Saudi Arabia announced on Thursday the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, marking the beginning of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Consequently, the holy month of Dhul Hijjah will commence on Friday, June 14, 2024.
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had called on all Muslims across the Kingdom to participate in the sighting of the crescent moon on Wednesday.
This sighting is crucial in determining the start of Dhul Hijjah and the timing of significant religious observances.
The Hajj pilgrimage for the year 1445 AH will begin on Friday, June 14. The day of Arafah, an important day of prayer and reflection during the Hajj, will fall on Saturday, June 15.
Following this, Eid Al-Adha, the largest Islamic festival, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
Dhul Hijjah is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, with a series of important days for the Muslim faith.
It is one of the four sacred months known as Al Ash-hur Al Hurom, alongside Rajab (the seventh month), Dhul Qa’dah (the eleventh month), and Muharram (the first month).
The announcement of the crescent sighting and the commencement of Dhul Hijjah sets the stage for millions of Muslims around the world to prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam.
This period is also marked by increased spiritual activities, charity, and communal gatherings.
The observance of Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
It is celebrated by Muslims worldwide with prayers, feasts, and the ritual slaughtering of animals, the meat of which is distributed among family, friends, and the needy.
As the holy month of Dhul Hijjah approaches, Muslims around the world will engage in acts of devotion and charity, preparing for the significant events that mark this sacred period.
