Saudi Arabia has officially declared the sighting of the
crescent moon that marks the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month
of the Islamic lunar calendar, signaling the approach of Hajj and Eid al-Adha, the holiest period in the Islamic year.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Haramain
Sharifain via X (formerly Twitter), Dhul Hijjah 1446 will begin on Wednesday,
May 28, 2025. This announcement finalizes the calendar for key Islamic
observances tied to the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
Key Dates:
·
First Day of
Dhul Hijjah: Wednesday, 28 May 2025
·
Day of
Arafah: Thursday, 5 June 2025
· Eid al-Adha: Friday, 6 June 2025
Significance of the Days Ahead
The Day of Arafah, falling on 5 June, is the spiritual pinnacle of the
Hajj pilgrimage, during which millions of pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to engage in worship,
reflection, and prayer. It is regarded as the most sacred day in Islam after
the Day of Eid.
The following day, Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of
Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to
sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The day is marked by special prayers,
the ritual slaughtering of animals, and widespread acts of charity.
A Time of Unity
and Reflection
The sighting of the
moon not only kicks off the sacred season of Hajj for pilgrims but also unites
Muslims worldwide in observance, whether they are physically in Mecca or
engaging in worship and sacrifice from afar. For non-pilgrims, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are
considered spiritually rich, with Muslims encouraged to fast, give alms, and
intensify their devotion.
This year's
pilgrimage and celebration come at a time of deepening global reflections on
faith, sacrifice, and unity, especially against the backdrop of ongoing
regional tensions and humanitarian concerns across the Muslim world.
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