DefinePK

Research Objective

To analyze the determination of the Islamic calendar by the Moonsighting Australia organization based on factors such as method, matla, rukyat time, hilal visibility, and resistors, specifically using the case study of 1 Dzulhijjah 1441 H.

Methodology

A descriptive study employing a qualitative approach, utilizing literature reviews, content analysis, and case studies. Primary data included a decision letter from Moonsighting Australia regarding the start of Dzulhijjah 1441 H and interviews with the organization's coordinator. Astronomical data (hilal positions) were computed using software based on accurate times. Data analysis used a comparative approach.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD; A[Literature Review & Content Analysis] --> B[Primary Data Collection: Decision Letter & Interview]; B --> C[Astronomical Data Computation via Software]; C --> D[Comparative Analysis]; D --> E[Assessment of Method, Matla, Time, Visibility, Resistors]; E --> F[Conclusion on Moonsighting Australia's Practice]; F --> G[Report Generation];                    

Discussion

The study contrasts the rukyat (observation) and hisb (calculation) methods used globally for calendar determination. Moonsighting Australia's strict adherence to naked-eye rukyat aligns with certain traditional interpretations but contrasts with astronomical predictions for the case study date, where some Australian locations met Zone C visibility criteria (requiring optical aid). The organization's reliance on local sighting (wilayat al hukmi) means sightings in nearby countries like Indonesia are disregarded. Meteorological factors (winter fog/cold) were identified as potential resistors to visibility, but the organization's policy against optical aids is the primary factor leading to the completion of the month to 30 days when the hilal is not seen by the naked eye.

Key Findings

1. Moonsighting Australia applies the rukyat method using the naked eye, without optical aids or consideration of hill visibility criteria, for determining the start of every Hijri month.
2. The organization adheres to the concept of matla wilayat al hukmi, meaning the sighting process and results are implemented only throughout Australia's territory (local rukyat).
3. Rukyatul hilal observation is performed every 29th of the Hijri month without explicitly considering the conjunction time.
4. Astronomical hilal visibility criteria (like Odeh's) cannot be referenced as the primary consideration, as the organization mandates naked-eye observation regardless of calculated visibility zones.

Conclusion

Moonsighting Australia determines the start of the Islamic month using the naked-eye rukyat method exclusively, applying the wilayat al hukmi concept within Australian territory. This method prioritizes direct observation over astronomical visibility criteria or conjunction timing for the decision-making process.

Fact Check

1. The case study date analyzed was 1 Dzulhijjah 1441 H, which corresponded to July 23rd, 2020, according to Moonsighting Australia's decree.
2. Moonsighting Australia was formed following a congress held in Rooty Hill Mosque, Sydney, in 1996.
3. The study found that three out of seven selected Australian cities met Odeh's criterion for Zone C visibility (visible only by optic aid) for the Dzulhijjah 1441 H observation date.

Mind Map