Global Muslim Community Prepares for the Feast of Sacrifice
Muslims across the globe are setting their calendars for Eid Al Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, with strong indications pointing to Friday, June 6, 2025, as the likely start date. This projection comes from the International Astronomical Centre (IAC), which anticipates the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH to be sighted on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
 |
| June 6 Eid Al Adha Based on Expected May 27 Moon Sighting, Says IAC |
Engineer Mohammed Shawkat Odeh, director of the IAC, provided detailed astronomical calculations suggesting widespread visibility of the crescent moon on May 27. According to his analysis, the moon is expected to be visible using a telescope from Central and Western Asia, most parts of Africa, and Europe. Furthermore, it could be seen with the naked eye from large parts of the Americas, albeit with some difficulty in certain areas requiring very clear skies.
Astronomical Predictions Point to Early June Celebration
Based on these calculations, the IAC predicts that Wednesday, May 28, 2025, will mark the first day of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Consequently, the Day of Arafat, a pivotal day in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, would fall on Thursday, June 5, 2025, with Eid Al Adha commencing the following day, June 6.
This forecast aligns with predictions from various astronomical societies and calendar houses across the Islamic world. For instance, the Qatar Calendar House and the Emirates Astronomy Society have similarly indicated May 28 as the likely first day of Dhul Hijjah, leading to a June 6 Eid Al Adha.
 |
| June 6 Eid Al Adha Based on Expected May 27 Moon Sighting, Says IAC |
Regional Variations in Moon Sighting
While astronomical calculations provide a strong scientific basis for predicting Islamic dates, the final confirmation of Eid Al Adha rests on the actual sighting of the crescent moon by local religious authorities. This traditional method, which relies on eyewitness testimonies, can sometimes lead to slight variations in dates between different regions.
For instance, while many Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq, are expected to observe the moon on May 27 and celebrate Eid on June 6, countries in South Asia like India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan will likely gear up to sight the crescent a day later, on May 28. If sighted on May 28, these nations would celebrate Eid Al Adha on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
Dr. Faheem Hashmi, a prominent astronomer in Pakistan, stated that the moon on May 27 would be only 11 hours old, making it impossible to sight in Pakistan. Therefore, the crescent is likely to be visible on May 28, making May 29 the first day of Dhul Hijjah for these regions, and Eid Al Adha on June 7.
Significance of Dhul Hijjah and Eid Al Adha
Dhul Hijjah holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is the month during which the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, takes place. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a spiritual journey that every Muslim is encouraged to undertake at least once in their lifetime if they are able.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice or Bakra Eid, falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, marking the culmination of the Hajj rituals. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son, Isma'il (Ishmael), as an act of obedience to God. At the crucial moment, God intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead, symbolizing divine mercy and faithfulness.
Also Read:
- His Highness, the UAE Vice President, recognized as an inspirational literary figure by Silk Road Poets
- Geopolitical Tensions and Market Projections Create Uncertainty in Oil Markets
The festival is characterized by special prayers, family gatherings, exchange of gifts, and charitable acts. Muslims often perform Qurbani (sacrifice of an animal like a sheep, goat, or cow) and distribute a portion of the meat to the needy, embodying the spirit of generosity, empathy, and community. It is a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthening bonds of kinship and unity among Muslims.
Awaiting Official Announcements
While the astronomical predictions provide a strong guide for planning, the official dates for Eid Al Adha will be formally announced by the respective moon-sighting committees and religious authorities in each country closer to the anticipated dates. Muslims are advised to follow the announcements from their local religious bodies for definitive confirmation.
As the days draw closer to the end of Dhul Qa'adah, the anticipation for Dhul Hijjah and the joyous occasion of Eid Al Adha continues to build across the global Muslim community, preparing for a period of profound spiritual reflection and celebration.