As-Salaamu Alaykum
March 26, 2018
The Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, based on the decision of the Fiqh Council of North America, is pleased to announce that the dates of Ramadan and Eidul Fitr for the year 1439 AH are expected to be as follows, insha’Allah:
Ramadan 1439 AH:The Astronomical New Moon is on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at 11:47 AM Universal Time. On that day, at a location in the Pacific Ocean at sunset, the elongation is 8 degrees and moon is 5 degrees above the sun.Therefore the first day of Ramadan 1439 AH, is expected to be on Wednesday, May 16, 2018, and the First Taraweeh prayer to be on Tuesday, May 15th, insha’Allah.
Eid ul-Fitr 1439 AH:The Astronomical New Moon is on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at 19:43 Universal Time. On that day there is no place on earth where at sunset the elongation is 8 degrees and moon is 5 degrees above the sun. Therefore, the month of Shawwal cannot start the next day.Hence, first day of Shawwal 1439 AH (Eid ul-Fitr) is expected to be on Friday, June 15, 2018, insha’Allah
During these blessed times, we ought to show humility and respect towards each other, especially to those who choose to follow different opinions in determining the beginning and end of the auspicious month of Ramadan. Since there are several valid methods used to determine the beginning and ending of the lunar month, this Fiqh discussion, with several layers of complexity, should be left to qualified councils of scholars to discuss. Our unity is in collectively striving to please our Creator in all aspects of our lives.
May Allah (swt) keep us on the straight path, and accept our fasting and prayers always, Ameen
Dr. Ahmed Soboh
Chairman