Question:
Assalamualaikum
I was just want to find out about the Masaail regarding to Hilaal as it happens to be an issue these days.
as a group of people claim it is Waajib to follow Saudia when they announce the fasting or Eid.
others say wherever on the world when it happens the moon to be sighted then the whole world they have to follow that moon.
others say each place they will have their own citing according to Matlaa’.
im following the last group
im requesting some explanation regarding the issue and where we must base and why.
wishing the Darul Iftaa and all that make the effort behind it success in here and after Insha-Allah Wa billah tawfiq.
Answer:
We are not convinced of the accuracy of the moon sighting that is announced in SAUDIA. That is why we will not advise the world to follow the announcement of the moon sighting from Saudia. You are a resident of South Africa and the Hilaal committee of South Africa bases their decisions on the laws laid down by the Shari’ah. As we are convinced of the reliability of the South African Hilaal Committee we consider it appropriate for you to follow them.
May Allah Ta’ala keep you steadfast. Ameen.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
07 March 2007
16 Safar 1428