QUETTA – The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Quetta has officially declared that the crescent moon of Muharram, which marks the beginning of the Islamic year 1445 AH, was not sighted on Tuesday. As a result, the Day of Ashura, known as Youm-e-Ashur, will be observed on July 29 (Thursday) this year 2023.
The committee meeting, held at the Quetta Deputy Commissioner’s Office, was presided over by Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, who leads the committee. Various government officials, including Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz, also attended the meeting.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the chances of sighting the Muharram chand in Pakistan on Tuesday, July 18, were extremely low. The PMD conducted thorough research on astronomical movements to determine the probability of moon sighting.
Is Muharram Moon Sighted in Pakistan 2023?
In a notification released by the PMD, it was stated that there is a remote possibility of sighting the new moon of Muharram, 1445 AH, on the evening of July 18. However, due to unfavorable conditions, the moon remained concealed from sight.
The sighting of the moon holds immense significance for the Muslim community as it marks the beginning of the holy month of Muharram. This month is considered sacred and holds great religious importance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time of reflection, remembrance, and mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Day of Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram and is a significant day for Muslims. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in the Battle of Karbala. On this day, Muslims engage in various activities, including fasting, participating in processions, and listening to sermons that highlight the sacrifice and teachings of Imam Hussain (RA).
The decision of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is based on the testimonies of reliable witnesses who search for the appearance of the moon. The committee follows a meticulous process to ensure the accuracy of their decision. However, moon sighting remains a challenging task due to various factors, such as weather conditions and the position of the moon in the sky.
The announcement made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee serves as a guideline for Muslims across Pakistan, who rely on the committee’s decision to determine the start of the Islamic month. This information allows individuals and communities to plan their religious activities, observances, and events accordingly.
The first day of Muharram in Pakistan will be on July 19, 2023. The date of 1st Muharram 2023 is expected to occur on July 18 in the Arabic world and July 19 in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other countries.
Islamic Date Today in Pakistan
The Islamic calendar indicates that 01 Muharram 1445 July 19, 2023 is the first day of Muharram 1445. The Hijri calendar (1444 A.H.) and the Georgian calendar (2023) are both kept up-to-date daily.
Related Article :Muharram: Sacred Month of Reflection, Worship, and Blessings
Conclusion
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Quetta has confirmed that the crescent moon of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Islamic year 1445 AH, was not sighted on Tuesday. As a result, the Day of Ashura will be observed on July 29 (Thursday) this year. The committee’s decision holds significant importance for the Muslim community, allowing them to prepare for the holy month of Muharram and commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) on the Day of Ashura.
