A rare celestial event is set to coincide with the conclusion of Ramadan, impacting the timing of Eid Al Fitr celebrations across the Muslim world. On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cast its shadow over North America, crossing Mexico, the United States, and Canada, while commencing over the South Pacific Ocean.
The Emirates Astronomical Association has confirmed that the birth of the Shawwal crescent, signifying the end of Ramadan, will align with the solar eclipse on April 8, at 10:22 pm UAE time. Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, marks the first day of Eid Al Fitr, a significant religious observance for Muslims worldwide.
READ:Global Village in Dubai Closed Today Due to Unstable Weather
Traditionally, the sighting of the Shawwal crescent determines the beginning of Eid Al Fitr festivities. The lunar month lasts either 29 or 30 days, contingent upon the crescent’s visibility. Given the solar eclipse’s timing, the absence of the moon over the western horizon after sunset on April 8 will affect its sighting, potentially delaying the confirmation of Shawwal’s first day.
As a result, April 10, 2024, is anticipated to mark the lunar birth, the onset of Shawwal, and Eid Al Fitr celebrations. However, the official date of Eid Al Fitr will be contingent upon the sighting of the Shawwal moon, underscoring the significance of celestial observations in Islamic traditions.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Association, emphasized that while North America will witness the total solar eclipse, it will not be visible in the Arabian Peninsula. The UAE government has accordingly designated Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as public holidays, spanning from Tuesday, April 9, to Friday, April 12, based on the Gregorian calendar.
The convergence of astronomical phenomena with religious observances highlights the interplay between science, faith, and cultural traditions. Muslims worldwide await the celestial alignment and subsequent lunar sightings, heralding the culmination of Ramadan and the joyous commencement of Eid Al Fitr festivities.
