calendar represents an innovative and forward-thinking approach. The calendar leverages modern scientific knowledge and technology to ensure accuracy and universal applicability. This initiative reflects Muhammadiyah commitment to progress and its dedication to serving the needs of the global Muslims.
Muhammadiyah unwavering support for a unified global hijri calendar was further solidified at the 48th Congress (Muktamar) in Surakarta, Indonesia, in 2022. The organization’s dedication extends to the well-being of the ummah (Muslims), the nation, humanity, and the future of humankind. A core aspect of Muhammadiyah expanding global role is the improvement of the Islamic time system through the implementation of a unified global hijri calendar.
“Among the forms of Muhammadiyah internationalization efforts is the improvement of the international Islamic time system through the implementation of a unified Global Islamic Calendar,” stated Maskufa, quoting the Decision of the 48th Muhammadiyah Congress. Through a unified global hijri calendar,
Muhammadiyah demonstrates its unwavering commitment to leading the Muslim ummah towards greater unity, embracing innovation to address contemporary challenges, and making significant contributions to the well-being of Muslims worldwide.
