Eid Al-Fitr Saturday 22 April, MUI Urges Tomorrow Friday To Fast

Illustration of Eid Prayers (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The chairman of the MUI for Fatwa, Prof. Dr. KH Asrorun Niam Sholeh, appealed to the public to tolerate the possibility of differences in the determination of Eid al-Fitr or 1 Syawal.

He said this difference of opinion is commonplace. The determination of the beginning of Ramadan, Syawal and Zulhijak is an ijtihadiyah that opens up the possibility of differences among the fukaha.

"Stately, it is possible that there will be differences," Asrorun said in his statement, Thursday, April 20.

He further explained that the occurrence of differences of opinion on problems that are in the al-ikhtilaf trial (regional possibility of differences) must prioritize tolerance.

"Initial determination of Shawwal 1444 H, it is better to wait for the results of the determination made by the Government, which begins with an itsbat session which is attended by representatives of Islamic organizations, experts in the field of astronomy and falak, as well as considerations of MUI," he explained.

Considering that for 1444 H the hilal is at an altitude in the al-ikhtilaf majal (dispute of differences of opinion), it is certain that there will be a time difference in the determination of Eid al-Fitr.

"Therefore, there needs to be a spirit of mutual respect for these differences. Differences based on scientific considerations will give birth to understanding (interpretation); not conflict (tanazu') and hostility ('adawah). Therefore, religion is necessary with knowledge so that there is a spirit of harmony and togetherness."

Asrorun also asked the public to respect these differences. For those who use ijtihad with the benchmark of the hilal, and for those who believe and follow the view that Eid falls on Friday, they carry out Eid prayers and must not fast.

Meanwhile, for those who use ijtihad with rukyah benchmarks or rukyah herd with a height criterion of 3 degrees hilal, and for those who believe and follow the view that Eid al-Fitr falls on Saturday, the Eid prayer will be held on Saturday. While on Friday it is still mandatory to fast.

"Religiousity needs knowledge. If not, then we follow people who knowledge," he concluded.