Calculation or Moonsighting? How about both!

Each year, we seem to have the same discussion as a family and community over which method to accept/choose in determining when to start the holy month of Ramadan.

To be clear, it is not my intention to argue the merits of one method over the other. In fact, I’m here to do the opposite.

I often hear, in discussions a perspective that there is a ‘crisis of authority’ in the pan-Muslim community, owing to the lack of central figure or leader to guide and assist people in interpreting matters of faith. I’m not entirely sure this is something to be concerned about…but that is a conversation for another day.

On a smaller scale, people look at issues such as moonsighting and the disagreement that stems from the various methodologies, and describe the array of choices in a negative light. They consider the multiple start dates as a form of disunity in local communities.

What ends up creating more disunity, is the finger-pointing, and arguments that stem from one or both parties putting each other's perspectives down. This is especially problematic considering both the Fiqh Council and ‘naked-eye’ moonsighting methods both appear to have sound bases and are all accepted by many learned figures in every community.

The truth is, people are always going to be inclined towards different interpretations about anything and everything. And this variation in interpretation is something that not only is a healthy and acceptable part of our tradition, but it is something that makes human societies interesting and dynamic! So long as we do not differ on some of the fundamentals (five pillars, oneness of God, etc), and heck, even if we do, I think it behooves us to accept the interpretive differences between people.

It seems unnatural almost to assume that billions, millions, hundreds of thousands of people or more than two people really would just be able to see eye to eye on anything! There can be consensus, without doubt, but people should always be free to align with their conscience and in doing so, should not think invalid alternative ways of doing things.

Just want to end with an insanely relevant verse from the Quran...
To you be your Way, and to me mine 109: 6

Bottom line, a little acceptance and respect for our differences can go a long way. Let’s all do our part and embrace the true Islamic spirit.