Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 Moon Sighting Highlights: Total Solar Eclipse Delays Crescent Moon Sighting in Middle East
Desk Report, April 09, 2024: In the midst of cloudy skies and anticipation surrounding an upcoming total solar eclipse, Muslim communities in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE awaited the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon to mark the conclusion of Ramadan 2024 and the advent of Eid-ul-Fitr. Despite the celestial spectacle of the eclipse, which briefly cloaked the sun in darkness, the timing of the moon sighting became a matter of significance for Muslims observing the holy month.
As fasting commenced on March 11, 2024, in various regions including the Middle East, the Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia issued a call for Muslims across the Kingdom to seek the new crescent moon on the evening of Monday, corresponding to April 8, 2024. However, the anticipated sighting did not materialize on April 8 evening, prompting the declaration of chand raat on Tuesday, April 9, and subsequently marking Eid-ul-Fitr for April 10, 2024. This decision extended Ramadan to a 30-day fasting period, deviating from the expected 29 days.
Notably, the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, added an element of intrigue to the proceedings. Lasting for a duration of four minutes, the eclipse cast darkness during daytime in several countries, including those awaiting the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. Amidst this convergence of celestial events, Muslims worldwide prepared to usher in Eid-ul-Fitr, signifying the end of Ramadan with traditional festivities.
Eid-ul-Fitr, translating to “celebration” and “breaking of the fast,” holds profound significance in Islamic tradition. Its date varies annually, dictated by the lunar calendar and contingent upon the sighting of the new moon. This year’s observance carried added anticipation, intertwined with the spectacle of the total solar eclipse, creating a unique moment for sky gazers and devotees alike.
In conclusion, the convergence of the total solar eclipse and the quest for the Shawwal crescent moon underscored the spiritual and astronomical dimensions of Eid-ul-Fitr 2024, enriching the observance with celestial wonder and communal significance.
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