In a nutshell and according to the principles of Hanadi Madhab, Eidul-Adha is not the day after Hajj in Britain. Regardless of the discussions about differnces of horizons (generally), we find that in the case of Eidul-Adha, the Hanafi Madhab is clear that differnces of horizons have to be considered for Dhul-Hijjah i.e. localities must have their own local sighting.
In the Mas’alah of Moonsighting, astrologers, and those who have knowledge of the stars are not to be relied upon, hence on the basis of their calculations the Hilal will not be determined. As Shariah has determined the Fast and Eid on sighting of the Moon, hence the opinion of the Astrologer however researched it may be cannot be deemed as conclusive. Rather many a times their opinions could differ.
Wifāqul Ulāmā have received many requests to visit various Mosques throughout the country and give public presentations on the subject of Moonsighting. It is for this reason that we have decided to put together a scientific paper on visibility curves and will also a few presentations covering the most important aspects of this topic.
We end this release by advising British Muslims to be cautious and to let this incident be a stark reminder for the Ulamā about the need to scrutinise the testimonies and news of Moonsighting. This is not the first incident of mistaken Moonsighting and unfortunately it will not be the last.
Moonsighting or Calculations?
Abdul Aziz Raje
If the declarations of Wifaqul Ulama are based on Moonsighting, how are they able to produce and release graphics so quickly? Doesn’t it show that Islamic dates are predetermined and not based on actual Moonsighting?
In...
There are several methods by which Moonsighting testimony can be received or a decision can be reached by the Moonsighting committee and they are enumerated as follows:
In a nutshell and according to the principles of Hanafi Madhab, the testimony of a Faasiq can be accepted if the testimony is deemed to be accurate and correct. The testimony of an upright Muslim can be rejected if it is deemed to be inaccurate. It is up to the Qadhi or the head the Moonsighting committee. We did not find this principle in the Madhab that we have to investigate the Fisq of the one testifying about the Moon in the Madhab.
However, as far as I can research this started from a statement of (Fatawa) Khaniya). I was unable to find this statement in the original books of Zahir al-Riwayah or within (original) books which contained the principles of Zahir al-Riwayah.
In a nutshell and according to the principles of Islam, Moon sighting is only done and valid after sunset. Moonsighting during the day has no basis or foundations in Islamic Law and it is to be disregarded and rejected for the establishment of Ramadhan, Shawwal etc.
In a nutshell we don't deem it necessary to follow Moonsighting from Saudia in United Kingdom because there is an established monthly system already in existence in Britain. Their opinion is for countries to sight the Moon locally. Therefore, according to their own principles we find your suggestion to be inconsistent. We find it puzzling that you would recommend following Saudi scholars but then advise following Saudi Moonsighting.
