Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. While Muslims worldwide observe this sacred period, the official start date can differ from country to country—even from mosque to mosque within the same city.
Why Does Ramadan’s Start Date Vary?
Muslims estimate when Ramadan will begin, but they often receive official confirmation just hours before it starts. This is because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, making moon sighting crucial in determining the start of Ramadan.
For example, in Saudi Arabia, the new moon is expected to be visible on February 28, 2025, meaning Ramadan would begin on March 1. However, in Indonesia, different lunar visibility angles suggest the start date will be March 2.
In 2024, Saudi Arabia and Oman began Ramadan on different days due to variations in moon sightings.
Key Factors Affecting Ramadan’s Start Date
Professor Scott Kugle from Emory University explains that multiple factors contribute to these variations, including:
- Astronomical moon sightings
- Global geography and time zones
- Cultural traditions among Muslim communities
- Weather conditions affecting visibility
Unlike some religions with centralized authority, Islam’s lunar calendar interpretations are local and depend on individual mosques and religious leaders.
The Role of the Crescent Moon
The Islamic calendar does not follow the sun like the Gregorian calendar; instead, it follows lunar cycles.
The key phases include:
- New Moon: Invisible phase where the moon is between the Earth and the Sun.
- Waxing Crescent: A small sliver of the moon appears, signaling the start of Ramadan.
- Full Moon: The brightest phase, occurring mid-month.
Two Methods of Moon Sighting
- Traditional Observation:
- Religious committees climb high places or go to open areas to visually confirm the crescent moon.
- If the moon isn’t seen due to clouds or weather, Ramadan is delayed.
- Astronomical Calculations:
- Some countries, like Turkey, use scientific calculations instead of human observation.
- Islamic scholars confirm that both methods are valid and should be followed based on local conditions.
Excitement and Anticipation Before Ramadan
The uncertainty surrounding the official start of Ramadan creates anticipation among Muslims. Many spend the days leading up to it shopping, preparing for fasting, and waiting for the moon sighting announcement.
Regardless of the method used, the crescent moon remains the universal symbol of Ramadan’s arrival, uniting Muslims worldwide in a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
