Moon sighting
Observing the new crescent moon to determine the start of a Hijri month; it decides the dates of Ramadan and the Eid holidays.
Moon sighting, ruyat al-hilal, is the observation of the new crescent after sunset to determine the start of a Hijri month. Many countries announce the start of Ramadan, Shawwal and Dhu al-Hijjah only after an official sighting, while others rely on astronomical calculation or a combination of both. Because Eid holidays depend on these announcements, banks, exchanges and payment systems in those countries may confirm their holiday dates only shortly beforehand.
This entry explains a term; it is not a Shariah ruling. Approving a product is for each institution's own Shariah board and regulator.
Related terms
Hijri calendarThe Islamic lunar calendar of twelve months, used for religious dates, zakat and, in some markets, official and business dates.Lunar monthA month that begins with the new crescent moon and lasts twenty-nine or thirty days; the unit of the Hijri calendar.Business dayA day on which banks, markets or payment systems in a given place are open; the unit for due dates and settlement.Value dateThe date on which a payment or transfer is due to take effect and funds become available to the receiver.