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Abstract

This paper deals with the juristic basis, on the light of which the problem of sighting the Arabic Moon, can be decided and resolved; so that the calendar of the religious occasions, such as the beginning and end of Ramadan , the Fitr Eid , the day of Arafah , and the Adhh’a Eid, etc, etc. Could be determined. The author in this study, discusses the various views expressed on this issue in the relevant literature of Islamic Law . These views are as follows: The First View: All M uslims are obliged to observe and comply with the calendar of that Islamic country which first managed to sight the Moon . This will result in achieving the unity of the Moon -Sighting i.e. Wuhdat al-Matal i. This view is subscribed to, predominantly by the Hanafiyah, and the reliable opinion of the Hanabilah. This is also the famous opinion among the Malikites, and it is a dis­tinct view among the Shafiaites, and it is also the view adopted by al­ Laith ibn Sa'ad and ash-Shawkani . The Second View: Every Islamic country is entitled to its own theory of the sighting of the Moon, and to the basing of its calendar on it, this is the different Moon sighting. Theory "lkhtilaf at Matali". This theory represents one view among the Hanafiyah, and it is the famous opinion among the Malikites. This is also the view adopted by Imam ash-Shafi'i. and ibn Taymiyaah, among the late Hanbalis. The Third View : This view adopts "the Different Moon-sigh ting, except. When the Imam of the region 'of country commands otherwise. If this happens, i.e. the Imam (Ruler) dictates a certain order, then he ought not be dis­ obeyed. It is narrated that this third view was adopted by Imam Malik but this narration is not strongly documented, and is therefore not wide­ spread. The author, then, discusses the argument given in favor of these three views above, and finally opts for the view that Islamic countries of the same region or vicinity ought to accept the oneness of Moon­ Sighting theory and should becommtted is observing it, if any one in any place therein declared sigh ting of the moon, so that they are obliged to fast and breakfast in accordance with such Moon Sighting. The author believes that this is one step in the direction of achiev­ing a total unity of all Muslims in connection with Moon-sigh ting in the future.

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