Ramadan 2024: Crescent sighted in Saudi Arabia, UAE
In a momentous event marking the onset of Ramadan 2024, the crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The anticipation is palpable as Muslims in these regions prepare for Taraweeh prayers, signaling the commencement of a month filled with spiritual reflection and fasting.
Traditionally, the crescent of Ramadan is first spotted in Saudi Arabia, India, and select Western countries. Tonight, on March 10, 2024, the crescent moon is expected to be visible in various parts of the world, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.
The latter nations are gearing up to observe the first fast of Ramadan 2024 on Monday, March 11.
The global Islamic community awaits updates from Australia, Malaysia, Afghanistan, and other regions to confirm the sighting of the crescent, a crucial aspect of determining the start of Ramadan.
The moon sighting holds significant cultural and religious importance, as it marks the beginning of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, charity, and self-reflection.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, lasting for 720 hours, equivalent to four weeks and two days. During this sacred period, followers of Islam observe fasting from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, evil thoughts, actions, and marital relations. This practice is one of the five pillars of Islam, emphasizing spiritual discipline, empathy, and compassion.
The commencement of Ramadan is not uniform across the globe due to the Islamic calendar’s lunar cycle. In India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries, the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of March 11, after Maghrib prayers, will determine the initiation of Taraweeh prayers, with the first fast scheduled for March 12, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1445 AH.
As the Muslim world unites in the observance of this holy month, the call to spot the Ramzan crescent resonates from Saudi Arabia, urging Muslims worldwide to participate in this cherished tradition.
Ramadan 2024 promises a period of spiritual growth, community engagement, and acts of kindness as believers embark on a journey of self-discipline and connection with their faith.
