Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, which is based on the Moon’s cycle.
This means the start
of Ramadan changes every year in the Gregorian calendar (the calendar most of the world
uses). The month of Ramadan begins when the crescent moon is seen in the sky. This is very
important in Islam because it is how people have determined Ramadan for centuries. Looking
for the moon is a spiritual and cultural practice that brings Muslim communities together and
connects them to their faith.
While tradition is important, science can predict the exact time the crescent moon appears
using astronomy. The Moon follows a clear cycle, and we don’t actually need to see it with our
eyes to know when Ramadan begins. Depending on the weather, some people may not see the
moon, which can cause different countries to start Ramadan on different days. Some Muslim
communities already use calculations instead of moon sightings to avoid confusion and make
sure everyone starts fasting at the same time.
Even if science can predict the moon, physically sighting it is a part of Islamic culture and faith.
Many Muslim families and communities gather to look for the new moon, making it a special
event. Other cultures also follow lunar calendars for their celebrations, like Chinese New Year,
which is based on the new moon. Traditions like these bring people together and make
celebrations more meaningful.
Tradition is valuable, but science helps make things more accurate and fair. Some countries,
like Turkey and Malaysia, already use astronomical calculations to set the date for Ramadan.
This avoids uncertainty and allows people to plan ahead for fasting and celebrations. Other
cultures that use lunar calendars, like the Chinese traditions balance and addition when
deciding their festival dates.
