Given that this year, the hilal is at an uncertain height, it is certain that there will be a difference in the timing of the determination of Eid al-Fitr.Jakarta (ANTARA) - Chairperson of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for Fatwa Asrorun Niam Sholeh has asked Muslims to respect potential differences in the determination of Eid al-Fitr 2023.
"Given that this year, the hilal is at an uncertain height, it is certain that there will be a difference in the timing of the determination of Eid al-Fitr," he said here on Thursday.
“Therefore, there needs to be a spirit of mutual respect for these differences," he added.
There is a possibility of differences among jurists in determining the start of Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dzulhijjah, Sholeh said.
Scientifically, differences of opinion can occur, he added. On issues that allow for different opinions to emerge, tolerance must be prioritized.
"Therefore, there needs to be a spirit of mutual respect for these differences," he said.
Differences based on scientific considerations would produce understanding, not conflict and hostility, he added.
Therefore, practicing religious teachings must be based on knowledge so as to create harmony and togetherness.
For this reason, those who believe that Eid al-Fitr falls on Friday can perform Eid al-Fitr prayers on Friday and no longer observe the fast.
Meanwhile, those who believe in the criteria for the rukyatul hilal, that the height of the new moon needs to be 3 degrees, will need to wait until the results of the isbat trial.
"For those who believe and follow the view that Eid al-Fitr falls on Saturday, then the Eid al-Fitr prayer will be held on Saturday and may not fast on that day. But they are still obliged to fast on Friday," he said.
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Katriana
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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