Ruet-i-Hilal Committee to Meet Today for Ramadan Moon Sighting in Pakistan
As the Islamic world prepares for the arrival of Ramadan, Pakistan’s Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee is set to convene today in Peshawar to determine the sighting of the crescent moon, officially marking the beginning of the holy month of fasting.
Islamabad, Pakistan – As the Islamic world prepares for the arrival of Ramadan, Pakistan’s Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee is set to convene today in Peshawar to determine the sighting of the crescent moon, officially marking the beginning of the holy month of fasting.
The announcement, eagerly awaited by millions of Muslims across the country, will be made by Moulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, the committee’s chairman, who will preside over the meeting. Alongside the central committee, zonal Ruet-i-Hilal committees will also gather at their respective locations to collect testimonies and confirm moon sightings.
This meeting holds significant importance, as the official sighting of the moon will determine whether Ramadan begins on Saturday, March 1, or Sunday, March 2, 2025.
Pakistan’s Official Ramadan Moon Sighting Process
In accordance with Islamic tradition, the beginning of Ramadan is determined by the visual sighting of the crescent moon, following the completion of the Islamic month of Sha’aban. While modern astronomical calculations offer predictions, Islamic scholars emphasize that the naked-eye sighting remains a fundamental religious obligation.
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has provided a scientific forecast stating that the new moon (conjunction) will occur on February 28, 2025, at 05:45 PST. However, the visibility of the crescent moon depends on several factors, including:
???? Age of the moon (time elapsed since conjunction)
???? Angular separation from the sun
???? Altitude of the moon at sunset
???? Atmospheric clarity and weather conditions
Due to these variables, SUPARCO predicts that the moon is unlikely to be visible on February 28, even with optical assistance, meaning that the likelihood of Ramadan beginning on March 1 in Pakistan is extremely low.
“Based on precise astronomical calculations, Sha’aban is expected to complete 30 days, and the first fast of Ramadan will most likely be observed on March 2, 2025.” – SUPARCO Press Release
Moon Sighting Expectations in Pakistan vs. Saudi Arabia
While the official moon sighting in Pakistan is yet to be confirmed, astronomers anticipate that the crescent will not be visible on February 28, making a March 2 start to Ramadan the most likely scenario for Pakistan.
In Saudi Arabia, however, conditions are expected to be different. The new moon will also be born on February 28, but due to its relative position to the horizon and clearer atmospheric conditions, the crescent moon is expected to be visible there.
This means that:
???? Saudi Arabia is likely to begin Ramadan on March 1, 2025
???? Pakistan will likely observe Ramadan from March 2, 2025Similar regional variations in moon sighting timings have been observed in past years due to the geographical differences and positioning of the moon at sunset.
“According to astronomical models, the Shawwal moon will be visible on March 30, indicating that Eid-ul-Fitr will likely be observed on March 31 in Pakistan.” – SUPARCO
Significance of Ramadan and Moon Sighting Tradition
???? Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. It is a month of deep devotion, charity, and self-discipline.
Moon sighting plays a crucial role in Islamic traditions, as the Islamic calendar follows a lunar cycle. Each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon, and this tradition has been followed for centuries.
In Pakistan, the Ruet-i-Hilal Committee ensures that the moon sighting process remains aligned with Islamic teachings and national unity, helping Muslims across the country begin and end Ramadan together.
What Happens After the Committee’s Decision?
???? Once the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee confirms the moon sighting, an official announcement will be made via national media, including TV and radio broadcasts.
???? Mosques across Pakistan will follow the official declaration to begin special Taraweeh prayers on the first night of Ramadan.
???? If the moon is sighted today (Feb 28) – Ramadan will begin on March 1, 2025
???? If the moon is not sighted – Sha’aban will complete 30 days, and Ramadan will start on March 2, 2025The final confirmation will be broadcast live on national television, and an official statement will be released.
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