Every day during the Holy Month, Dr Ali Ahmed Mashael, Grand Mufti, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Dubai (IACAD), clarifies doubts and answers questions for Emirates 24|7 readers
The sighting of the moon signals the beginning of Ramadan. Which Muslim country is assisted by its geographical location on the sighting of the moon first?
There is no Islamic country that has priority over any other in sighting of the moon, but if scientists agree that one country is the right one to see the moon first, obviously, because of the quality of its terrain or weather conditions or otherwise, in such a case we don't find any problem in following such a country. This has never happened like this until now.
The moon must be seen with the mere eyes and should followed the Hadith of Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him).
Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said: "Whenever you sight the New Moon of the month of Ramadan observe the fast and when you sight the New Moon of Shawwal break it, and if the sky is cloudy for you, then observe the fast for 30 days."
This means Muslims all over the world should not rely on astronomers, though they may be referred to .
Tomorrow:
© Emirates 24|7 2013
