Ramadan Moon Sighting

"The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an..." (Quran 2:185)

Significance of the Hilal

In Islam, the lunar calendar dictates the months. The sighting of the new moon (Hilal) marks the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan. It is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah) to look for the moon on the 29th of Shaban. If sighted, Ramadan begins; otherwise, Shaban completes 30 days.

Dua for Sighting the Moon

When the Prophet (PBUH) saw the crescent, he would say:

اللَّهُمَّ أَهِلَّهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالْأَمْنِ وَالْإِيمَانِ، وَالسَّلَامَةِ وَالْإِسْلَامِ، رَبِّي وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ

"O Allah, bring it over us with peace and faith, and security and Islam. My Lord and your Lord is Allah." (Tirmidhi)

Start of Tarawih

As soon as the moon is sighted, the month of Ramadan begins. This means the first Tarawih prayer is performed that very night (after Isha), and the first fast (Roza) is observed the following day. It is a time of immense joy and spiritual preparation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Ramadan Moon sighted in the world?

The Ramadan moon is sighted on the 29th of Shaban. If not seen, Shaban completes 30 days. It depends on local moon sighting committees.

What is the Dua for seeing the moon?

"Allahumma ahillahu 'alayna bil-amni wal-iman..." (O Allah, bring it over us with peace and faith...).

When does Tarawih start?

Tarawih prayers begin on the same night the Ramadan moon is confirmed (Chaand Raat), before the first fast.

What is Chaand Raat?

Chaand Raat is the eve of Ramadan (or Eid). It is a time of joy, preparation for fasting, and special prayers.

Do I make Niyyah (Intention) tonight?

Yes, after the moon is sighted, it is obligatory to make the intention (Niyyah) for the first fast of Ramadan.

Is fasting on sighting day allowed?

No, the day of sighting (29th or 30th Shaban) is not for fasting. Fasting begins the next morning (1st Ramadan).

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