A "halal moon" refers to the hilal, the crescent moon visible after a new moon. This sighting is crucial in the Islamic calendar for determining the start of a new month.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Hilal Definition: The term "hilal" (Arabic: هلال) specifically refers to the thin crescent of the moon that becomes visible shortly after a new moon. It marks the beginning of each month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
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Significance in the Islamic Calendar: The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, meaning its months are based on the cycles of the moon. The sighting of the hilal is not merely an astronomical event; it's a religious event that dictates the commencement of Islamic months, including important religious observances like Ramadan and Eid.
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Determination of Islamic Months: Islamic months do not begin at the astronomically calculated "new moon," but rather upon the actual sighting of the hilal. This can sometimes lead to variations in the start dates of Islamic months in different regions, depending on local visibility.
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Process of Sighting: Traditionally, the hilal is sighted by trained observers. Modern astronomical calculations can predict the approximate location and time of the hilal's appearance, but the actual sighting by the naked eye is still the primary method for confirming the start of a new month.
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Importance of Naked Eye Observation: While telescopes and other aids can be used, most Islamic scholars emphasize the importance of sighting the hilal with the naked eye whenever possible. This adheres to the traditional practice and ensures authenticity.
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Examples:
- The sighting of the hilal signals the start of Ramadan, the month of fasting.
- The sighting of the hilal following Ramadan marks the beginning of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
- Similarly, the sighting of the hilal of Dhul-Hijjah determines the date of Hajj and Eid al-Adha.
In summary, the "halal moon," or hilal, is the crescent moon that signals the start of each month in the Islamic lunar calendar, making its sighting a significant religious event.
